Kratie: Rich in Culture, History, and Natural Heritage

Kratié Province is situated in the Northeastern Plateau Region of Cambodia. It is abundant in cultural, historical, and natural heritage, attracting both national and international visitors for tourism and research. They come to see, understand, and experience the authentic aspects of these treasures firsthand.

This province borders Stung Treng to the north, Mondulkiri to the east, Kampong Thom and Kampong Cham to the west, and Tboung Khmum and Vietnam to the south.

Kratié was once the ancient capital of Sambhupura during the Chenla period. This capital was located in Sambour District. 
It should be noted that Kratié also possesses several ancient temples built in the 8th century. These include:

• Banteay Siam Temple: Located in the Prey Lang area, Trapaing Ta Village is located in Boeng Char Commune, Sambour District, Kratié Province. This temple was constructed of laterite during the reign of three kings at Sambhupura (Queen Nṛpatendradevī, Queen Jyeṣṭhāryā, and Queen Jayendrabhā).

• Preah Theat Khvan Pir Temple: Located in Village 105, Thmei commune, Chet Borei district, Kratié Province.

• The Hundred-Pillared Preah Vihear (Wat Sasar Muoy Roy): Built in the 16th century. This temple is linked to the Khmer legend of Krapeu Nen Thnon (Crocodile Nen Thon). 

• Kratié also features ancient Khmer houses and French colonial-style buildings, some of which remain standing to this day.

Moreover, the Kampi Dolphin site in Kratié is also known as the home of many dolphins. It attracts both national and international tourists, as well as researchers and scientists, who visit to observe and study the Mekong River dolphins, a rare and endangered species with only a few remaining in the world.

According to the elders living in the area, it is further known that in the past, in Kratié, many indigenous ethnic minorities lived there. They engaged in various trading activities across the Northeast region, exchanging goods back and forth primarily via the Kampong Chamlang Krabey (Buffalo Ferry Port). The Stieng people called this place Krabey Kampong Krache. Over time, the name evolved into "Kratié," which remains its name to this day.

All of this clearly demonstrates that Kratié indeed possesses significant cultural and historical heritage for national and international students and researchers to explore and understand in greater depth.