South Coast Cambodia

Cambodia’s smallest province in the coastal south-east of the country, Kep is a charming holiday spot known for its water-side life, seafood and coastal hiking.

Kep’s former heyday was in the first half of the 1900s, as a favourite holiday spot for French colonialists, and later, wealthy Cambodians, who made it the most prestigious beach town in Cambodia. It’s had a recent resurgence in popularity among those looking for a beach-side experience that’s slightly off the main backpacker trails. With a smattering of islands off the coastline too, Kep is a place to blend water-side adventures with laidback Cambodian life.

 

A crab statue signifying the importance of seafood in Kep.
 

Many people come to Kep for some relaxing time at the beach, which centres on Kep Beach. The 1km white sandy beach is in a pretty crescent shape and is popular with those who like to relax on the beach or go for a swim. A promenade behind the beach has various dining options, with all of them serving a variety of fresh seafood and Kep’s famous crab.

 

Travellers on a boat ride to Rabbit Island.
 

Those who want to do a little activity out on the water should head to The Sailing Club at Knai Bang Chatt, where sailing courses are regularly run. It’s also possible to embark on other water sport adventures here, including kayaking, windsurfing and Hobie Cat Catamaran trips.

Kep’s islands offer a combination of tranquil beaches and rustic charm – perfect for a different look at Cambodia. Koh Tonsay (‘Rabbit Island’) is the most developed island and there’s a regular boat service here from the mainland at Kep. The beaches here are pretty and popular, with a few hammocks and chairs to enjoy lazy afternoons on. The beaches offer a slice of undeveloped island charm too, with a few wooden shacks selling simple meals of fresh seafood. This is also a place to have a wander and watch locals going about their daily lives, much of which revolves around fishing. For those feeling more energetic, it’s possible to hike around the entirety of the islands in around two to three hours. It’s also possible to hire snorkelling equipment to enjoy the colourful reefs and fish off the island. If you’re there in the evening, look out for the shining phosphorescent algae in the sea – it’s a mystical sight!

 

Beachside restaurants on Rabbit Island.
 

It’s possible to get to Kep’s other, much less developed islands from either Koh Tonsay or the mainland at Kep. Koh Pos (‘Snake Island’) is home to a traditional fishing community and a pretty white sandy beach. Koh Svay (‘Mango Island’) doesn’t have a beach, but there is a hill by the mango orchard that offers good views.

The best beach in Kep Province is said to be Angkaul Beach, around 45 minutes outside of Kep town. At around 2km long and a little off-the-beaten-track, Angkaul Beach feels like a little Cambodian secret. There’s white sand, shallow waters for paddling and a few deck chairs and parasols.

Kep National Park is a key attraction in Kep Province. Covering an area of 50 km², there are several trails and points of interest ideal for day trips from the beach. The main trail is 8km long and it’s possible to undertake it on foot, by bicycle or even via moto. Pick up breakfast and a map – including details of the park’s trails – from Led Zep Café and embark on your own adventure. As well as the main circuit there are multiple trails that lead to the interior too. The Zeppelin-inspired ‘Stairway to Heaven’ trail is a particular favourite among visitors, as it leads to the Wat Samanthi pagoda and the Sunset Rock viewpoint. Throughout the trails there are stunning views over the coastline, islands and surrounding mountain ranges.

 

Trekking through the dense jungle.
 

Kep Butterfly Garden is another place to visit in the national park. As well as a dome housing a multitude of brightly coloured butterflies, there is a nursery showing all stages of butterfly development. The butterfly garden also has benches and koi ponds in quiet corners, perfect for peace and reflection.

Many people visit Phnom Sar Sear from Kep – a series of three mountains with numerous fascinating caves. The most popular caves are Phnom Ach Prochiev and Phnom Dorei Sar, which also houses a mountain well. As well as caves, the mountain is home to nuns, monks and a Buddhist pagoda.

As a small and sleepy beach resort, the major pastimes in Kep relate to the beach, food and outdoor living. As such, this isn’t a destination for art and culture buffs, but there are a few points of interest worth noting.

One of the most visible pieces of art in Kep is the Sela Cham P'dey Statue, on a piece of land jutting out into the sea. This is a statue of a nude fisherman’s wife looking out to sea, waiting for her husband to return. It pays tribute to the strong fishing traditions of the locality.

 

White Lady Statue, said to be waiting for her husband to return.
 

There is also a fun statue of a crab to be seen on a standalone platform over the water in Kep. Well-known for its crab delicacies, this statue is a nod to the food many people come to the locality to eat.

Architecture fans should go on a stroll or take a tuk tuk ride around the town at Kep, as there are still some magnificent French colonial mansions and villas standing. Some are abandoned, but they give a feeling of the town in a former era. Pay a visit to the Don Bosco Birth House Monument too, which is a reproduction house of the location where the 19th century priest, educator and writer was born.

 

The local water reservoir.
 

For handicraft shopping, take a stroll around town and stop off at some of the shops which sell a range of goods, including local hand-made crafts. The Signature Designer Shop and Kep Souvenir are two shops that tend to sell some local crafts.

As a seaside resort for Cambodians as well as international visitors, many people choose to spend public holidays in this area. The main event is Khmer New Year, which usually falls in April each year. In Kep, people descend on the beach and the Crab Market to enjoy being outdoors and to indulge in delicious food. Unlike in cities and towns across Cambodia, most restaurants and bars are open in Kep during Khmer New Year because it’s such a popular spot to visit.

 

Making offerings to the monks.
 

