Kampot, Cambodia Travel Guide

Discover Kampot, Cambodia's riverside gem, known for its stunning landscapes, historical charm, world-class pepper farms, and vibrant market scene.

Kampot, a serene town nestled along the banks of the Praek Tuek Chhu River, offers a blend of natural beauty, colonial architecture, and a laid-back vibe. The town is known for its charming streets lined with French colonial buildings, giving it a unique historical touch. The picturesque riverside is perfect for a relaxing stroll or a scenic boat ride, and the nearby Bokor National Park provides breathtaking views and thrilling outdoor adventures. Beyond its stunning landscapes, Kampot is famous for its pepper farms. The region's pepper is considered some of the best in the world, and visiting a pepper plantation is a must. The local cuisine, influenced by both Cambodian and French flavors, offers a delectable culinary experience. Be sure to try the seafood, which is fresh and flavorful, often seasoned with the renowned Kampot pepper. Kampot's vibrant market scene allows tourists to immerse themselves in local culture. The night market is particularly popular, offering everything from handmade crafts to delicious street food. For those interested in history, the town’s museums and old buildings narrate fascinating tales of its past. With its mix of natural wonders, cultural richness, and historical charm, Kampot is a delightful destination for any traveler seeking a genuine Cambodian experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kampot.

Visit a pepper farm to see how the famous Kampot pepper is grown and processed.
Take a sunset boat cruise on the Praek Tuek Chhu River for stunning views.
Explore Bokor National Park for hiking, waterfalls, and panoramic views.
Try the local seafood, especially dishes seasoned with Kampot pepper.
Check out the night market for unique souvenirs and delicious street food.
Rent a bicycle to explore the town and its surrounding countryside at a leisurely pace.
Visit the old French colonial buildings for a glimpse into Kampot's historical past.
Plan your visit during the dry season (November to April) for the best weather conditions.

Explore Kampot: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Kampot

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Grand World Phu Quoc

Explore the enchanting Grand World Phu Quoc, where pristine beaches meet vibrant culture for an unforgettable travel experience in Vietnam.

4.4

Phú Quốc

Explore the stunning beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant culture of Phú Quốc, Vietnam's tropical paradise known for its breathtaking landscapes.

4.4

Kep Crab Market

Discover the freshest seafood and local flavors at Kep Crab Market, a vibrant seafood market in Krong Kaeb, Cambodia.

4.1

Phu Quoc Night Market

Explore the bustling Phu Quoc Night Market for an unforgettable culinary adventure and a taste of local culture.

3.9

Best landmarks in Kampot

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Bokor Hill Station

Explore Bokor Hill Station: French colonial history, stunning mountain views, and cultural sites in Cambodia's Preah Monivong National Park.

4.3

Green Cathedral

Discover Kampot's Green Cathedral: Kayak through a stunning natural tunnel of lush greenery for a serene and unforgettable experience.

4.2

High Tide Kampot

Riverside bar and dog sanctuary in Kampot offering relaxation, stunning views, and a chance to support animal rescue. Open daily 8 AM - 1 AM.

4.5

Kampot Night Market

Experience the vibrant Kampot Night Market: a sensory feast of Cambodian street food, handmade crafts, and lively nightlife in the heart of Kampot town.

4.0

Best restaurants in Kampot

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Aroma House

Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors at Aroma House in Kampot - where every meal is a delightful journey.

4.8

Simons Tandoor Indian Restaurant

Experience authentic Indian flavors at Simons Tandoor Indian Restaurant in Kampot - a culinary delight not to be missed!

4.7

Simple Things

Discover Simple Things in Kampot: where delightful vegetarian cuisine meets wellness through yoga and coffee.

4.7

Lemongrass Bistro

Experience authentic Thai flavors at Lemongrass Bistro in Krong Kampot – where delicious cuisine meets warm hospitality.

4.5

Best bars in Kampot

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Oh Neil's Irish Bar

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and authentic Irish flavors at Oh Neil's Irish Bar, a must-visit destination in Kampot for every traveler.

4.4

Rusty Keyhole Two

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious offerings at Rusty Keyhole Two, Krong Kampot's premier sports bar for tourists and locals alike.

4.3

The Green Room - Kampot

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Green Room in Kampot, where delicious food, refreshing drinks, and local charm await every visitor.

4.7

RINA PUB

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kampot at Rina Pub, where affordable drinks and friendly games abound in a lively atmosphere.

