While cycling options in Phnom Penh itself are limited, the surrounding countryside provides stellar opportunities for rural bike rides. Across the Mekong in Kandal’s Svay Chroum district, the urban sprawl gives way to idyllic farms and country roads just a stone’s throw away from the city. Cyclists can start north at the Svay Chroum ferry opposite Chroy Changvar or the Arey Ksat landing to the south opposite NagaWorld casino, and cycle a loop around the countryside before heading home. Hot, thirsty cyclists can even take a dip in the pool at SMango Resort in Prek Bongkong village just two kilometres north of the Svay Chroum ferry. 

Cyclists on a mission can head out north on National Highway 5 to Oudong Mountain for some uphill endurance. At 45 kilometres from Phnom Penh, it may be prudent to take a tuk-tuk away from the choppiness of Phnom Penh’s traffic chaos and embark on the ride at the mountain’s base. The ride up to the stupa, which supposedly holds ash of the Buddha, is a steep couple kilometres. The sunset vistas over the Cambodian countryside are awe-inspiring, but it would be safest to have your driver meet you at the summit and drive back to town instead of trying to take on the road at night.

Cyclists pedal for a green revolution

Horizons broadened by cycling