Take a peek at the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary

Cambodia, also known as the Land of the Khmers is a hidden gem among the South East Asian countries. The world’s largest temple, Angkor Wat stands tall in the beautiful region of Siem Reap. The country is also blessed with having the largest freshwater lake, Tonle Sap, in South East Asia with some scenic river cruises to offer. The Cambodians swear by Buddhism and their ardent devotion is evident in the culture witnessed at the temples. The Cambodian cuisine and nightlife is also something you would definitely not want to miss! But what’s so special apart from all this anyways? Well, read on and unravel the other treasures that the country of Cambodia holds.

While the region is extensively known for its temples, you would be surprised to know that migratory birds fly from the North to the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary at nature’s haven, Siem Reap. Prek Toal Bird sanctuary near Tonle Sap acts as the perfect thriving spot for the birds. With large acres of marshy land at the sanctuary, varieties of different birds from the world are welcomed into the sanctuary.

For all those of you who are bird-watching enthusiasts, come visit the Tonle Sap biosphere reserve and the Prek Toal Bird sanctuary. This isn’t a phenomenon that occurs all through the year so be fortunate to witness this great occurrence as the winter season approaches. The wide variety of birds that meets your eye like the Pelicans, Black-headed Ibis, Woodpeckers, Oriental Darter, Painted or Milky Stork will leave you awestruck. As this season is part of the breeding period of the birds, you will get to witness nature at it’s best.

Touring around the Tonle Sap

The Tonle Sap reserve has a floating village and touring around this region on a boat or a ferry whilst listening to the sweet chirping of the birds is an experience that leaves you exhilarated. Although the best time to visit the Prek Toal Bird sanctuary is debatable, the post monsoonal season, slightly approaching spring is when the population of our migratory pals will be at its peak.

How to reach the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary

In most cases, pick up and drop facilities are offered to visitors of the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary from their hotels itself. But if you are among the adventurous lot who likes to self explore, you could take a tuk-tuk ride or a taxi to the sanctuary. A ferry transfer is also possible from a particular cruise point which can be given on request.

Timings and entry fee

The Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary is open from 6:00 am in the morning till 6:00 pm in the evening. The approximate entrance fee can be anywhere between INR 2,000 to INR 3,000. This cost will be inclusive of a guide who will accompany you into the sanctuary and also the ferry cost if you choose to take it up. Try and bird-watch during sunrise or the sunset as that’s the exact time the winged creatures go about their daily activities or wrap up their work for the day.

Intrigued to visit this unique Paradise on earth? Well, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and book that Cambodia holiday package and make sure you add the Prek Toal Bird sanctuary as a must-do activity. Need help in planning your Cambodia holiday? Fear not, we at Pickyourtrail cannot wait to help in planning your vacation with great detail. Log onto pickyourtrail.com for further details. Until then, start planning and happy travelling!