Pchum Ben (‘Soul Day’ or ‘Ancestors Day’) is another public holiday when people flock to Kep. This is a 15-day Buddhist festival which usually falls in September or October each year. During this time, Cambodians pay their respects to deceased relatives and people bring food offerings to temples and pagodas. In Kep, there are a lot of people out and about enjoying the beach, the water and the seafood.

Many people also take boats out to Kep’s islands on public holidays  such as Khmer New Year, for general festivities and karaoke on the beach.

The Sea Festival takes place in a different location along Cambodia’s coastline each year, and Kep is sometimes the location for this. The event includes sporting activities, music and a range of festivities along the coastline.

Kep has captured the imagination of so many over the decades that there is even an annual Kep Expo in Phnom Penh celebrating the locality. It features an exhibition of photographs, music, films and special archives, as well as workshops on subjects such as architecture. There is also a book all about Kep for those who want a memento to take home with them.

This region of Cambodia is world famous for a variety of black pepper known as Kampot pepper, and it’s possible to visit local pepper farms in Kep and neighbouring Kampot Province to find out more. One of the pepper farms in Kep is Sothy’s Pepper Farm, where you can take a look at the farm, learn more about Kampot pepper and buy some to take home from the on-site shop.

 

Sothy’s Pepper Farm, producing the world famous Kampot Pepper.
 

The other reason people come to Kep is for the crab, and the Crab Market is the place to go to try it. The fish market is next door to a row of restaurants serving up fresh crab seasoned with Kampot pepper. Locals and visitors alike flock here as it’s like nowhere else in Cambodia.

 

A local fisherman selling crabs.
 

Many people enjoy dining by the beach in Kep for the views and to feel the coastal breeze, and there are plentiful options by Kep Beach. A little further along the coast, Coconut Beach isn’t so much a beach in Kep as there’s no sand, but it is a spot where there are a number of low-key food shacks serving delicious seafood. All restaurants in Kep serve crab as well as a range of other fish, including red snapper, gold band snapper and tuna. Since Kep is a Khmer holiday resort too, most restaurants have a range of Khmer dishes on the menu too.

 

Barbecue at the Crab Market.
 

For international flavours, Koki serves proper hand-made pizzas, while the Kep Lodge Restaurant and Bar serves Swiss specialities such as fondue, as well as Khmer cuisine.

For high end dining in Kep, Strand is a great option, with the opportunity to have a romantic meal on a dock directly over the sea. The restaurant at Veranda Natural Resort in Kep National Park is also of excellent quality, with stunning views over the surrounding natural vistas an added bonus.

For drinks in the evening, Baraka, Be Be Bar and KepaCabana are the most popular spots.

 

 

The southernmost province of Cambodia is home to pretty coastlines, good-looking riversides and an abundance of low-lying agricultural land producing original and world-famous foods, including Kampot pepper.

Kampot is the name of the main city as well as the province here. Kampot city is an entrancing place, filled with 19th century French architecture that takes you back in time, set to the back of the Elephant Mountains behind. Kampong Bay River runs right through the city too, providing another enchanting back to the city sights.

 

A colonial catholic church in Bokor.
 

A place for foodies, outdoorsy types and those who want to experience Cambodian culture away from the main cities and tourist sites, Kampot is a fascinating place to explore.

Kampot city is a place where it’s possible to spend days simply soaking up the enchanting architecture and enjoying the feeling on the streets and by the river. Get around on foot, by bicycle, by tuk tuk or by moto, depending on how much physical activity you’d like to do. The riverside promenade, old quarter and Old Market are areas to pay particular attention to. Be sure to pay a visit to the Old French Bridge, which was destroyed during the Khmer Rouge era, but is now open to people travelling on foot or on motorbikes after being repaired.

 

The Kampot Colonial Bridge.
 

Stop off at the Kampot Provincial Museum, which is located in the Old Governor’s Mansion. The museum is all about the history of the province, with various interesting artefacts and photos.

For a little spa time in the city, Banteay Srey is a women’s only spa where they also run classes such as yoga. It’s all for a good cause too, as the spa doubles as a retreat and training spot for young ladies with troubled backgrounds.

The Kampot Bay River running through the city has become a haven for water sports enthusiasts. One particularly popular option is to take an alternative tour of Kampot from stand up paddleboards, which is a truly unique way to experience the area. It’s also possible to hire kayaks from Kampot city to explore the river. A little further out of the city, The Green Cathedral is a popular kayaking route, called so for the verdant canopy you have to kayak underneath. For those who want to go on longer trips on the water, wooden longboats take groups out for a few hours at a time, while Kampot city is also a popular launch point to take boat trips to the Damrei and Bokor Mountains.

 

Kayaking on Prek Kampot.
 

Adventurers who prefer to stay on dry land enjoy heading just outside the city to Climbodia, where rock climbing, abseiling and caving is all possible at Phnom Kbal Romeas.

Just outside of Kampot city is the Hindu cave temple of Phnom Chhngok. Built in the 7th century, reaching the cave involves a climb of just over 200 stairs, but it’s more than worth it. The main chamber is home to a brick temple dedicated to Shiva, while the cave system also has depictions of elephants and symbology from Hindu teachings. And it goes without saying that the views over the countryside from this height are magical.

 

Phnom Chhngok, a Hindu cave temple.
 

There are other caves open to the public a little further outside the city too, in a locality called Phnom Sorsia. This is a place to visit Rung Damrey Saa (‘White Elephant Cave’) and another cave known for being full of bats. There’s also a modern temple to see.

