Kampot Travel Guide – Discover Southern Cambodia’s Hidden Gem

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When to Visit Kampot

Kampot has a tropical climate with three distinct seasons:

• Cool & Dry Season (November–February):
  This is the most pleasant time to visit. With temperatures ranging from 22°C to 30°C, it’s ideal for outdoor adventures such as trekking in Bokor National Park, boat rides on the Kampot River, or motorbike trips to the countryside. December and January are particularly popular, so booking ahead is recommended.

• Hot Season (March–May):
  Expect temperatures between 32°C–38°C. It can get quite humid, but this is a great time to enjoy air-conditioned cafés, the refreshing river, and poolside relaxation. April is also Khmer New Year, where you’ll witness traditional celebrations, water games, and festive local culture.

• Rainy (Green) Season (June–October):
  The countryside turns lush and vibrant. While rain can be frequent, it usually falls in short bursts in the afternoon or at night. This is the best time for landscape photography, low-season deals, and fewer crowds at attractions.

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What to See & Do in Kampot

Bokor National Park & Hill Station

Located about 40 minutes from Kampot town, Bokor Mountain offers cool mountain air, cloud-draped forests, and an eerie colonial ghost town. Highlights include:

• Bokor Palace Hotel & Casino (built in the 1920s)

• Old Catholic Church with panoramic views

• Popokvil Waterfall, especially strong during rainy season

• Statue of Lok Yeay Mao, a local spiritual icon

• New Thansur Bokor Resort for those seeking comfort at the top

Phnom Chhngok Cave Temple

A 7th-century temple nestled inside a limestone cave, this site features:

• An ancient brick shrine dedicated to Shiva

• Stunning stalactites and stalagmites

• Beautiful views over rice paddies from the hill

• Local guides who can tell stories and legends of the cave

Salt Fields

South of Kampot town, vast salt fields glisten in the sun during the dry season (Dec–April). You can:

• Watch salt being harvested by hand

• Photograph striking mirror-like landscapes

• Learn about Cambodia’s traditional salt production methods

Kampot Pepper Plantations

Visit certified Geographical Indication (GI) pepper farms to:

• Tour the pepper-growing process from vine to product

• Taste black, red, and white pepper varieties

• Buy fresh Kampot pepper, ideal for gifts

• Farms to visit: La Plantation, Sothy’s Pepper Farm, and FarmLink

Kampot River & Sunset Cruises

The tranquil Preaek Tuek Chhu River offers:

• Kayaking and paddleboarding in calm waters

• Sunset cruises with drinks and live music

• Firefly watching in the evening

• Riverside bungalows and eco-lodges for overnight stays

Old Town Kampot

Stroll through the historic town center:

• French colonial buildings and colorful shophouses

• Local cafés, bakeries, and riverside bars

• The bustling Old Market, perfect for street food and souvenirs

• Small galleries and boutiques featuring local art

Wellness & Community Life

Kampot is increasingly popular among wellness travelers:

• Yoga classes, meditation retreats, and massage spas

• Weekly events like open mic nights, community dinners, and art workshops

• Farmer’s markets and small festivals

Day Trip to Kep & Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay)

Kep, just 30 minutes away, is known for:

• The Crab Market with fresh seafood and Kampot pepper crab

• Kep Beach and the coastal promenade

• Boat rides to Rabbit Island, a quiet beach escape with basic bungalows

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Getting to Kampot

• By Bus or Van: Regular connections from Phnom Penh (3–4 hrs) and Sihanoukville (2–3 hrs)

• By Train: Royal Railway operates a scenic train from Phnom Penh on weekends and holidays

• By Private Taxi or Car: Ideal for small groups or families; available from major cities

• From Kep: Easily reached by tuk-tuk or motorbike in under 40 minutes

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Getting Around Kampot

• Tuk-tuks: Common for short trips, town tours, or countryside excursions

• Motorbike rental: Available for USD $4–7/day—ideal for exploring at your own pace

• Bicycle rental: Best for nearby attractions like Secret Lake or pepper farms

• Boat tours: Book through your hotel or local agencies

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Visas & Entry

• Most nationalities can enter Visa-Free (14–30 days) or obtain a Visa on Arrival

• eVisa is available online: www.evisa.gov.kh

• Passport must be valid for at least 6 months

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Useful Numbers

• Police: 117

• Ambulance: 119

• Fire: 118

• Kampot Referral Hospital: +855 33 210 140

• Royal Kampot Hospital (Private): +855 10 777 715

• Tourist Police: +855 12 402 424

• Tourism Department: Located in Kampot town near the roundabout

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Practical Information

Language

• Official: Khmer

• English is widely spoken in tourist areas

Currency

• Cambodian Riel (KHR), but US Dollars are accepted everywhere

Electricity

• Voltage: 220V

• Plugs: European round two-pin

• Adapters widely available

SIM Cards

• Purchase local SIMs from Smart, Metfone, or Cellcard

• Available at shops or convenience stores like 7-Eleven/Mini Mart

Time Zone

• UTC +7 (same as Thailand and Vietnam)

Business Hours

• Shops: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM

• Banks: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

• Restaurants: 10:00 AM – late

• Markets: Open early morning until sunset

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Alcohol, Dining & Nightlife

• Alcohol is sold freely, except on election or Buddhist holidays

• Kampot’s nightlife is relaxed: riverside bars, live music, and firefly cruises

• Local specialties:

  • Crab with Kampot Pepper

  • Fish Amok

  • Khmer curry

  • Street noodles and grilled meats

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