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Preah Monivong Bokor National Park: A Blend of Nature and History

Explore Cambodia's Preah Monivong Bokor National Park: Where history meets nature in a landscape of misty mountains and colonial ruins.

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Preah Monivong Bokor National Park, located in Cambodia's Kampot Province, is a sprawling natural reserve boasting misty mountains, lush jungles, and historical remnants of the French colonial era. Established in 1993, the park offers a unique landscape, combining natural beauty with historical intrigue.

A brief summary to Preah Monivong Bokor National Park

Local tips

  • Visit during the dry season (November to April) for pleasant weather and minimal rainfall.
  • Bring a light jacket, as the temperature at the higher elevations can be cool.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for deeper insights into the park's history and wildlife.
  • Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the park's trails.
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Getting There

  • Car

    The most common way to reach Preah Monivong Bokor National Park is by car or motorbike from Kampot. From Kampot, take National Highway 3 for approximately 8 kilometers, then turn left onto the road leading up to the park. The road to the summit is paved but winding and steep in some sections. Taxis can also be hired from Kampot. The drive takes about an hour. Expect to pay around $25-35 for a round trip taxi from Kampot. Motorbike rentals in Kampot typically cost around $5-10 per day.

  • Public Transport

    For those traveling from Phnom Penh, buses are available to Kampot. From Kampot, you will need to hire a taxi or motorbike to reach the park. A bus ticket from Phnom Penh to Kampot costs approximately $8. The bus journey takes around 3 hours. Keep in mind that the additional taxi or motorbike ride from Kampot to the park will add to the overall travel time and cost.

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Discover more about Preah Monivong Bokor National Park

Preah Monivong Bokor National Park, often called Bokor National Park, is a 1,544 square kilometer protected area in southern Cambodia's Kampot Province. Established in 1993, it's a place where misty mountains, lush rainforests and fascinating history converge. The park is part of the Dâmrei Mountains, an extension of the Cardamom Mountains. Much of the terrain sits roughly 1,000 meters above sea level, with Phnom Bokor (Bokor Mountain) as the highest peak at 1,081 meters. The park's history is intertwined with French colonialism. In the 1920s, the French, seeking refuge from Cambodia's heat, established Bokor Hill Station, a retreat led by King Sisowath Monivong. This included a hotel, casino, church, and other buildings. However, this glory was short-lived, and the area declined after King Monivong's death in 1941. The Khmer Rouge's rise in the 1970s led to its abandonment, transforming it into an eerie ghost town. In 1993, the area was recognized for its natural significance and established as a national park. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of Bokor Hill Station, including the Bokor Palace Hotel, a symbol of the area's past. Other attractions include the Lok Yeay Mao statue, Popokvil Waterfall, and Wat Sampov Pram, a temple with stunning views. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including clouded leopards, macaques, and various bird species. While wildlife sightings can be infrequent, the park offers a sanctuary for various species.

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