Kampot: The Ultimate Travel Guide to Cambodia’s Most Charming Town

Kampot is not as noisy and bustling as Phnom Penh or as rich in heritage as Siem Reap. It has a quiet and poetic beauty. So, what is attractive and interesting about this city? Let’s follow Anvui Travel to explore this tourist destination!

1. OVERVIEW: KAMPOT AT A GLANCE

Kampot, a charming town in southern Cambodia, is steeped in history and natural beauty. Nestled along the banks of the Preaek Tuek Chhu River and surrounded by the lush greenery of the Elephant Mountains, Kampot offers a serene escape from the bustling cities. The town is located approximately 150 kilometers southwest of Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, and is easily accessible by road and river.

Historically, Kampot has been a significant port town since the pre-colonial era, playing a crucial role in trade and commerce. During the French colonial period in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Kampot flourished as an administrative and commercial center. The French influence is still evident in the town’s architecture, with well-preserved colonial buildings adding to its nostalgic charm.

One of Kampot’s most notable historical landmarks is the Kampot Pepper plantations. Kampot Pepper, renowned for its exceptional quality, has been cultivated in the region for centuries and was highly prized by French chefs. The plantations continue to thrive today, attracting visitors who are keen to learn about its cultivation and taste the world-famous pepper.

In addition to its historical significance, Kampot is a gateway to the natural wonders of the region. The nearby Bokor National Park, established in 1993, is home to diverse wildlife and the historic Bokor Hill Station, a former French colonial resort. The park offers stunning views, waterfalls, and opportunities for trekking, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.

Kampot’s blend of historical heritage and natural beauty makes it a unique and captivating destination. Whether exploring the town’s colonial past or enjoying the tranquility of its riverside setting, Kampot provides a rich cultural experience and a peaceful retreat.

2. WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TRAVEL TO KAMPOT?

The peak season in Kampot is from December to February when tourists from all over the world flock here to enjoy the wonderful warm climate in Kampot. This is also the season when Kampot is at its most beautiful, with little rain and extremely fresh air. Suitable for exploring and sightseeing activities.

3. TRANSPORTATION

Getting to Kampot is quite convenient with several transportation options available:

By Train: Trains run daily from Phnom Penh to Kampot, departing at 3 PM and 7 AM. The journey takes about 5-7 hours and costs around $81. You can also transport your car, motorcycle, or bicycle on the train for an additional fee.
By Bus: Buses and mini-vans leave Phnom Penh starting at 8 AM and run until 5:30 PM. The trip takes approximately 2.5 hours and costs around $101. Buses stop at their own offices in downtown Kampot, and you can get off ahead of the last stop if you prefer.
By Car: You can hire a private taxi for door-to-door service from Phnom Penh to Kampot. A whole car costs about $50, while a shared taxi costs around $10 per person. From Kep, it’s a short 30-minute ride, and you can rent motorcycles for about $5 a day.
By Boat: If you’re coming from nearby islands or coastal areas, ferries and boats are available.
By Air: While there is no airport in Kampot, you can fly to Sihanoukville International Airport and then take a bus or taxi to Kampot, which is about a 3-4 hour drive.

Each option offers a unique travel experience, so you can choose the one that best suits your preferences and schedule.

4. POPULAR PLACES IN KAMPOT

4.1. Bokor National Park

Bokor National Park, also known as Preah Monivong Bokor National Park, is a stunning natural reserve located in the Damrei Mountains near Kampot, Cambodia. Established as a national park in 1993, it covers an area of 1,400 square kilometers and is one of only two ASEAN Heritage Parks in Cambodia. The park sits at an elevation of over 1,000 meters above sea level, offering a cooler climate and breathtaking views.

Bokor Mountain

One of the main attractions in Bokor National Park is the Bokor Hill Station, a collection of French colonial buildings constructed in the 1920s as a mountain resort. The Hill Station includes an abandoned church, a palace, and a casino, which has since been transformed into the luxurious Thansur Bokor Highland Resort. Visitors can explore the ruins and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and deer. There are several waterfalls, such as Popokvil Waterfall, and hiking trails that offer opportunities for trekking and nature walks. The park’s rich biodiversity and historical significance make it a popular destination for tourists and nature enthusiasts alike.

To reach Bokor National Park, travelers can take a scenic drive from Kampot, which takes about an hour. The road to the park is well-maintained and offers stunning views of the countryside. Once at the top, visitors can explore the various attractions and enjoy the cool mountain air.

