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Kamchay Dam
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The Kamchay Dam is Cambodia's first major large-scale hydroelectric project, located in Kampot Province in the southwest of the country. Built on the Kamchay River, the facility was officially inaugurated in 2011. With an installed capacity of approximately 194 megawatts, the plant contributes significantly to meeting the electricity demand in the region and the capital city, Phnom Penh. The project was implemented by the Chinese firm Sinohydro under a BOT (Build-Operate-Transfer) agreement. The construction of the dam was a milestone for Cambodia's industrial development and signaled the beginning of increased utilization of renewable energy sources. The infrastructure includes multiple turbines and an extensive transmission network that feeds energy into the national grid. Besides power generation, the dam also serves to regulate water flow, protecting surrounding areas from flooding during the monsoon season. The facility stands as a prominent example of the close economic ties between Cambodia and China in the infrastructure sector.
- Location: Cambodia
- Top sights: Parc aquatique - Entanou Slide · River Rapids - Tubing · Daung Te Resort
- Nearby: Kampot (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 27 | 24 | 72 | 134 | 248 | 380 | 444 | 373 | 426 | 253 | 125 | 48 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
Situated in the scenic Kampot region, the Kamchay Dam is a monumental infrastructural achievement, significantly contributing to Cambodia's electrical grid while permanently altering the local riverine landscape.
Visiting
The area surrounding the large reservoir has naturally become a popular recreational spot for domestic tourists, allowing visitors to drive up close to the main structure and enjoy leisure time by the artificially created lake.
Where to view it
Excellent panoramic views of the cascading water and the imposing concrete retaining wall can usually be enjoyed from dedicated viewing platforms and small local cafes positioned strategically along the access roads.
Local products
Around the reservoir's recreational areas, vendors commonly sell delicious Cambodian street food, freshly caught river fish, refreshing drinks, and locally sourced Kampot pepper products to the weekend crowds.
Active season
The site is remarkably spectacular during the height of the monsoon season when the spillways are fully opened, creating a thundering waterfall, while dry months offer calmer, more accessible recreational boating.
Nearby
A visit to this imposing hydroelectric facility easily pairs with a relaxing tour of the renowned Kampot pepper plantations, exploring nearby mysterious limestone cave temples, or enjoying a serene sunset river cruise.
Geography
Facts
- Installed capacity of 194 megawatts.
- Cambodia's first large-scale hydropower plant.
- Officially inaugurated in December 2011.
- Construction cost was approximately $280 million.
- Developed by Sinohydro on a BOT basis.
- Located in Kampot Province, southwest Cambodia.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Kamchay Dam (6)
Daung Te Resort🎡 recreation
Daung Te Resort is a popular recreational destination equipped with river-based water slides, zip lines, and floating leisure platforms.
🌐 facebook.com🕒 Mo-Su 10:00-22:00
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Kamchay Dam located?
It is located near Kampot city in the Bokor National Park.
Is the dam accessible to tourists?
Yes, the area is scenic and a popular excursion destination for locals.
Who built the dam?
It was built with financial and technical support from China.
When is the best time to visit?
At the end of the rainy season when the reservoir is full and the surroundings are lush green.
Are there activities at the reservoir?
Visitors can enjoy the view and often have picnics nearby.
Kamchay Dam: where is it located?
Kamchay Dam is located in Cambodia.
Kamchay Dam: what is there to see?
Highlights include Parc aquatique - Entanou Slide, River Rapids - Tubing, Daung Te Resort.
Kamchay Dam: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Kamchay Dam: why is it worth visiting?
The Kamchay Dam is Cambodia's first major large-scale hydroelectric project, located in Kampot Province in the southwest of the country.
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