The western part of Kampot Province is made up of the Preah Monivong National Park, also called the Bokor National Park, after Bokor Mountain – the highest mountain peak in the national park. This is only one of two parks that is protected by the ASEAN Heritage Parks scheme in Cambodia. One interesting place to visit in the national park is the Bokor Hill Station, which was built by French colonialists in the 1920s and was abandoned for years. Although redevelopment has now taken place to turn it into a casino, it’s still interesting to get a feel for a former era here. Nearby there is also the Povokvil Waterfalls and the Black Palace, which was the former summer palace of King Sihanouk. The national park is also home to a 29 metre high statue of Lok Yeay Mao, a mythical heroine from Cambodian Buddhism who protects travellers. There’s also a Catholic church that dates back to French colonialists in the 1920s, which is an unusual sight in Cambodia and particularly in the middle of a mountain range. There are also plenty of hiking tours and other guided outdoor adventures to embark on here.

 A local waterfall in Bokor.
 

In the city of Kampot, keen shoppers should head over to the Old Market, which is home to various shops where a treasure trove of goods are waiting to be found. For clothing, visit Dorsu, an initiative where local Cambodian women are trained in making clothes and receive a fair wage. All the fashions here are ethically made, and have a truly original take-home value. Tiny Kampot Pillows is a great place to buy hand-made pillow covers, quilts and bags, which have all been made in Kampot.

 

Dosu, a clothing shop that trains local women.
 

Art fans should pay a visit to the KAMA arts centre in Kampot city. It hosts exhibitions, occasional film screenings and art events – there’s also an eatery on-site for those who want to eat and soak up the feeling in the artistic space. Epic Arts Café is another café and art spot combination. All profits go towards running art workshops for local disabled Cambodians and the shop sells a range of art and accessories. There are also occasional performances hosted here throughout the year.
 

La Plantation is an organic Kampot pepper farm well worth a visit, but there’s a lot more going on here than pepper production. One activity available here is a traditional water buffalo journey to the villages surrounding the farm. Get an insight into local lifestyles and rural activities such as rice culture, and pay a visit to the Secret Lake. The shop at La Plantation is a place to enjoy truly local and original products, including fresh juices made from fruits grown on-site, and of course some Kampot pepper.

 

The famous Kampot Pepper.
 

For those who have an interest in performance arts, the Kampot Traditional Music School is a very special place to visit. The school teaches children who have disabilities, orphans or those from vulnerable backgrounds. The school puts on various performances throughout the year, but visitors are often invited to watch traditional dance and music training for a donation to the school too.

To experience some of the local ethnic culture, visit Cham Fishing Village on the outskirts of Kampot city. During the day, village life is quiet and dedicated to prayer and repairing fishing nets. In the evening, fishermen set out for night fishing in their colourful boats, and it’s a wonderful scene to witness.

 

A traditional fishing village.
 

Khmer New Year is Cambodia’s biggest annual celebration, which usually falls in April each year. As a popular holiday destination, many people travel to Kampot for the festivities. Some businesses will be closed as it’s a public holiday, but expect a festive atmosphere on the streets with music, dancing and traditional games.

Pchum Ben (‘Soul Day’ or ‘Ancestors Day’) is another public holiday when people flock to coastal cities such as Kampot. This is a 15-day Buddhist festival which usually falls in September or October each year. It’s a time when Cambodians pay their respects to deceased relatives and people bring food offerings to temples and pagodas. In Kampot, expect a lot of activities around temples and pagodas, as well as people out and about enjoying the public holiday.

 

A Buddhist Monk during Pchum Ben.
 

Demonstrating the importance of the burgeoning creative scene in Kampot, the Kampot Readers and Writers Festival has been an important event in the city each November for a few years now. Over four days, various events are hosted, from poetry readings and art exhibitions to creative workshops and discussion groups.

The foodstuff Kampot is most famous for is Kampot pepper. Originally grown by Chinese settlers in the province in the 13th century, production ramped up from the 19th century onwards. Nowadays, chefs from around the world value the superior quality of Kampot pepper compared to other black peppers, so the product does a roaring trade across the world. It’s possible to visit Kampot pepper growers throughout the region, but one of the best experiences is at La Plantation – an organic Kampot pepper farm. Here you can find out about traditional production methods, see it growing and buy some to take home with you. You can even join a cooking lesson to make traditional Khmer dishes using Kampot pepper as seasoning. There are also high-end restaurants on-site if you prefer someone else to do the hard work.

 

Local man working in the salt fields.
 

As well as pepper, Kampot is also well-known for producing Cambodian sea salt. On the outskirts of Kampot city, salt water is brought in from the sea to clay fields and left to evaporate into salt crystals. Walk or cycle through the area to see people hard at work on this process.

Another famed local food product is Kampot fish sauce, and the Ngov Heng Kampot Fish Sauce Factory is on the outskirts of the city. They don’t run official tours here but if they have time, they will show you around and sell you some of their product. Look out for it in the shops in Kampot city too!

You also won’t go far in Kampot without seeing or eating a durian – fruit which is grown in abundance in the local area.

 

Local woman making rice noodles.
 

Kampot city is increasingly becoming a foodie destination, with more and more original food concepts popping up all the time. As well as traditional Khmer food, there’s an increasing fusion of Asian and international flavours too.

Low key dining is always an option in the city, with street food available in various spots, including the Night Market near the Durian Roundabout. Ciao is a popular street food pizza spot.

For Khmer cuisine, pay a visit to the family-run Jack’s Place, with an extensive menu of traditional dishes. Visit Ecran Noodle Shop for your fix of traditional Cambodian noodles.

 

Street food in Kampot.
 