5.0

Best nightclubs in Kampot

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Oh Neil's Irish Bar

Discover the authentic spirit of Ireland at Oh Neil's Irish Bar in Krong Kampot, offering great food, drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere.

4.4

Royal Kampot KTV

Dive into the lively nightlife of Kampot at Royal Kampot KTV, the ultimate karaoke destination for tourists seeking fun and entertainment.

4.1

CoolGirl Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kampot at CoolGirl Bar, where great drinks, lively music, and unforgettable memories await.

4.4

sweet heart bar @ kampot

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Sweet Heart Bar in Kampot, where lively music and refreshing drinks create unforgettable nights.

4.0

Best shops in Kampot

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Quoc An Pearl

Explore the stunning elegance of Quoc An Pearl in Phu Quoc, where exquisite craftsmanship meets the beauty of Vietnamese pearl jewelry.

3.9

Chợ Dương Đông Phú Quốc

Discover the vibrant Chợ Dương Đông in Phú Quốc, where local culture, fresh produce, and authentic Vietnamese cuisine come alive in a bustling market atmosphere.

4.3

Tiny Kampot Pillows

Explore Tiny Kampot Pillows in Krong Kampot for unique handmade souvenirs that reflect the beauty and artistry of Cambodian culture.

4.9

The Kampot Pepper Shop

Explore The Kampot Pepper Shop: Your gateway to authentic Kampot pepper and unique Cambodian gifts in the heart of Krong Kampot.

4.6

Explore Kampot on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Kampot, mapped for you.

Kampot Essentials

Kampot is located in southern Cambodia and can be accessed by various means. The nearest international airport is Phnom Penh International Airport, about 150 kilometers away. From Phnom Penh, travelers can take a bus, taxi, or minivan to Kampot, with the journey typically taking around 3 to 4 hours. Additionally, there are direct bus services from Sihanoukville, which is approximately 100 kilometers from Kampot. For a more scenic route, you can also take a train from Phnom Penh, which offers picturesque views of the Cambodian countryside.
Kampot is a relatively small town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer distances, local transportation options include tuk-tuks, motorbike taxis, and bicycles, all of which are readily available and affordable. Renting a motorbike is also a popular option for exploring the surrounding countryside at your own pace. Public buses and minivans connect Kampot to nearby towns and cities.
The official currency in Cambodia is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), but US dollars (USD) are widely accepted in Kampot. Most transactions, especially in tourist areas, are conducted in USD. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Kampot, and most dispense both USD and KHR.
Kampot is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Petty theft, such as bag snatching, can occur, so stay vigilant. Areas along the riverfront and some rural parts can be less patrolled, so exercise caution when visiting these locations.
In case of an emergency, dial 117 for police assistance or 119 for medical emergencies. Kampot has a local police station and several medical facilities, including the Kampot Provincial Referral Hospital. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes and hat when entering temples. Public Transport: Do be polite and patient when using public transport. Don't argue over prices; negotiate calmly if needed. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly smile and a traditional Cambodian greeting known as the 'Sampeah,' where you place your palms together in a prayer-like gesture. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and be gracious when offered food. Don't waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.
To experience Kampot like a local, visit the local markets, such as the Kampot Night Market, where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Cambodian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the salt fields and pepper farms, which are integral to Kampot's economy and heritage. For a unique experience, take a boat tour along the Kampot River at sunset, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

When is the best time to visit Kampot?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Kampot

