Takeo province
Wedged between Kandal, Kompong Spue and Kampot provinces and Vietnam, Takeo (pronounced Ta-cow) is a small low-land province whose provincial capital is within easy day-trip distance of Phnom Penh.
Referred to by Khmers as the "Cradle of Khmer civilisation" the region covered by Takeo Province, particularly around the town of Angkor Borei has developed into a veritable treasure trove of archeological research. The earliest example of Khmer script was unearthed here (dated to AD 611, well before the commencement of the sites around Angkor) and some archeologists involved in excavations at Angkor Borei believe that the town that once surrounded modern-day Angkor Borei was one of the first capitals of the Funan Empire.
For the non-archeologically-inclined visitor, Takeo province is home to a selection of minor attractions. The sleepy same-named provincial capital is a quaint enough spot for an overnight stay and is the launching point for boat trips to both Phnom Da and Angkor Borei -- the two highlights of a visit to Takeo province. Further afield, towards the border with Kampot province are hillside scenery, a waterfall, a land crossing with Vietnam (that is open to foreign visitors) and a lot more water.
Dry and dusty in the dry season, much of Takeo is submerged once the rains come, making this by far the best time to visit. In the monsoon season, the provincial capital, with its stony promenade lined by palm trees, has an almost seaside feel to it.