Rikitikitavi occupies a special riverside spot and serves a range of international flavours, as well as the locally famous Kampot pepper chicken. Greenhouse is another spot that serves inventive dishes seasoned with Kampot pepper. Baraca is an Asian and Mediterranean tapas spot with a laidback feeling. Café Espresso is popular for coffee lovers, with international snacks served alongside caffeinated beverages.

For high end international food, try Twenty Three Bistro for European flavours, or Thai Fire for delectable Thai cuisine. Fishmarket is a riverside fusion restaurant serving Khmer staples such as fish amok, along with a twist on well-known international dishes.

 

Great western food is also easy to get in Kampot.
 

There are several options for bars and nightlife in Kampot city, from bars including Sharpen the Axe, to live music venues such as Karma Traders.

For a dining spot outside Kampot city, head over to Tek Chhou Rapids in a pretty riverside location, where there are a number of food stands ideal for enjoying by the river.

Sihanoukville overview

 

This westerly coastal province of Cambodia is all about white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and island living. With a holiday atmosphere, a laidback vibe by the water and plenty of opportunity for partying, the peninsula at Sihanoukville offers a slice of Cambodia at its most relaxed.

 

While the most vibrant activity in Sihanoukville centres on the city and the islands off the coastline, Sihanoukville Province is a place to discover relatively unexplored beaches. There’s also a little bit of nature to discover further inland, with the gorgeous Elephant Mountains backing the locality – a mountain range that is home to waterfalls and other natural phenomena. National parks and swathes of greenery in the locality protect the region’s unique set of flora and fauna too.

For pure relaxation and Cambodia’s best beaches, Sihanoukville is a must-visit.

The beaches in Sihanoukville are the number one reason people visit this locality, and there are plenty to choose from.

Ochheuteal Beach is a popular choice given its huge 3.3km expanse. With white sand, pretty trees, sun loungers and a couple of dozen huts serving drinks, snacks and meals, this beach has everything you need in one place. For those who are young at heart, Buddy Land Water Park is a fun water park by the beach too. Serendipity Beach is another of Sihanoukville’s mainland beaches, although this one is much quieter and more unspoiled than other neighbouring beaches. Otres Beach is one of the larger beaches on the mainland at 4.6km long, but despite its size, it is still relatively uncommercialized. It’s possible to learn Hurricane Windsurfing here – ideal for those who are more actively minded. Sokha Beach is privately owned by a hotel and offers luxury facilities – ideal for those who enjoy the finer things in life with their beach time. There is an abundance of other beaches all waiting to be explored in Sihanoukville too, including Independence Beach, Hawaii Beach, Victory Beach, Hun Sen Beach and Ream Beach.

 

A traditional local fishing boat.
 

The next most popular reason people travel to Sihanoukville is to get out on the water and explore one of the 22 islands off the coastline.

Koh Rong is one of the most popular islands in Sihanoukville, accessible by ferry from the mainland in just 45-minutes. With white sandy beaches, azure waters and a tropical setting, this is the stuff dreams are made of. At 77 km2, this is one of the larger islands in the locality. It has an amazing 23 beaches, the most popular of which is the 4km Long Beach. Sok San Beach has high-end sun loungers and parasols, while Palm Beach is an enchanting beach with shade offered by gorgeous palm trees. The island is also home to a stunning waterfall and a handful of traditional villages. It is possible to walk or cycle along the island’s paths to explore it for yourself. It’s also possible to hire snorkelling and scuba diving gear, go fishing or go ziplining on the island. If you stay overnight, the waters of Koh Rong offer an amazing surprise too, as phosphorescent plankton light up the waters surrounding the island!

 

Typical stilt-houses lining the beach.
 

Neighbouring Koh Rong is another island called Koh Rong Sanloem. A lot smaller than Koh Rong at just 9km long and 5km wide, this is another spot where there are abundant white sandy beaches, calm turquoise waters and verdant jungles. Saracen Bay is one of the most popular spots for some beach time. At 3km long, it still has an undiscovered feeling. Mpay Bay is another popular beach, and is also home to a volunteer ecotourism project that visitors can help out at. Elsewhere on the island, there is an abundance of activities to get involved in, including snorkelling, scuba diving, fishing, jungle trekking and mountain biking.

 

Pathways are often made from sand on the coast.
 

Koh Kaong Kang is an uninhabited island ideal for a castaway feeling and enjoying the snorkelling in the surrounding waters. Koh Tuich offers similar snorkelling conditions, while Koh Koun is a favoured diving and snorkelling location – although be aware there is no beach here. Koh Bong Po-oun is home to an exclusive resort, offering a more high-class island experience.

 

Sunbathing on the wooden pier.
 

Koh Thmei is located just 300 metres off the mainland but still retains a feeling of island charm. As well as large, unspoiled beaches, the island is also home to jungle-like vegetation, two mountain peaks and a network of rivers, creeks and estuaries. There are said to be 155 species on the island alone, as well as other wildlife to look out for, including monkeys and a wetland feline known as the ‘fishing cat’. There are also two small villages – Taly Village and Chong Thmei Village. Around 1.5km away from Koh Thmei is the uninhabited Koh Seh, with a number of mangroves.

Many of Sihanoukville’s beaches and islands form part of Ream National Park, which protects both terrestrial and marine habitats over an immense area of 210 km2. From forests and hills to coral reefs and freshwater wetlands, the diversity in this area is impressive. The beaches here cover a stretch of around 10km. As well as enjoying the islands and beaches, there are plenty of other activities to take advantage of in the national park too. This includes fishing excursions – with barracuda and marlin widely caught in the local area, dolphin-spotting trips, snorkelling, scuba diving and hiking inland in the national park. Soak up the feeling in the rainforest, go wildlife spotting or embark on a ziplining adventure. For those who like the action to continue, it’s even possible to sleep under the stars in the national park in tents or hammocks.

