Kampot is a province in southwest Cambodia, edging onto the Gulf of Thailand. In the west, the jungle of Preah Monivong (aka Bokor) National Park in the misty Elephant Mountains is home to Bokor Hill Station, a 1920s French ghost town. On the banks of the Teuk Chhou River, the province's sleepy capital, Kampot, is known for its French colonial architecture.
Top Attractions:
- Bokor National Park: Explore Bokor National Park, a protected area known for its lush forests, waterfalls, and wildlife. Visit the abandoned French colonial hill station atop Bokor Mountain, which offers panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding countryside.
- Kampot Pepper Plantations: Discover Kampot's renowned pepper plantations, where the world-famous Kampot pepper is cultivated. Take a guided tour of pepper farms to learn about the cultivation process and sample fresh Kampot pepper.
- Kampot River: Relax on a leisurely boat trip along the Kampot River. Enjoy scenic views of the countryside, explore mangrove forests and fishing villages, and observe local life along the riverbanks.
- Kampong Trach Cave Temple: Visit Kampong Trach Cave Temple, a stunning complex of limestone caves and Buddhist shrines. Explore caverns adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, and climb to the hilltop pagoda for panoramic views.
- Kep Beach: Take a day trip to nearby Kep Beach, known for its tranquil waters and fresh seafood. Relax on the sandy shores, enjoy swimming and sunbathing, and indulge in delicious crab dishes at beachfront restaurants.
- Durian Roundabout: Admire the quirky Durian Roundabout, a traffic circle in the center of Kampot town adorned with a giant statue of a durian fruit. Snap photos and learn about the significance of durian in Kampot's agricultural heritage.
Top Things to Do:
- River Cruises and Kayaking: Explore the Kampot River by taking a scenic river cruise or kayaking adventure. Paddle through mangrove forests, spot wildlife along the riverbanks, and enjoy peaceful moments on the water.
- Cycling Tours: Discover the countryside and rural villages of Kampot Province on a cycling tour. Ride along scenic routes, visit pepper plantations and salt fields, and interact with friendly locals along the way.
- Sunset Boat Tours: Experience breathtaking sunsets over the Kampot River with a sunset boat tour. Relax on board a traditional Khmer wooden boat, savoring drinks and snacks as you watch the sky transform into a kaleidoscope of colors.
- Khmer Cooking Classes: Learn to cook traditional Khmer dishes with a cooking class in Kampot. Visit local markets to shop for fresh ingredients, then join a hands-on cooking session to prepare authentic Cambodian cuisine.
- Visit Secret Lake: Explore Secret Lake, a tranquil reservoir located just outside Kampot town. Relax in peaceful surroundings, go fishing or birdwatching, and enjoy picnics by the water's edge.
- Explore Kampot Town: Wander through the charming streets of Kampot town, lined with colonial-era buildings, boutique shops, and cafes. Visit local markets, temples, and art galleries, and soak up the laid-back atmosphere of this historic town.