Phnom Penh offers a wealth of sustainable travel experiences that allow visitors to connect authentically with Cambodian culture while supporting local communities. From cycling through vibrant neighbourhoods and exploring traditional handicraft villages like Koh Dach and Koh Chen, to visiting sustainable farms and bustling local markets, travellers can witness local craftsmanship, taste authentic cuisine, and directly contribute to the livelihoods of artisans, vendors, and small business owners.
Just outside Phnom Penh, a network of handicraft villages preserves Cambodia’s rich tradition of handmade artistry. Skilled artisans, using techniques passed down through generations, produce unique goods that reflect the country's cultural heritage. One of the most well-known of these is Koh Dach, an island village famed for its silk weaving. Visitors can watch artisans work on traditional looms to create intricate silk scarves and textiles—a tradition still alive thanks to strong community ties and generational knowledge.
A short journey away, Koh Chen offers a different but equally impressive craft tradition. Known for its silver and clay work, the village is home to artisans who produce beautifully engraved bowls, trays, and boxes, each piece reflecting a high level of detail and care.
To explore the revival of Cambodia’s weaving heritage, visit the Cambodian Weaving Village in Tram Kak district, Takeo province. Unlike Koh Dach and Koh Chen, which have long-standing traditions, this village represents a modern effort to bring weaving back to a region once central to cotton production. Founded in 2013 by UK entrepreneur Paul Gill and local resident Siphen Meas, the village—along with its sister NGO, The Weavers Project—aims to fight poverty through sustainable employment. Their handwoven textiles are now featured by ethical Cambodian fashion labels bridging traditional skills with contemporary design.
One of the most immersive ways to experience a destination is on two wheels. A cycling tour in and around Phnom Penh offers a unique perspective on the city’s diverse landscapes and cultures. Start with a Phnom Penh City Cycling Tour, where you’ll ride through backroads, narrow alleyways, and local neighborhoods to see the city’s contrasts—from bustling urban life to quiet community spaces. Along the way, visit fishing villages, sample unique street foods, and learn about Phnom Penh’s complex history. For a more extensive adventure, try the Oudong Mountain and Floating Village Cycle Tour. This full-day trip combines scenic cycling with cultural exploration. Pedal your way to Oudong, Cambodia’s former royal capital, explore the sacred mountain, then continue to a floating village on the Tonle Sap Lake. Alternatively, opt for the Mekong River Island Cycling Tour, which takes you off the beaten path to explore the peaceful islands of the Mekong River. Ride through farmland, visit local temples, stop by silk weaving workshops, and enjoy a traditional lunch with a local family—an experience that offers a genuine taste of rural Cambodian life. Whether you’re exploring the capital or venturing into the countryside, cycling tours provide an engaging and authentic way to connect with Cambodia.
Community-based tourism in Phnom Penh gives travellers the chance to connect with local life while supporting sustainable development. Stay with Khmer families through homestays, enjoy authentic cuisine, and explore daily life through guided cultural tours. Visitors can also take part in traditional craft workshops, dine at community-run restaurants, or volunteer with local development projects. It’s a meaningful way to experience Cambodia—while giving back to the communities you visit.
A meaningful way to experience local life is through a visit to one of the sustainable farms near Phnom Penh. These projects combine environmental responsibility with community empowerment, offering immersive, educational experiences. Farmhouse Smiling Gecko, about 70 km north of the city, is a social enterprise promoting sustainable agriculture and education. Visitors can join two-day trips that includes farm tours and a stay at their guesthouse. In Phnom Penh, the Khmer Organic Cooperative partners with local farmers to promote organic practices. They offer farm tours and a farm-to-table restaurant serving fresh, locally grown produce. You can also book countryside tours that include visits to organic farms, offering a deeper look into rural Cambodian life. Other notable options include Green Shoots Foundation, which runs an off-grid training farm using solar power and biogas, and La Plantation in Kampot, a model of sustainable spice farming and agro-tourism.
Exploring local markets in Phnom Penh is a powerful way to support the community by directly benefiting vendors, artisans, and small business owners. Purchasing handmade crafts, textiles, souvenirs, or local produce not only sustains their livelihoods but also boosts Cambodia’s economy—particularly important since textiles and tourism are key industries. This exchange helps keep money circulating within the community, fostering economic growth, job creation, and the preservation of Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage. Central Market (Phsar Thmey), housed in an iconic Art Deco building, is a vibrant spot to experience local culture and discover unique finds. Meanwhile, Phsar Chas (Old Market) offers a glimpse into daily life with its array of local shops and everyday essentials.