 

Trekking along wooden pathways.
 

The Kbal Chhay waterfall is inland in Sihanoukville Province and is fed by waters from the Elephant Mountains. Only discovered in 1960, this is now a popular place to visit in a day trip from Sihanoukville city, providing some interesting contrast from coastal life. There are a number of food and drink stands nearby, and it’s also a popular picnic spot.

 

Enjoy a shower at Kbal Chhay waterfall.
 

Elsewhere in Sihanoukville, the Ou Trojak Jet river is popular for canoeing and angling activities. The Otres Marina also has kayaks and paddle boards available to rent. The Wat Leu Temple – also known as the Upper Pagoda – is found atop Mount Sihanouk, open for special celebrations throughout the year. The views over the locality awe-inspiring. Wat Krom – or the Lower Pagoda – is another temple found at the bottom of the hill in Sihanoukville city.

As Cambodia’s main seaside destination, Sihanoukville is more of a beach spot than a centre of culture and arts. That said, there is some local art and culture to look out for.

One truly worthwhile project is the Cambodian Children’s Painting Project, which takes place near Serendipity Beach. Run by an NGO, volunteers work with local children from impoverished backgrounds to create art. This art is then sold, with the proceeds going to the children and their families. Buying one of the art pieces is an original keepsake that has a long-lasting impact in the local community.

 

Local NGO that helps poor children create art.
 

The Golden Lion Monument is found on one of Sihanoukville’s roundabouts and is the most recognisable monument in the city. Constructed in 1996, locals believe it is designed to remember the violence Cambodia previously experienced, together with the innate Khmer resilience.

 

The Golden Lion monument, a memorial to the violence the country has suffered, and their resilience in facing it.
 

Sihanoukville has a few handicraft shops run by NGOs, selling local crafts that are ethical as well as truly one-of-a-kind. Starfish is one arts and crafts shop that sells wonderful  clothes and goods made of silk. Tapang is an NGO that works with street children. Goods made with fabric such as t-shirts and bags are made by these children, simultaneously helping them get out of vulnerable situations and continue their education. Another shop that celebrates local craftmanship is Bodia Nature, which sells natural bath products and herbal soaps.

 

Bodia Spa, the best in all Sihanoukville.
 

For shopping in one place, Phsar Leu Market is a popular place. Chaotic, vibrant and colourful, this market has everything you’d expect and more, from local foods to souvenirs and clothing.

With Khmer locals and a large number of international visitors every year, the majority of religious, secular and traditional holidays and festivals are celebrated to some extent in Sihanoukville.

Khmer New Year in Sihanoukville is reflective of the festivities that happen across the country. Cambodia’s biggest celebration in around April every year, this is a time when families spend together and get away to resorts such as Sihanoukville if they can. This means the pagodas such as Wat Leu Temple are buzzing, while there is a festive atmosphere on the streets, beaches and islands.

 

Typical Buddhist Temple.
 

The Water Festival (Bon Oum Touk) is a big celebration in Phnom Penh, but provincial centres such as Sihanoukville also mark the occasion in some way. This is a time when Cambodians and international visitors flock to the water from mainland Sihanoukville or the islands every November to celebrate the end of the monsoon season. Expect lots of people and late night parties in bars and on the beaches.

 

Boat racing during the water festival.
 

The Kathen Festival is celebrated every October, and is the Buddhist festival of robes. This is a time when Buddhists offer saffron robes to monks at pagodas, so expect a lot of activity around Sihanoukville’s temples at this time. There are usually other festivities to enjoy too, such as live music and colourful processions or parties.

With a small group of Christian locals and a large number of international visitors, Christmas and New Year is also a big deal in Sihanoukville. As well as thriving restaurants and bars on the mainland, a Full Moon Party takes place on the island of Koh Rong around this time every year. This is an all-night beach party that happens the night before or after a full moon, and people come from all over to celebrate at this event.

Sihanoukville is where Angkor Beer is produced. One of Cambodia’s major breweries, Angkor Beer is synonymous with travels in Cambodia, and it’s the most widely drunk beer across the whole country. The beer’s official motto is ‘Our country, our beer.’ Pay a visit to any bar or restaurant in Sihanoukville to taste this proudly local produce.

 

Angkor beer, a staple all across Cambodia.
 

Given the locality on the water, seafood is found in abundance in Sihanoukville, with crab and prawns particular specialities. A variety of ocean fish also makes its way onto menus through traditional Khmer cuisine such as fish amok and fish curry.

Ochheuteal Beach is a popular spot for evening drinks by the water, with a few bars that stay open and lively until late. Otres Corner is also popular for nightlife, with music playing throughout the day as well. One of the most popular beaches in the evening is Otres Beach and ‘Otres Market’ on Saturday nights. This involves a range of street food stalls, live music and a generally festive atmosphere until the morning.

 

Enjoying sunset at O’Chheuteal
 

Treasure Island Beach is a small beach with a large Cambodian seafood restaurant serving all the favourite local specialities. Visit the south shore of the Ou Trojak Jet river for a range of seafood restaurants – the fish is delivered by local fisherman on a daily basis. Grand Restaurant Kampuhea is widely hailed as serving the best fish amok in Sihanoukville. For other traditional Khmer food of fish and meat varieties, NYAM Khmer Restaurant is a local favourite. At Chez Paou, Khmer specials include grilled stingray with Kampot pepper and local prawns with pastis.

