Kampot’s administration is building a palm-shaped structure where visitors can climb for photos and a Khmer-style food street to increase tourism appeal. Both projects are scheduled for completion before the approaching Khmer New Year.
The report said urban infrastructure and new tourism attractions had brought growing visitor numbers, contributing to livelihoods and local economic activity.
Governor Mao Thonin inspected the two projects in Kampot city on March 16, 2026, urging faster construction to meet the New Year target.
He said the supporting-palm design would let visitors enjoy sunsets, the Bokor mountains and the Kampong Bay river landscape and take photographs.
The structure is on the Kampong Bay river’s sandy waterfront opposite the provincial referral hospital, between the old bridge, or Rainbow Bridge, and the new stone bridge, or Kampong Bay Bridge. It is about 12 metres high, with stairs on both sides and safety railings. Construction was about 60% complete.
The food street, in the fabric-market park in central Kampot, was about 90% complete. It uses Khmer architectural styles and includes drainage and lighting for vendors.
The governor said food-street vendors must wear traditional Khmer clothing to showcase national culture to international visitors and strengthen the attraction.
He also urged city authorities to inspect trading regularly, ensure vendors followed provincial guidance and maintain clean, hygienic surroundings. By: Pai Sokhim
