An elderly woman refills a glass bottle in a bustling Kampot street market.

Shopping in Kampot and Kep: A Comprehensive Guide to Markets, Malls, and Artisan Gems

Kampot and Kep, two picturesque towns in southern Cambodia, are brimming with vibrant markets, charming artisan boutiques, and specialty products that reflect the region’s unique cultural heritage.

Whether you’re seeking fresh seafood, handmade crafts, or globally renowned Kampot pepper, these towns offer a memorable shopping experience. This guide dives deep into the best shopping spots and tips to help you explore these gems.


Local Markets

Vibrant street scene in Phnom Penh market filled with people and motorbikes, capturing local life.

Kampot Markets

Psar Samaki (Kampot Market)

The main market in Kampot bustling with activity, offering everything from fresh produce to textiles.

  • Location: Street 714 and 729, Kampot.
  • Highlights:
    • Fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood.
    • Vendors selling handcrafted items like woven baskets and textiles.
    • A vibrant cultural experience perfect for early risers.
  • Opening Hours: Daily from dawn until dusk.

Kampot Old Market

A revitalized area with a mix of retail shops, artisan products, and dining options.

  • Location: Near the riverside in Kampot.
  • Highlights:
    • Unique souvenirs like handmade jewelry and pottery.
    • Quaint cafés and bars perfect for post-shopping relaxation.
  • Opening Hours: Varies by vendor.

Bokor Night Market

A lively market that comes alive after sunset, showcasing street food and goods.

  • Location: Near Durian Circle, Kampot.
  • Highlights:
    • Sample Cambodian street food such as lok lak and grilled skewers.
    • Affordable clothes and local crafts.
  • Opening Hours: Evening until around 9:30 PM.

Kep Markets

Smiling Woman Selling Food on a Street

Kep Crab Market

  • Description: Famous for its fresh seafood, particularly blue swimmer crabs.
  • Location: Near Kep Beach.
  • Highlights:
    • Buy live crabs directly from fishermen and have them cooked on-site.
    • Small stalls selling local snacks, spices, and Kampot pepper.
  • Opening Hours: Daily from 5 AM until 5 PM.

Kep Market

A traditional market offering fresh produce, meats, and local handicrafts.

  • Location: Near Kep town center.
  • Highlights:
    • A quieter atmosphere compared to the crab market.
    • Great for finding locally grown fruits and vegetables.

Artisan Shops and Boutiques

Vibrant hanging bells and ornaments in a pottery market stall, showcasing cultural artistry.

Kampot Artisan Shops

Dorsu

A sustainable clothing brand producing high-quality garments locally.

  • Location: 35 Eo Old Market Street, Kampot.
  • Highlights:
    • Ethically made fashion pieces.
    • Custom tailoring available.
  • Website: Dorsu

Epic Creations

A shop operated by Epic Arts NGO showcasing handmade items.

  • Location: Street 724, Kampot.
  • Highlights:
    • Supports local artisans with disabilities.
    • Unique souvenirs like toys and clothing.

Tiny Kampot Pillows

A quirky boutique offering handmade pillows, scarves, and more.

  • Location: Near 2000 Roundabout, Kampot.
  • Highlights:
    • Bright, colorful designs using traditional Khmer textiles.

Kep Artisan Shops

Detailed black and white photo of the Bayon Temple stone faces in Angkor, Cambodia

Kep Artisan Village

A collective of shops featuring handmade crafts.

  • Location: Near Kep National Park.
  • Highlights:
    • Pottery, textiles, and paintings made by local artists.
    • Ideal for finding one-of-a-kind gifts.

Specialty Products to Look For

kampot pepper

Kampot Pepper

Known as one of the finest peppers in the world, Kampot pepper is a must-buy for food enthusiasts.

  • Where to Buy:
    • Directly from farms like La Plantation, Bo Tree, or Flying Dog Farm.
    • Markets such as Psar Samaki.
  • Highlights:
    • Available in black, red, and white varieties.
    • Prices range from $30 to $45 per kilo.
  • Website: La Plantation

Local Handicrafts

From woven baskets to hand-painted ceramics, local crafts embody Cambodian traditions.

  • Where to Find:
    • Artisan shops and markets in both Kampot and Kep.
    • Supports local communities by purchasing directly from craftsmen.

Tips for Shopping in Kampot and Kep

  • Bargain Respectfully: Negotiation is part of the market culture, but always remain polite.
  • Bring Cash: Many small vendors don’t accept credit cards.
  • Shop Early: Morning markets are livelier and offer the freshest produce.
  • Support Local: Opt for locally made items over mass-produced goods to support the local economy.

Conclusion

Shopping in Kampot and Kep offers a blend of cultural immersion and retail therapy. From bustling markets and ethical fashion to the world-famous Kampot pepper, these towns provide unforgettable experiences for every shopper.

Supporting local businesses not only enhances your travel experience but also helps sustain the communities that make these towns so unique.


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