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Kirirom National Park: The Mountain of Joy

Discover Cambodia's first national park: pine forests, waterfalls, and mountain vistas await in the cool Kirirom National Park.

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Escape the Cambodian heat in Kirirom National Park, a mountain retreat offering pine forests, waterfalls, and stunning views. Named 'Happy Mountain' in the 1930s, it's a haven for hiking, camping, and enjoying a cooler climate amidst the Cardamom Mountains.

A brief summary to Kirirom National Park

Local tips

  • Visit during the dry season (November to April) for cooler weather and easier hiking conditions.
  • Pack comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, and sun protection for your visit.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for a more immersive experience and to navigate the trails safely.
  • Bring long sleeves for chilly evenings in the mountains.
  • Be prepared to pay a small entrance fee of around $5 USD.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Phnom Penh, take a bus heading towards Sihanoukville or Koh Kong. Major bus lines include Giant Ibis, Mekong Express, and Sorya. Alight at Treng Trayueng village, approximately 112 km from Phnom Penh. From there, hire a local moto-taxi (tuk-tuk) for the remaining 15 km to the park entrance. Bus tickets to Sihanoukville typically start around $10, though you will be charged the full route price. A moto-taxi from Treng Trayueng to the park will cost around $7. Negotiate the fare in advance.

  • Car

    From Phnom Penh, drive along National Road 4 towards Sihanoukville. After approximately 112 km, turn right at the junction near Traeng Trayueng onto the road leading to Kirirom National Park. Follow this road for about 15 km to reach the park entrance. Be mindful of local driving habits and road conditions. Parking is available near the park entrance. Tolls may apply on National Road 4.

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Discover more about Kirirom National Park

Kirirom National Park, officially named Preah Suramarit-Kossamak Kirirom National Park, is a natural escape located in the eastern part of the Cardamom Mountains. Established in 1993, it holds the distinction of being Cambodia's first officially designated national park. The park's name, meaning "Happy Mountain," was bestowed by King Monivong in the 1930s. Rising to a mean elevation of 675 meters (2,215 ft), Kirirom offers a unique landscape characterized by pine forests, a rarity in Southeast Asia, offering a cooler climate than the surrounding lowlands. The park is home to several waterfalls, including Kirirom Waterfall and Chambok Waterfall, providing refreshing spots for relaxation. Visitors can explore various hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging treks, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Kirirom's history stretches back to the French colonial era when it served as a luxurious retreat for the French elite. Today, conservation efforts are underway to restore the park's natural splendor and promote ecotourism. Activities include trekking, mountain biking, camping, and wildlife spotting, with opportunities to see gibbons and various bird species. The park also holds spiritual significance for locals, who gather to share meals and celebrate traditional Khmer festivities.

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