Kampot Province is a charming destination in southern Cambodia, famous for its laid-back river-town atmosphere, colonial architecture, and the world-renowned Kampot Pepper. The provincial capital, Kampot City, sits on the Kampong Bay River near the base of the Elephant Mountains.
Here is a brief overview of the popular tourist experience in the province:
History
Kampot has a long history, serving as Cambodia’s most important seaport during the mid-19th century, especially under French colonial rule, due to the loss of the Mekong Delta ports. The town’s center is notable for its preserved French colonial architecture. The province was an important area for trade and administration. Kampot suffered greatly during the civil war and the Khmer Rouge era, with parts of the region, like Bokor Mountain, being significant strongholds and battlegrounds. In recent decades, it has re-emerged as a peaceful tourist destination.
Geography
Kampot Province is located in the southwestern part of Cambodia, featuring a coastline on the Gulf of Thailand. The town itself is situated on the Praek Tuek Chhu River, near the base of the Dâmrei Mountains (Elephant Mountains). This geography of river, mountains, and proximity to the sea creates a distinct landscape. The province is agriculturally rich, known for its iconic Kampot pepper and for growing durian, salt, and other fruits. The province also contains a large protected area: Preah Monivong National Park (Bokor Mountain).
Climate
Kampot has a hot and humid tropical climate. The proximity of the coast and the mountains makes it slightly cooler and more prone to rain than some other parts of Cambodia.
Cool Season (November – March): Generally the most comfortable time to visit, with lower humidity and average temperatures.
Hot Season (March – May): The hottest time of the year.
Rainy Season (May – October): Characterized by abundant rainfall, often in heavy bursts that clear quickly, though roads outside the town can sometimes become difficult to pass.
Getting Around
The town of Kampot is relatively small and easily explored on foot or by bicycle (rentals are widely available). For longer trips to the countryside or nearby attractions:
Tuk-tuks and Motorbike Taxis (Motos): Easily accessible for transport to pepper farms, the salt fields, or the river outside of town. Always negotiate the fare in advance.
Motorbike Rental: A popular option for independent exploration of the province’s scenic roads and attractions, including Bokor National Park.
Tours/Private Taxis: Available for day trips to Bokor Mountain, Kep, and the surrounding countryside attractions.
Getting Around
The town of Kampot is relatively small and easily explored on foot or by bicycle (rentals are widely available). For longer trips to the countryside or nearby attractions:
- Tuk-tuks and Motorbike Taxis (Motos): Easily accessible for transport to pepper farms, the salt fields, or the river outside of town. Always negotiate the fare in advance.
- Motorbike Rental: A popular option for independent exploration of the province’s scenic roads and attractions, including Bokor National Park.
- Tours/Private Taxis: Available for day trips to Bokor Mountain, Kep, and the surrounding countryside attractions.
Kampot is a charming, relaxed provincial capital in southern Cambodia, famous for its world-renowned pepper and picturesque riverside location.
How to Get There
Kampot is accessible from Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville primarily by road and rail.
- From Phnom Penh:
- Bus/Minivan: The most common and affordable options, taking approximately 3 to 5 hours. Multiple companies offer daily services.
- Train: Royal Railway offers a daily service, which is a scenic but slower option, taking about 4 to 5 hours.
- Private Taxi: The fastest way by road, taking about 3 hours.
- From Sihanoukville: Travel is available via bus, minivan, train, or shared/private taxi, typically taking 2 to 3 hours.
Kampot is a charming, relaxed provincial capital in southern Cambodia, famous for its world-renowned pepper and picturesque riverside location.
History
Kampot has a long history, serving as Cambodia’s most important seaport during the mid-19th century, especially under French colonial rule, due to the loss of the Mekong Delta ports. The town’s center is notable for its preserved French colonial architecture. The province was an important area for trade and administration. Kampot suffered greatly during the civil war and the Khmer Rouge era, with parts of the region, like Bokor Mountain, being significant strongholds and battlegrounds. In recent decades, it has re-emerged as a peaceful tourist destination.
Geography
Kampot Province is located in the southwestern part of Cambodia, featuring a coastline on the Gulf of Thailand. The town itself is situated on the Praek Tuek Chhu River, near the base of the Dâmrei Mountains (Elephant Mountains). This geography of river, mountains, and proximity to the sea creates a distinct landscape. The province is agriculturally rich, known for its iconic Kampot pepper and for growing durian, salt, and other fruits. The province also contains a large protected area: Preah Monivong National Park (Bokor Mountain).
Climate
Kampot has a hot and humid tropical climate. The proximity of the coast and the mountains makes it slightly cooler and more prone to rain than some other parts of Cambodia.
- Cool Season (November – March): Generally the most comfortable time to visit, with lower humidity and average temperatures.
- Hot Season (March – May): The hottest time of the year.
- Rainy Season (May – October): Characterized by abundant rainfall, often in heavy bursts that clear quickly, though roads outside the town can sometimes become difficult to pass.
Getting Around
The town of Kampot is relatively small and easily explored on foot or by bicycle (rentals are widely available). For longer trips to the countryside or nearby attractions:
- Tuk-tuks and Motorbike Taxis (Motos): Easily accessible for transport to pepper farms, the salt fields, or the river outside of town. Always negotiate the fare in advance.
- Motorbike Rental: A popular option for independent exploration of the province’s scenic roads and attractions, including Bokor National Park.
- Tours/Private Taxis: Available for day trips to Bokor Mountain, Kep, and the surrounding countryside attractions.
How to Get There
Kampot is accessible from Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville primarily by road and rail.
- From Phnom Penh:
- Bus/Minivan: The most common and affordable options, taking approximately 3 to 5 hours. Multiple companies offer daily services.
- Train: Royal Railway offers a daily service, which is a scenic but slower option, taking about 4 to 5 hours.
- Private Taxi: The fastest way by road, taking about 3 hours.
- From Sihanoukville: Travel is available via bus, minivan, train, or shared/private taxi, typically taking 2 to 3 hours.
What to Do
The main attractions in Kampot blend natural beauty, agriculture, and colonial history:
- Bokor National Park: Explore the abandoned Bokor Hill Station, a French colonial resort with an old casino and church, and enjoy the cool mountain air and panoramic views.
- Visit a Kampot Pepper Farm: Take a tour of one of the renowned pepper plantations to learn about the cultivation process and sample the world-famous spice.
- River Activities: Go for a relaxing sunset cruise on the Praek Tuek Chhu River, or rent a kayak to paddle the calm waters, including the serene “Green Cathedral” section.
- Explore the Countryside: Visit the vast, shimmering Salt Fields (best viewed around sunset or during the harvesting season) and the ancient Phnom Chhngok Cave Temple.
- Stroll Kampot Town: Wander around the city center to see the remnants of French colonial architecture and the iconic Durian Roundabout.
- Day Trip to Kep: Visit the nearby coastal town, famous for its fresh Crab Market and seafood.
