Kampong Chhang means 'land of pots'. Due to its location near the Tonle Sap lake, Kampong Chnang's population is predominantly involved in fishery and rice plantation.
Kampong Chnang is an easygoing river port town that is worth visiting for a couple of hours, and there some nice sights to check out, including the old quarter. Climb Phnom Dai Mea, take a river cruise, or explore the colonial buildings while you are here.
For many years, the small town of Pursat was not much else than a stop along the road to refill with gasoline or have some food. In recent years this has significantly changed due to rapid development.
The riverfront was turned into a pleasant park, roads were widened and sealed and many old colonial buildings were renovated. Several hotels and restaurants were set up, and access to several attractions nearby was improved.
It is also the base to visit the beautiful Chrok Laeang waterfall and most important access point for the northern Cardamom mountains.