 

Seafood is a huge part of the coastal cuisine in Cambodia.
 

For international cuisine, try Ku Kai for Japanese, Manoha for French and Amareina for Italian. Coffee fans should pay a visit to the favourite coffee spot in the city – Espresso Kampuchea, while vegans are well-catered for in Sihanoukville at Dao of Life. For a high end meal and all-round experience, visit the Ream Yacht Club.
► Idea to discover Sihanoukville while Cambodia Adventure 10 days 9 nights

The hub of ecotourism in Cambodia, the Koh Kong Conservation Corridor centres on Koh Kong Province, with its rugged coastline and expansive jungle interior.

Incorporating part of the Cardamom Mountains and Cambodia’s highest peak of Phnom Aural at 1,813 metres, as well as Botum Sakor National Park – Cambodia’s largest national park, the Koh Kong Conservation Corridor provides a setting ripe for adventure. This is a place to hike or bike through the jungle, sleep in hammocks and try your hand at adrenalin-pumping sports.

 

Get off-the-beaten-track and feel at one with nature in the Koh Kong Conservation Corridor – it’s like nowhere else in the world.

The Cardamom Mountains stretch all the way into Thailand and are home to the largest area of rainforest in Cambodia. A sacred location to many Cambodians and with huge tracts of biodiversity, this is a special place for many people. Phnom Aural is the highest peak, but Phnom Samkos, Phnom Tumpor and Phnom Kmoch follow closely behind and are popular with mountaineers. A wide variety of animal life lives in the Cardamom Mountains, including the largest population of Asian elephant in Cambodia, the Indochinese tiger, the clouded leopard and many, many others. Large areas of the Cardamom Mountains are inaccessible, so the only way to properly explore them is to embark on a hiking tour with a knowledgeable local guide. This can be organised through the local village of Chi Phat, and it’s possible to embark on multi-day hikes, mountain biking, boating and bird-watching tours. Those who want to participate in some of the wildlife initiatives in the mountains can visit the Wildlife Alliance’s Wildlife Release Station, the release site for animals rescued from illegal trafficking. Visitors can stay overnight, go on jungle treks and help with some of the tasks to prepare animals for their release.

 

Trekking through the interior.
 

The Tatai River passes through the Cardamom Mountains and is a popular vantage point from which to explore the locality. Boat trips are available which take in the verdant jungle banks, with options for kayaking stretches of the river too. For those who want to stay a few days and feel totally immersed in nature, some of the most beautiful accommodation bungalows in Cambodia can be found along the banks of the river. The Tatai Waterfall is one of the most popular places to visit along the Tatai River. The crashing waterfall, large rock shelf and surrounding pools ideal for swimming capture the imagination of everyone who visits.

 

Taking a boat to Tatai Waterfall is a great experience.
 

Another popular waterfall in the region include Kbal Chhay Prek Koh Waterfall, which also has pools perfect for swimming nearby.

Botum Sakor National Park is one of the main reasons visitors come to the Koh Kong Conservation Corridor. Cambodia’s largest national park at 1,712.5 km2 in size occupies an idyllic position along the curve of the coastline, while the jungle interior is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna. With lowland, grassland, mangroves and swamp forests, this national park is a feast for the eyes and provides multiple habitats for its variety of inhabitants. Animals who call Botum Sakor National Park ‘home’ include the Asian elephant, Bengal slow loris, Sunda pangolin and pileated gibbon, as well as otters, Siamese crocodiles, deer, leopards and hornbills. A popular way to explore the national park’s mangroves is by boat from Andoung Tuek, while others hire motos or bicycles to cycle routes within the park. It’s also possible to go on four wheel drive tours along the dirt roads, followed by beach camping, hammock stays or island visits.

 

Dirt biking is a popular activity on Koh Rong.
 

The capital of Koh Kong Province is the town of Koh Kong. Located on the coast and alongside rivers that traverse inland, this is a popular place from which to embark on river tours. As well as the lush jungle vegetation, these tours also take in wildlife including the rare Irrawaddy Dolphin, the Finles Porpoise and the Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin. Koh Kong town is a popular base for those who want to go off and explore the surrounding area, whether it’s the islands or the jungle interior.

Not far off the coast from the town, Koh Kong Island can be visited via guided tours that depart from Koh Kong or Tatai. A military presence on the island means it’s not possible to visit any other way, but it’s well worth the trip for the idyllic beaches, hidden lagoons and verdant hills. The island is also home to a postcard-perfect fishing village called Alatang, where it’s also possible to stay overnight in homestay accommodation.

 

Peam Krasop Wildlife Sanctuary is home to many endangered species.
 

Also near Koh Kong town is the Peam Krasop Wildlife Sanctuary, where local villagers have built a mangrove walk with elevated walkways and picnic platforms overlooking the mangrove ecosystem. It’s also possible to explore the national park on a motorboat tour or by hiring a wooden boat. Various fishing villages and hidden beaches can also be explored when visiting the sanctuary via these methods of transport.

One of the best ways to get to know more about the local culture is to visit island communities, fishing villages and other small localities to be found across the Koh Kong Conservation Corridor. While homestay accommodation is available on Koh Kong Island, even further off-the-beaten-track is Koh Andet, an island on the Tatai River. Just a dozen families live on this island and it’s possible to arrange daytime visits to their homes, where they are happy to chat and enjoy refreshments together in the form of freshly picked coconuts.

 

A birds’ eye view of Koh Andet Lodge.
 

