Thala Boravit Travel Guide

Although now little more than a dusty backwater village, Thala Boravit was an important trading town during the Chenla period. The town is located on the river route that connects the ancient city of Champasak and the holy temple of Wat Phu with the southern part of the Chenla Empire.

This is a good place to visit for those who have a little time on their hands as there are a number of ruined houses here. Wandering through the dusty streets, it is difficult to picture Thala Boravit in its former glory although visitors will find a number of interesting shop houses and storage buildings to explore here.

Thala Boravit is located on the west bank of the Mekong River, and the best way to reach the town is by taking a boat across the river from Stung Treng. Visitors can either choose to wait until the public boat fills up, or charter an outboard, which costs around US$5.

After disembarking from the boat, visitors will find themselves at the start of the village. Nearby, a path leads through the jungle to Kompong Thom and Tbeng Meanchey, and this is an interesting place for those who enjoy hiking and trekking to explore.

In brief

What is it? The former residence of the kings of Thailand.


Opening hours: 24 hours, daily.


Entrance fees: no entry charge.

Where: Stung Treng district in the enchanting north of Cambodia.

How to get there: take a boat ride from Stung Treng (30 minutes), which has a small airport that receives flights from Phnom Penh (1 hour).