By Chhum Chantha CAMBODIANESS Wed, March 27, 2024

Vegetables, including climbing wattle, morning glory, beans, Chinese kale and onions are grown by villiager. Photo: Battambang Provincial Department of Tourism

PHNOM PENH – In addition to farming on the fields, residents in Battambang’s Chheuteal commune along the Sangke River use the riverbanks to grow short-term crops, creating lush green scenery which attracts tourists while setting an example for others.

The commune is one of eight in Banan district. Residents of Ksach Poy and Kampong Chhlorng villages use the area to grow vegetables, including climbing wattle, morning glory, beans, Chinese kale and onions.

Director of the Battambang Provincial Department of Tourism Ouch Oum Phinissara said that before arriving at the Banan temple, tourists often visit the riverbank crops crossing a swing bridge. They take pictures and understand the fishing activities and livelihood of the people in the commune.

The green scenery along the river offers tourists a new experience, a refreshing feeling and good memories. 

“Some tourists passing through this place are interested in the beauty of crops and explore the area. They think it is good that Cambodians are creative to use the river to grow vegetables for the benefit of life and scenery to engage tourists,” he said.

Phinissara said cultivation along the river could be a good example for other locations with similar topography or geography. 

If the Chheuteal commune inspires other people living along the Sangke River to follow suit, Phinissara said that it will benefit farmers and the tourism sector in Battambang to be more diverse.

“These crops are a major attraction,” said Phinissara.

People in the commune usually grow vegetables in the dry season because the water level is low and clear enough to grow in the rich fertilized soil.

Battambang, a rice bowl of Cambodia, is one the main tourist destination with hundreds-year-old temples, historic buildings and pagodas beside a river in a gorgeous setting. Tourists visit the province to gain an understanding of the distinctive lives, culture and heritage of local people. 

https://cambodianess.com/article/battambangs-riverbank-crops-charm-tourists

SOURCE: CAMBODIANESS, Cambodia, Wed, March 27, 2024

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