Villagers in Chi Phat also arrange homestays in and near the Cardamom Mountains, and this is an important local initiative to help locals find an alternative source of income away from illegal hunting and logging. Chi Phat is also a fascinating place to visit for the cultural artefacts to be seen in the area, including burial jars and wooden coffins.

 

Visiting Chi Phat Village.
 

The community at Trapeang Rung also runs another important project to protect the local area, which includes opportunities to go lobster or prawn fishing with locals and homestays with local families.

For some local arts and culture to take home with you, pay a visit to Dong Tong Market in Koh Kong town. This is a place where local life and craftsmanship combine – you can buy everything from fruit, vegetables and hot noodle soup, to locally made clothing and gold jewellery made in front of your eyes.

The Koh Kong Conservation Corridor is a locality made up of small towns, villages and islands, predominantly visited by those who want to get out into nature. As such, this isn’t a place where people flock to in order to celebrate festivals and events, but of course, all the main festivals in the Cambodian calendar are marked in some way.

Khmer New Year is Cambodia’s biggest holiday, which happens in around April every year. The most visible celebrations centre on Koh Kong town and Chi Phat, where locals celebrate with street food, music, dancing, colourful balloons and a generally festive atmosphere with lots of people on the streets.

 

Food offering to Buddhist monks during Pchum Ben.
 

Pchum Ben (‘Soul Day’ or ‘Ancestors Day’) is the other public holiday that means most to Cambodians throughout the year. This is a 15-day Buddhist festival that takes place in September or October each year and is an occasion when Cambodians pay their respects to deceased relatives. Expect a flurry of activity around this time in Koh Kong town and Chi Phat as locals mark the occasion in their own ways.

The Cardamom Mountains have some cardamom plantations where this spice is still grown today, although not as much as in the past. Look out for foods in local restaurants that use cardamom for an authentic taste of the area. Black, white and red pepper is also grown in abundance in these mountains and in the surrounding area, so be sure to try some of the foods on local menus that make use of this amazing resource.

 

Durian fruits at a local durian farm.
 

As well as spices, the local area is known for an abundance of other crops, with fruits including durian and jackfruit particularly popular. Don’t leave the region without trying these fresh fruits, whether it’s in a restaurant or from the market.

Those visiting the Botum Sakor National Park and other surrounding eco-attractions are often surprised to find an excellent meal at the visitors centre in Chi Phat. The daily changing menu offers just a few options for lunch and dinner, but all of the food is traditional Cambodian and locally sourced. For those heading out on a day-long adventure, the centre will also provide packed lunches.

 

Khmer barbeque.
 

Elsewhere in Chi Phat, Danatra Kitchen is a traditional Cambodian eatery serving local staples such as Khmer curry and noodle soups. Or for simple noodle and rice dishes, Chalin Restaurant is a local go-to.

In Koh Kong, a hub of the town is Fat Sam’s Restaurant and Bar. They serve a mixture of Asian and European cuisine, but people mostly come here for the sociable atmosphere of international travellers and locals. For Cambodian food in Koh Kong, there is a cluster of traditional restaurants at the roundabout. Given the proximity of the town to the water, seafood is a must-try here. This is at its best at Thmorda Crab House, which is built on stilts on the Kah Bpow River. Totally surrounded by mangroves, the location is magical. Try the crab with local pepper for a truly authentic experience.

This immense national park in Kampot Province covers an area of 1,400 km² and incorporates mountains, ruins and old French colonial settlements – making it an awe-inspiring place like nowhere else in the world.

The park is also known as Preah Monivog Bokor National Park and Phnom Bokor National Park. This is only one of two parks in Cambodia that is protected by the ASEAN Heritage Parks scheme in Cambodia. Located in the highlands of the Damrei Mountains, most of this national park is located 1,000 metres above sea level, with the highest peak being Phnom Bokor – which is 1,080 metres and the namesake of the national park as a whole. This also marks the second highest point in the whole of Cambodia. ‘Bokor’ itself is a Khmer word that means ‘hump of an ox’, which is what the mountains in the national park are said to resemble. Bokor National Park is also part of the Cardamom Mountains, which span across south west Cambodia and into Thailand.

 

Get off-the-beaten track, imagine mountain communities from previous eras and make the most of one of Asia’s most celebrated green spaces in the Bokor National Park.

The Bokor Hill Station is one of the most talked-about places to visit in Bokor National Park. Built by French colonialists in the 1920s, Bokor Hill Station refers to a collection of buildings built by the settlers, which were designed to collectively form a luxurious mountain resort. Given the height of the location, it was particularly attractive for those who wanted to escape the heat of cities such as Phnom Penh during the hottest months of the year. There was a hotel, palace and functional buildings such as a post office, which has since been demolished. The hill station was only used for less than 30 years before it was abandoned due to the Indochina War. It was used again for a short time in the 1960s before the Khmer Rouge took over the area in the 1970s. Nowadays, many of the buildings are abandoned and accessible to view by curious visitors.

 

Some buildings in the vicinity of the Bokor Hill Station have been restored or added to, and this includes the modern Thansur Sokha Hotel. This lavish resort has a wide choice of amenities, including a spa, casino and multiple bars and restaurants. For those who want to stay in luxury while exploring the impressive surroundings of Bokor National Park, this is the place to go. A nearby lake is a place where kayaking, canoeing and fishing can all be undertaken.

One of the most popular ruins in the Bokor Hill Station area is the Catholic church, which was constructed when the French colonists first arrived in the 1920s. Surrounded by verdant jungle scenery, this brick church is an unusual sight in an otherwise remote Cambodian region. As well as a remnant of times past, this spot also offers magnificent views over the national park.

