A Cultural Family Adventure in Kampot, Cambodia

A Journey Through Time and Taste

Today was a day of exploration that truly touched my soul, blending the ancient with the agricultural in a way that only Kampot can. From the depths of a historic cave to the vibrant fields of a pepper plantation, it was an experience that resonated deeply with my Cambodian heritage.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Birds Nest. It's a cozy spot, and the strong coffee was just what Hans and I needed to kickstart our adventures. Lara was excited too, fueled by pancakes and the promise of exploring a cave! After breakfast, we set off to Phnom Chhngok Cave.


Explore the enchanting Phnom Chhngok Cave in Cambodia, a stunning archaeological site and spiritual haven set amidst lush landscapes and rich history.

The drive to Phnom Chhngok was beautiful, taking us through the heart of the Cambodian countryside. The landscape was dotted with rice paddies and traditional houses, a scene that always brings a sense of peace and nostalgia. As we approached the cave, I couldn't help but feel a connection to my ancestors, imagining them walking the same path centuries ago. The best time to visit Phnom Chhngok is from October to January.

The climb up to the cave entrance was a bit steep, but the view from the top was worth every step. The panoramic vista of Kampot's countryside was simply breathtaking. Entering the cave felt like stepping back in time. The ancient Hindu temple nestled within the cave is a testament to Cambodia's rich history, predating even the magnificent Angkor Wat.

Exploring Phnom Chhngok Cave was like stepping back in time, connecting with Cambodia's rich history and the enduring spirit of its people.

Lara was fascinated by the stalactites and stalagmites, her eyes wide with wonder as she explored the cave's depths. Hans, ever the history enthusiast, was engrossed in examining the ancient brickwork and carvings. I found myself reflecting on the stories these caves could tell, the echoes of prayers and rituals from centuries past. It's amazing to think that this cave and temple dates back to the 7th century.

After our exploration of Phnom Chhngok, we were ready for lunch. We drove back towards Kampot and stopped at Marina Italian Restaurant & Deli.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Marina Italian Restaurant & Deli in Krong Kampot - where every dish tells a story.

It might seem odd to have Italian food in Cambodia, but after days of Khmer cuisine, we were ready for a change and I have to admit, the pizza was delicious! It was a welcome taste of Europe, reminding Hans and I of our life in Dresden.

Our next stop was Sothy's Pepper Farm.


Discover the exquisite flavors of Cambodia at Sothy's Pepper Farm, the heart of organic spice cultivation and culinary delight.

I had heard so much about Kampot pepper, and I was eager to see firsthand how it's cultivated. The drive to the farm was as scenic as ever, passing through small villages and lush green fields. Sothy's Pepper Farm is an organic family-run farm specializing in the production of world-renowned Kampot pepper.

Arriving at Sothy's, we were greeted by the fragrant aroma of pepper. The tour of the farm was incredibly informative, detailing the meticulous process of growing, harvesting, and drying the peppercorns. I was particularly impressed by Sothy's commitment to sustainable farming practices, avoiding chemical fertilizers and insecticides. They produce all four varieties of certified Kampot pepper - green, black, red, and white.

We learned about the different varieties of Kampot pepper, each with its unique flavor profile. The green pepper, with its fresh, vibrant taste, was a revelation. The black pepper, with its bold, spicy kick, was a classic. And the red pepper, with its subtle sweetness, was a delightful surprise. I felt a surge of pride knowing that this world-renowned spice comes from my homeland. Kampot pepper received the prestigious Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status in 2010.

Lara enjoyed running through the pepper vines, her laughter echoing through the fields. Hans, always keen to learn, peppered the guide with questions about the farming techniques. I was moved by the dedication and passion of the Sothy family, their commitment to preserving this unique Cambodian treasure.

Before leaving, we, of course, purchased a selection of Kampot pepper to bring back home. I can already imagine the wonderful dishes I'll create, infusing a taste of Cambodia into our meals in Dresden. I'm eager to try some Khmer cooking when we return home! I might even try my hand at making Lok Lak, a delicious Cambodian beef stir-fry.

Our final stop of the day was Ylang Ylang Gallery.


Explore the vibrant artistic flavors of Cambodia at Ylang Ylang Gallery, a must-visit for art lovers in Krong Kampot.

I wanted to find a special piece of art to remind us of our time in Kampot. The gallery was a treasure trove of Cambodian artistry, showcasing paintings, textiles, and handicrafts from local artists. I was particularly drawn to a vibrant painting of a traditional Khmer dancer, its colors and movement capturing the essence of Cambodian culture. I didn't purchase it, but I did get a smaller carving of an apsara dancer. It was a perfect memento of our day.

For dinner, we decided to try Rusty Keyhole.


Experience delightful cuisine at Rusty Keyhole in Kampot, where local flavors meet international flair in a charming setting.

We enjoyed European cuisine as we relaxed by the river. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploring Kampot. Rusty Keyhole is known for its ribs.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude. Kampot has a way of weaving together history, culture, and natural beauty, creating an experience that is both enriching and deeply personal. Sharing this with Hans and Lara makes it even more special.

Tomorrow, we're heading to Bokor Hill Station [Itinerary of Tomorrow]. I'm excited to explore the unique landscape and historical sites, and I'm sure Lara will love the views from the top of the mountain. I am a little concerned about leeches though, so I'll make sure we are all wearing appropriate clothing!

Good night from Kampot!