Uniworld Vietnam & Cambodia Cruise: Wat Hanchey
Uniworld Vietnam & Cambodia Cruise: Wat Hanchey
DAY 9: INCLUDED MORNING EXCURSION OF WAT HANCHEY IN CAMBODIA
We woke early enough to witness another spectacular sunrise on the Mekong River just as Uniworld River Orchid departed Kampong Cham. This morning we cruised a short distance (90-minutes) to Wat Hanchey for an included morning walking tour and Buddhist water blessing.
Uniworld River Orchid Along The Mekong River Near Wat Hanchey in Cambodia
At 8:30 AM our groups departed River Orchid and set off on foot up the steep river bank steps and strolled towards the nearby village. Children that had come to join our groups, held hands with us while practicing their English.
Cambodian Village Kids Join Our Walking Excursion
First we visited a local home and were able to enter the humble abode on stilts with our guide, Kinal.
Visiting a local home near Wat Hanchey, Cambodia
Next it was time for the uphill walk (a few passengers took the minibus ride up) to the pagoda at Wat Hanchey – dating back to the 8th century.
Visiting Wat Hanchey in Cambodia with Uniworld River Cruises
After Kinal explained what would happen during the water blessing we entered the temple and seated ourselves on the floor.
Traditional Water Blessing in Cambodia
The monks giving the traditional water blessing chanted and sprinkled water over our group before tying a bright red string bracelet on our wrists.
Jill and Viv at Wat Hanchey Cambodian Temple
Note: On days when visiting temples, we were expected to have knees and shoulders covered. Plus, shoes and hats needed to be removed when entering the temple.
Jill and Cambodian Friends
After the ceremony, passengers had some time to enjoy the splendid view from the top of the hill of the Mekong River below. Then it was time to walk back to River Orchid for lunch and the short cruise back to Kampong Cham, where the ship would remain for the rest of our cruise time.
Next… Phnom Pros, Phnom Srei and Wat Nokor in Cambodia
Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City | Day 2: Cu Chi Tunnels | Day 3: Saigon City Tour | Day 3: Embarkation | Day 4: Cai Be | Day 4: Sa Dec | Day 5: Chau Doc | Day 6: Phnom Penh | Day 6: Phnom Penh Orphanage Dancers | Day 7: Killing Fields and S-21 Prison | Day 8: Prek Bongkong Khmer Silk Village |
