Kampot
Things to see and do
In Kampot, Cambodia, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities and explore several attractions. Here are some things to do and see in Kampot:
Visit Pepper Plantations: Explore Kampot's renowned pepper plantations, where you can learn about the cultivation process of Kampot pepper, sample different varieties, and purchase freshly ground pepper to take home as a souvenir.
Bokor National Park: Embark on a day trip to Bokor National Park, located about 37 kilometers from Kampot. Explore the park's lush forests, scenic viewpoints, and abandoned colonial-era buildings, such as the Bokor Hill Station. Enjoy hiking, wildlife spotting, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Cruise along the Teuk Chhou River: Take a leisurely boat ride along the Teuk Chhou River, which winds its way through Kampot's scenic countryside. Enjoy the tranquility of the river and admire the lush landscapes and traditional Khmer villages along the banks.
Explore the Kampot Riverfront: Wander along the Kampot Riverfront and soak in the charming atmosphere of this riverside town. Discover colonial-era buildings, quaint cafes, and riverside restaurants offering scenic views of the river and surrounding mountains.
Kampot Provincial Museum: Visit the Kampot Provincial Museum to learn about the region's history, culture, and biodiversity. The museum showcases artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that provide insight into Kampot's colonial past and Khmer heritage.
Take a Cooking Class: Learn to cook traditional Khmer dishes by taking a cooking class in Kampot. Join a local chef to shop for fresh ingredients at the market and then learn to prepare classic Cambodian recipes using authentic techniques and flavors.
Explore Kep: Take a short trip to the nearby coastal town of Kep, known for its tranquil beaches, seafood markets, and French colonial villas. Explore Kep National Park, relax on the beach, and savor fresh crab dishes at the famous Kep Crab Market.
Discover Cave Temples: Explore cave temples such as Phnom Chhnork and Phnom Sorsia, located just outside of Kampot. Marvel at the ancient Hindu and Buddhist shrines carved into the limestone caves and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Good to Know
When to visit?
The best time to visit Kampot, Cambodia, is during the dry season, which typically extends from November to April. During this period, the weather is generally sunny and dry, with minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
December to February is considered the peak tourist season in Kampot, so expect larger crowds and higher prices during this time. However, the weather is pleasant, with cooler temperatures and lower humidity compared to the rest of the year.
If you prefer to avoid the crowds and don't mind slightly warmer temperatures, visiting during the shoulder months of November and March can be a good option. During these months, you can still enjoy dry weather while encountering fewer tourists.
The wet season, from May to October, brings heavy rainfall and higher humidity to Kampot. While the region may experience fewer tourists during this time, outdoor activities can be limited due to the rain. However, the lush landscapes and lower prices can make it an attractive option for budget travelers.
Access
There are several ways to access Kampot, Cambodia, depending on your starting point and preferences:
By Road: Kampot is easily accessible by road from major cities in Cambodia, such as Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville. The journey by road typically takes a few hours, with well-maintained highways connecting Kampot to other parts of the country. You can travel to Kampot by bus, minivan, or private taxi from cities like Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, and Siem Reap.
By Air: While there is no airport in Kampot itself, you can fly into nearby airports and then travel to Kampot by road. The nearest airport is Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH), located approximately 150 kilometers northeast of Kampot. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Kampot.
By Boat: While less common, some travelers opt to access Kampot by boat along the Preaek Tuek Chhu River. Boat services typically operate between Kampot and nearby destinations such as Kep and Koh Kong. However, boat travel may be subject to availability and seasonal variations in water levels.
By Train: As of my last update, there are no direct train services to Kampot. However, the Cambodian government has plans to extend the country's railway network, which may include a railway line to Kampot in the future. Currently, the nearest train station is located in Sihanoukville.
Where to eat and taste
In Kampot, Cambodia, you'll find a variety of dining options offering delicious Khmer cuisine, fresh seafood, and international flavors. Here are some places to eat and taste in Kampot:
Riverside Restaurants: Enjoy scenic views of the Teuk Chhou River while dining at one of the many riverside restaurants in Kampot. These establishments offer a relaxed atmosphere and a variety of Khmer and international dishes. Sample fresh seafood, grilled meats, and traditional Cambodian specialties as you watch the sunset over the river.
Local Markets: Explore Kampot's bustling markets to experience authentic Khmer street food and local delicacies. Visit Psar Nat (Kampot Market) and Psar Kandal (Central Market) to sample a variety of dishes, including noodle soups, grilled meats, and tropical fruits. Don't miss the opportunity to try Kampot's famous pepper, available in various forms at the markets.
Pepper Plantations: Visit one of Kampot's pepper plantations to learn about the cultivation of Kampot pepper and taste this prized spice firsthand. Many pepper farms offer guided tours where you can see the pepper vines, learn about the harvesting process, and sample different varieties of pepper.
French Cafes and Bakeries: Explore Kampot's French colonial heritage by visiting one of the town's charming cafes and bakeries. Indulge in freshly baked baguettes, pastries, and desserts, accompanied by a cup of locally grown coffee or tea. Some popular cafes include Espresso Kampot and Cafe Espresso Roastery.
Seafood Restaurants: Kampot is renowned for its fresh seafood, thanks to its proximity to the Gulf of Thailand. Head to one of the seafood restaurants in town to feast on grilled fish, prawns, crabs, and squid caught daily by local fishermen. Try seafood specialties like Kampot crab with Kampot pepper sauce for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Cooking Classes: Learn to cook traditional Khmer dishes by taking a cooking class in Kampot. Join a local chef for a hands-on cooking experience, where you'll visit a local market to shop for ingredients and then learn to prepare classic Cambodian recipes. Cooking classes often end with a delicious meal shared with fellow participants.