The man-made features of Bokor National Park make up just a small, albeit popular, proportion of what the park has to offer. With an abundance of nature and wildlife, there are ample guided hiking opportunities available. The verdant forests here are home to a range of rare animals, from the Indian elephant, the tiger and the sun bear, to leopards, macaques and red muntjac deer. There are also hundreds of species of birds that call the jungle in Bokor National Park ‘home’, including many amazingly colourful species. A natural phenomenon popular to visit in the park is 100 Rice Fields (Veal Sre Mouy Roy), which is an unexpected geographic wonder. Although it is a field of rocks in reality, many say it looks like a series of rice paddies.

 

Bokor National Park has great trekking.
 

A visit to the Povokvil Waterfalls also makes a good hiking opportunity, which involves around a three-hour round trip on foot. It’s an uphill trek through pristine greenery, and it’s totally worth it.

The old Black Palace isn’t too far from the waterfalls either. This was the former summer palace of King Sihanouk, who ruled between 1941 and 1955. It has been abandoned for a few decades now, but is still a fascinating place to catch a glimpse of.

As well as embarking on hiking tours, many visitors to Kampot or Kep decide to hire a motorcycle or moped and have an adventurous self-guided tour of the main attractions in the national park. For those who like a little more comfort, tours in four wheel drives are also popular.

A place of history and nature, Bokor National Park isn’t a destination with an abundance of artistic attractions, but there are some interesting points of creativity to look out for.

 

Giant statue of Lok Yeay Mao, a Cambodian mythical heroine.
 

One of these is a 29 metre high statue of Lok Yeay Mao, a mythical heroine from Cambodian Buddhism. Particularly popular in Kampot Province, Lok Yeay Mao is seen as being the protector of travellers and hunters.

Wat Sampov Pram is a temple in the mountains in the national park that is worth visiting as much for its religious roots as for the amazing statues and artistic architectural features. Built by King Monivong in 1924, this is a working temple that is home to a community of monks. It’s a popular place for visitors to the area to visit, but it also attracts a steady stream of Buddhist worshippers. The monks regularly have meditation, music and chanting sessions and they welcome visitors to take part or observe. Many of these religious folk bring food offerings, which also has the effect of attracting local monkeys. Some of the worst monkey offenders are now in cages as the monks have had to limit the effect they have on religious offerings! As well as the cultural insights to be found here, the location also offers amazing views over the national park when the clouds aren’t too low.

 

Meditating amidst stunning vistas.
 

For those who want to soak up some of the spiritual feeling of Bokor National Park, there is an area on Bokor Mountain known as the Bokor Meditation Areas. This is said to be a particularly powerful location for meditating, improving energy flow and feeling healthier and happier. Some local resorts run guided meditation sessions here.

The Damrei Mountains are sacred in Khmer culture, so Bokor National Park and Wat Sampov Pram in particular are popular places to visit for Buddhist Festivals and holidays.

One of the most important of these holidays is Khmer New Year, Cambodia’s biggest annual celebration, which falls in around April each year. In Bokor National Park, many religious locals will visit the temple to receive blessings from the monks and leave offerings. 

 

Locals celebrating a Buddhist festival.
 

Pchum Ben (‘Soul Day’ or ‘Ancestors Day’) is another public holiday when local people flock to temples across the country, including Wat Sampov Pram. This is a 15-day Buddhist festival that takes place in September or October each year and is an occasion when Cambodians pay their respects to deceased relatives. Locals also bring food offerings to temples and pagodas.

Sport enthusiasts should take advantage of the annual international half marathon and bike race that takes place on Bokor Mountain. Taking place over two days in October, there are various categories of race, meaning people of all abilities can get involved. Bike races range from 10km to 51km circuits, while runs vary from a 3km fun race to a half marathon of 21km. Set in the amazing mountain scenery of Bokor National Park, this is an opportunity to test your fitness in a truly unique environment.

 

The Bokor bike-race is great for active travellers.
 

Those looking to celebrate international holidays such as Chinese New Year, Christmas and the New Year festivities at the end of December will find plenty of parties and fireworks at the hotels and resorts in Bokor National Park, such as Thansur Sokha Hotel.

This region of Cambodia is most famous for Kampot pepper, which can be grown in black, white and red varieties. This pepper has been grown in the area since the first Chinese settlers arrived in the 13th century, with even more pepper plantations popping up throughout the 19th century. Bokor National Park was one important location for this crop, although the departure of the French and the civil war hindered production for a number of decades. While Kampot pepper is still grown on a small scale in the national park, many of the pepper plantations that are available to visit are just outside the geographic area of the park.

 

Famous Kampot pepper.
 

Most of the food available to eat in Bokor National Park is in the hotels and resorts, which serve a variety of international and traditional Cambodian cuisine. Thansur Sokha Hotel has a fine dining buffet restaurant, a noodle bar and an immense daily breakfast buffet. Le Bokor Palace serves traditional French cuisine, in a nod to the colonial Past of Bokor Hill Station. All French favourites can be found on the menu, from beef tartare to foie gras. Given the proximity of the national park to the sea and the celebrated seafood that is sourced on this particular stretch of coastline, there is also an abundance of seafood on the menu that can be served flambéed at the table.

 

Typical Khmer dish.
 

Halfway up Bokor Mountain near the Lok Yeay Mao monument is a range of food and drink stands, with some traditional Khmer dishes available to buy such as noodles. A few vendors near the Povokvil Waterfalls and behind Le Bokor Palace hotel have a similar offering.