4.2. Teuk Chhou Stream

Teuk Chhou Stream is a great place to unwind and connect with nature. Have you visited this spot before? Teuk Chhou Stream, located about 8 kilometers north of Kampot town in Cambodia, is a serene and picturesque spot known for its cool, clear waters flowing over large rocks. This tranquil stream is a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Teuk Chhou Stream

Activities at Teuk Chhou Stream

Swimming and Bathing: The cool, clear waters make it an ideal spot for a refreshing swim or a relaxing bath.
Picnicking: The area is dotted with thatched huts and picnic platforms, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely picnic. You can enjoy local fruits like durian, mangosteen, and rambutan while taking in the soothing sounds of flowing water.
Kayaking: For those who enjoy water activities, kayaking down the gentle rapids of Teuk Chhou Stream offers a tranquil experience surrounded by lush greenery.
Riverside Relaxation: Simply lounging by the stream, enjoying the cool river breeze, and watching the local wildlife can be a wonderfully calming experience.
Exploring Nearby Attractions: Not far from Teuk Chhou Stream is a small zoo and a plantation where you can see various animals and learn about local fruit cultivation.

4.3. Explore Old Market Street

Kampot has a vibrant night market that’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the local culture and cuisine. The market is open every night and is located right downtown, off the Durian Circle. Here’s what you can expect:

Local Foods: The night market offers a wide range of traditional Khmer dishes, from spicy fish amok to sweet coconut desserts. You can also sample various street foods, including grilled meats, fresh fruits, and vegetables.
Shopping: The market is a shopper’s paradise, with vendors selling everything from handicrafts, souvenirs, and clothing to household items and local specialties like Kampot pepper. Don’t be afraid to haggle – it’s all part of the fun!
Entertainment: Enjoy live music, traditional dance performances, and other entertainment options throughout the night. The lively atmosphere is perfect for a fun evening out.
Activities: There are also activities like yoga classes, massage services, and even opportunities to learn some basic Khmer language skills.
Rides and Games: For families, there are rides and games available, making it a great spot for kids as well.

The night market is easily accessible by foot or bicycle, and you can also take a tuk-tuk or taxi from nearby hotels or guesthouses. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy a relaxing evening.

4.4. The Kampot Salt Fields

There is a fascinating and picturesque destination located near the town of Kampot in southern Cambodia. The salt fields are located on the road from Kampot to Kep, just outside of town. They are easily accessible by motorbike or car, and the journey offers beautiful countryside views.

The Kampot Salt Fields

These salt fields are known for producing some of the world’s finest sea salt using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations.

The process begins in December when seawater is allowed to flow into the salt fields. As the water evaporates under the sun, it leaves behind salt crystals. Workers then collect the raw salt by raking it into small mounds and transferring it to drying sheds. Once dried, the salt is cleaned, iodine is added, and it is packaged for distribution throughout Cambodia.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the salt fields to learn about the production process and the history of salt farming in the region. You can also enjoy the scenic views of the vast salt pans shimmering under the sun and take photos of the unique landscape.

5. DELICIOUS DISHES IN KAMPOT

Kampot has an extremely unique culinary culture with delicious traditional dishes. Some dishes you must try include:

Khmer curry: A spicy curry but very addictive with a broth made from rich coconut milk. Khmer curry has a harmonious and extremely rich flavor.
Lap Khmer: A beef salad mixed with lemongrass, chili, lime, and herbs. The dish has a sour and spicy taste that stimulates the taste buds and is served with rice paper.
Kdam chaa: A steamed crab with black pepper that is extremely fragrant and sweet. Anvui Travel tells you that Kampot pepper is an extremely famous flavor.
Ba sach chrouk: A pork rice dish with a flavor close to the Vietnamese people. Ba sach Shrouk is braised pork served with rice. This dish often appears in family meals and restaurants in Kampot.
Amok: A traditional Cambodian dish made from minced fish or meat, coconut milk, eggs, etc. The dish is steamed in banana leaves and has a delicious, fatty flavor.

6. WHERE TO STAY WHEN TRAVELING IN KAMPOT?

Most hotels in Kampot are quite cheap and convenient. According to the experience of traveling to Cambodia, Anvui Travel finds that Hour Kheang Hotel is in a beautiful location, close to entertainment venues, especially the owner here is very enthusiastic and kind. In addition, you can refer to some other hotels such as Thansur Sokha Hotel, Sabay Beach, Two Moons Hotel,…

Kampot, a poetic and peaceful land captivated many people when they set foot here. If you have the opportunity to come to Cambodia, don’t forget to visit this wonderful place! Customers who want to travel to Cambodia and are looking for a professional, affordable tour operator, don’t hesitate to contact Anvui Travel via info@anvuitravel.com or (Hotline): +84 912 683 908!

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