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Kampot. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloសួស្តី
  [soo-sdei]
- Goodbyeលាហើយ
  [leah-heuy]
- Yesបាទ
  [baat]
- Noទេ
  [te]
- Please/You're welcomeសូមហើយ
  [soum heuy]
- Thank youអរគុណ
  [aw kuhn]
- Excuse me/Sorryសូមស្រលាញ
  [soum sralanh]
- How are you?អ្នកសុខសប្ដិ
  [nak sok sabai]
- Fine. And you?សុខសប្ដិ ទា អ្នក?
  [sok sabai teh nak?]
- Do you speak English?តើអ្នកនៅហ៊ីងលិច?
  [te nak now ingles?]
- I don't understandខ្ញុំមិនយល់
  [knhom min yol]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseខ្ញុំចង់មើលម៉ឺនុ, សូម
  [knhom chong moal menu, soum]
- I don't eat meatខ្ញុំមិនបិកសាច
  [knhom min bok sach]
- Cheers!ឆែស៊ី
  [chay]
- I would like to pay, pleaseខ្ញុំចង់បង់ប្រាក់, សូម
  [knhom chong bong braak, soum]
- Help!ជួយ!
  [chouy!]
- Go away!ចាកចេញ!
  [chak chech!]
- Call the Police!ហាងតាមសម្ពោង!
  [haang tam sampheung!]
- Call a doctor!ហាងចាកទៅវារ!
  [haang chak tow vear!]
- I'm lostខ្ញុំភេតបាន
  [knhom phet ban]
- I'm illខ្ញុំខឺង
  [knhom kong]
- I'd like to buy...ខ្ញុំចង់ទិញ...
  [knhom chong tien...]
- I'm just lookingខ្ញុំតែមើលប៉ុន្មាន
  [knhom tae moal pohnman]
- How much is it?តើវាលេខ?
  [te vealak?]
- That's too expensiveវាលេខមានលឿនដែល
  [vealak mean laen dal]
- Can you lower the price?តើអ្នកសំដៅថ្មីមលេខ?
  [te nak somdao thompi vealak?]
- What time is it?ម៉ោងណា?
  [moang naa?]
- It's one o'clockវាលេខមួយ
  [vealak muoy]
- Half past (10)លឿងនៅសួរគីរី
  [laen now soo kirir]
- Morningពង្ស
  [pong]
- Afternoonល្ងាច
  [lang chaa]
- Eveningល្ងាច
  [lang chaa]
- Yesterdayម្សិល
  [msul]
- Todayថ្ងៃនេះ
  [tngai nih]
- Tomorrowថ្ងៃស្អប់
  [tngai saap]
- 1មួយ
  [muoy]
- 2ពីរ
  [pii]
- 3បី
  [bei]
- 4បួន
  [buon]
- 5ប្រាាម
  [bram]
- 6បុរស
  [bohs]
- 7ប្រាាសូស
  [brah sous]
- 8ប្រាាបួន
  [brah buon]
- 9កណ្តា
  [gao da]
- 10ដប់
  [dop]
- Where's a/the...?នៅណា...
  [now naa...]
- What's the address?អាសយាឡិក?
  [asieak?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?តើអ្នកបងប្រាភិប (នៅលើផែនទី)?
  [te nak bong brahap (now lay pen tip)?]
- When's the next (bus)?នៅពេលណា (រយ)?
  [now pel naa (roy)?]
- A ticket (to ....)ស្រឡាតិក (ទៅ....)
  [sralet (tow...)]

History of Kampot

Kampot, a province in southern Cambodia, has a rich history that dates back to the Funan Kingdom in the early centuries AD. It was originally an important port city and a hub for trade and cultural exchange. The earliest records mention Kampot as a bustling center of commerce, connecting the region to India and China.
In the late 19th century, Kampot came under French colonial rule. The French developed the town as a colonial outpost and a key trading center. The architectural influence of this period is still evident today in the form of French colonial buildings, the old bridge, and the pepper plantations that were introduced during this era.
Kampot is world-renowned for its pepper, often considered the finest in the world. The cultivation of Kampot pepper began during the French colonial period, and it has become a symbol of the region's agricultural heritage. The pepper industry faced a severe decline during the Khmer Rouge regime but has since revived, earning a protected geographical indication (PGI) status.
The Khmer Rouge regime (1975-1979) had a devastating impact on Cambodia, including Kampot. During this time, the town suffered from forced evacuations, executions, and destruction of infrastructure. The remnants of this dark period are still visible in some parts of the province, serving as a somber reminder of the past.
After the fall of the Khmer Rouge, Kampot, like the rest of Cambodia, began a long process of reconstruction. The 1990s and early 2000s saw significant efforts to rebuild the town's infrastructure and revive its economy. Tourism started to flourish as Kampot's natural beauty and historical significance attracted visitors from around the world.
Kampot is a melting pot of cultures, with a mix of Khmer, Cham, Vietnamese, and Chinese influences. This is reflected in the town's festivals, cuisine, and religious practices. The annual Kampot River Festival is a vibrant celebration of the province's cultural diversity, featuring traditional music, dance, and boat races.
Kampot is blessed with natural beauty, from the serene Kampot River to the majestic Bokor Mountain. Bokor National Park is a major attraction, offering stunning views, waterfalls, and a variety of wildlife. The park also houses the remnants of a French colonial hill station, adding a historical dimension to its natural allure.
Today, Kampot is a thriving tourist destination known for its relaxed atmosphere, historical landmarks, and culinary delights. The town has managed to retain its charm while adapting to modern demands, making it a unique blend of the old and the new.