Situated in Cambodia's southwestern part, Kampot is a charming historical town alongside the Gulf of Thailand. It’s famous for its colonial French architecture and natural beauty. As the capital of Kampot Province, it is located on the Tuk Chhou River and is encircled by the Elephant Mountains, Bokor Hills, and scenic beaches. Kampot is a popular destination after Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.
From river cruises to hidden waterfalls and enchanting caves, there are many places to visit in Kampot for every traveller. In this travel guide, we will explore 15 coastal places to visit in Kampot in 2024.
Top 15 Coastal Places To Visit in Kampot
1. Kampot River
The Kampot River in Cambodia flows through the towns of Kampot and Kep, joining the Gulf of Thailand. It supports local fishing and is a popular spot for sunset cruises and water activities, making it one of the key Kampot tourist attractions. The river’s flow can reverse with the tides, and it can flood during the rainy season from July to October.
2. Kampot Salt Field
The beautiful Kampot Salt Fields is one of the unique Kampot places to visit. Here, you will be mesmerized by how local farmers harvest salt from shimmering beds under the sun. The guided tour will help you understand the salt-production process and its importance to the local economy. Also, enjoy the beautiful countryside, with golden horizons and remote mountains as your backdrop.
3. Preah Monivong Bokor National Park
For nature lovers and adventure fanatics, exploring Bokor National Park is essential. Located just a short drive from Kampot, this vast national park offers breathtaking views, diverse flora and fauna, and a rich history. Explore the winding hiking that takes you to enchanting viewpoints, cascading waterfalls, and the famous Bokor Hill Station, a historic resort from the French colonial era. Be sure to visit the deserted buildings and ruins scattered across the park for a unique insigths into Cambodia's cultural legacy.
4. Sothy's Pepper Farm
Sothy's Pepper Farm, located between Kampot and Kep, is a must-see among places to visit in Kampot. This small farm offers free tours where you can learn about Kampot pepper, famous for its taste and Protected Geographical Indication status. You can also discover organic farming methods and enjoy the beautiful countryside.
5. Teuk Chhou Rapids
Escape the tropical dip with a refreshing dip in the lucid waters of Teuk Chhou Rapids, one of the top Kampot tourist attractions. Nestled in a lush tropical forest, this natural water park is perfect for picnicking, swimming, and relaxing. Stroll through shallow pools, relax on sun-warmed rocks, or challenge the exciting rapids. With its peaceful atmosphere and pristine beauty, this place is perfect for unwinding and connecting with nature.
6. Popokvil Waterfall
Travel into Bokor National Park and discover Popokvil Waterfall, one of the top Kampot places to visit. Surrounded by lush greenery, this waterfall offers a beautiful setting and pleasant weather. During summer, the water dries up, making it perfect for camping. Hike to the base of the falls and watch for wildlife like giant red squirrels and macaques.
7. Phnom Sorsia
Discover Phnom Sorsia, one of the top places to visit in Kampot. This sacred mountain has intricate caves, stunning rock carvings, and a bright modern temple. Visit the White Elephant Cave and Bat Cave, where thousands of bats fly out at dusk. Climb to the top for panoramic views of Kampot’s countryside and a breathtaking sunset. Around 150km from Kampot, you can reach Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia. If you're planning to extend your trip, Phnom Penh will be the better option as it is the hub of many tourist spots. You can also check tourist places & top attractions to see in Phnom Penh.
8. Kampong Trach Cave
Enter Kampong Trach Cave, one of the top Kampot tourist attractions and explore old limestone formations and shimmering pools in this mystical cave. Take guided tours to explore vast chambers illuminated by natural skylights, which create beautiful shadows. Marvel at the intricate stalactites and stalagmites, shaped over centuries. The cave's wonder will captivate you as you explore this stunning nature's masterpiece.
9. Bat Cave
The Bat Cave, one of the exciting places to visit in Kampot, is near Phnom Sampeau in Battambang, Cambodia. Each evening at around 5 PM, millions of Asian wrinkle-lipped bats emerge for their nightly hunt, creating a stunning spectacle against the sunset. The bats fly out in a dark stream, making it a must-see event.
10. Tada Waterfall
Tada Waterfall, one of the top places to visit in Kampot, is a hidden gem in the lush hills. Trek through the jungle to reach these stunning falls, and dip into cool, lucid pools. Surrounded by huge trees and greenery, it’s a perfect spot for both adventure and relaxation, offering a peaceful escape from daily life.
11. Phnom Chhngok Cave
Explore Phnom Chhngok Cave, one of the top Kampot tourist attractions. Hidden in a thick jungle, this ancient cave features stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and sculptured rock formations. It’s a great spot for adventure fanatics. Once a sacred site for Khmer Rouge soldiers, the cave adds to its fascinating mystery and natural beauty. There are many fascinating places to visit in Kampot to make your Cambodia trip more memorable. Here, you can check the list of must-see places in Cambodia and plan your itinerary accordingly.
12. Trapang Sangkae Community
Trapang Sangkae Community, one of the top places to visit in Kampot, is home to about 500 families working to protect local mangroves. These mangroves support an ecosystem that provides food like shrimp and fish. Enjoy a boat journey on Preak Teuk Chhu, stunning sunsets, and explore mangrove forests. The community promotes ecological tourism, supporting both local residents and the environment.
13. Kampot Durian Roundabout
A trip to Kampot is incomplete without visiting the Kampot Durian Roundabout. This busy marketplace is where locals sell fresh commodities, handicrafts, and spices. Named after the famous durian fruit, the roundabout is a sensory delight. Try Kampot fruits like sweet mangoes, revitalising coconut, and the renowned pepper of Kampot. It’s a lively spot for foodies and culture fanatics.
14. La Plantation Kampot
Explore La Plantation Kampot, Cambodia’s huge pepper plantation, just outside Kampot. Discover the distinct harvesting methods of Kampot pepper, celebrated for its distinctive flavour, during a guided tour. Wander through fragrant pepper fields and enjoy beautiful countryside views. Don’t forget to visit the onsite shop to buy premium pepper products and remember your visit.
15. Kampot Fish Market
Kampot Fish Market, built in 1934, was once an open-air market for fishermen. After becoming a discotheque, it was restored in 2013 to its Art Deco charm. The striking yellow facade and vaulted ceilings now house an upscale seafood restaurant with river views and a large outdoor terrace. It’s a great spot for dining or just enjoying a drink and the view.
Documents Required to Visit Kampot
To visit Kampot, you might need the following documents:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months' validity from the time of departure.
- Completed visa application form.
- Three recent passport-sized photos.
- Personal bank statement for the last three months.
- Proof of accommodation in Cambodia.
- Arrival and return air tickets.
- Get your travel insurance for Cambodia if it is mandatory.
VISA Process to Visit Kampot
Follow the steps below to attain a visa for Kampot:
- Determine the type of visa you need for your visit to Kampot.
- Gather the required documents, including a valid passport, visa application form, photo ID, and proof of travel expenses.
- Fill out the visa application form accurately and submit it with the required documents to the Cambodian embassy or consulate.
- Pay the visa fee as per the embassy or consulate's requirements.
- Submit your application and wait for approval. The processing time may vary, so apply well in advance of your planned travel date.
Importance of Travel Insurance During International Travel
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