While the global popularity of yoga and meditation has long hit Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, with classes in the ancient Indian art exploding in recent years, they have now found their way to the unlikely surroundings of rural Kampong Cham province.
Nestled in the province’s serene countryside near the banks of the Mekong river, 21km north of Kampong Cham city, Hanchey Bamboo Resort offers a unique opportunity to experience among Cambodia’s most authentic meditation and yoga retreats.
Hanchey Bamboo Resort’s general manager Chorn Kim Piseth, who was a monk for several years himself, said the resort is defined by its holistic approach to physical, mental and spiritual health, also emphasising its positive role in the local community.
“The yoga and meditation retreat is part of our package offering our guests peace and quiet in the countryside."
“Our guests are often surprised by the positive social and environmental impact the resort has in the local community. We work in collaboration with Buddhism for Social Development Action (BSDA), a local NGO dedicated to giving poor and vulnerable children a home, an education and internship opportunities to support them in entering the working world,” he said.
Piseth adds that the resort’s remote location is perfect for yoga and meditation, providing guests ample opportunity to immerse themselves in the surrounding nature.
“The yoga and meditation retreat at Hanchey Bamboo Resort offers both local and international guests an opportunity to unwind, rest and connect more with their mind and body. Three days enjoying yoga and meditation in nature, surrounded by magnificent views,” he said.
One of the resort’s yoga instructors, Karolina Anna Koziara, spoke of her recent experience leading a retreat in November.
“It’s a pure joy to see how yoga makes others smile. The retreat at Hanchey Bamboo Resort offers motivation talks, yoga and meditation for disadvantaged kids from the region."
“I feel blessed being able to share my yoga knowledge and support local NGO BSDA. The laughs I had with kids and teachers during class are absolutely priceless. It has definitely been an experience to remember,” she said.
The three-day yoga and meditation retreat program was launched three months ago. Prices per-person are $100 for a bungalow and $60 for a dormitory, and includes vegan meals and drinks.
“All the meals during the retreat are colourful and delicious dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients. The meals are prepared according to a vegetarian/vegan diet,” Piseth said.
The resort is located near Hanchey Mountain Range in Stoeung Trong district’s Prek Preah Ang village in Kampong Cham province. Visit their website www.bambooresort.org for more information, or contact them via phone at 0762542440.
