Preah Vihear
Things to see and do
In Preah Vihear Province, visitors can explore a variety of attractions and engage in activities that showcase the region's natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical significance. Here are some things to see and do in Preah Vihear:
Visit Preah Vihear Temple: Explore the iconic Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site perched atop a cliff on the Dangrek Mountains. Marvel at the temple's stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Guided tours are available to provide insights into the temple's history and significance.
Explore Ancient Ruins: Discover other ancient ruins and archaeological sites scattered throughout the province. These include remnants of Khmer civilization, such as temples, shrines, and stone carvings, which offer insights into Cambodia's rich cultural heritage.
Trekking and Hiking: Embark on trekking and hiking adventures through Preah Vihear's rugged terrain and lush forests. Explore hiking trails that lead to scenic viewpoints, hidden waterfalls, and remote villages, offering opportunities to immerse yourself in nature and experience local life.
Wildlife Watching: Discover the region's diverse wildlife by embarking on wildlife watching excursions. Preah Vihear is home to a variety of species, including birds, mammals, and reptiles, making it a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in cultural experiences and interacting with the community. Visit traditional villages, attend cultural performances, and learn about local customs, traditions, and crafts, such as weaving and pottery making.
Scenic Drives: Take scenic drives through the countryside to admire the province's picturesque landscapes and rural scenery. Drive along winding roads that meander through mountains, valleys, and rice fields, stopping at viewpoints and scenic overlooks along the way.
Border Crossing to Thailand: For those interested in cross-border travel, consider visiting the nearby border town of Choam Khsant and crossing into Thailand. Explore the border area, visit local markets, and experience the cultural influences of both Cambodia and Thailand.
Photography: Capture the beauty of Preah Vihear Province through photography. From ancient temples and scenic landscapes to colorful markets and vibrant street scenes, the province offers endless opportunities for photographers to capture stunning images.
Good to Know
When to visit?
The best time to visit Preah Vihear Province in Cambodia is during the dry season, which typically spans from November to April. During this period, the weather is generally dry, sunny, and relatively cool, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
The months of December to February are considered the peak tourist season in Cambodia, including Preah Vihear Province, due to the comfortable temperatures and clear skies. However, this also means that popular attractions may be more crowded, and accommodations may be more expensive during this time.
If you prefer to avoid the crowds and don't mind slightly warmer temperatures, visiting Preah Vihear Province during the shoulder months of November and March can be a good option. During these months, you can still enjoy dry weather and sunny days while encountering fewer tourists.
The wet season, from May to October, brings heavy rainfall and higher humidity to Preah Vihear Province and the surrounding region. While the countryside becomes lush and green during this time, outdoor activities may be limited due to the rain. However, the wet season can also be a good time to visit for travelers seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience and lower prices on accommodations.
Access
Accessing Preah Vihear Province in Cambodia typically involves traveling by road from major cities and tourist hubs. Here are some common ways to access Preah Vihear Province:
From Siem Reap: Siem Reap is a popular starting point for travelers visiting Preah Vihear Province. The most common way to travel between Siem Reap and Preah Vihear is by bus or shared minivan. The journey takes approximately 4 to 6 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.
From Phnom Penh: Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia, is another common starting point for travelers heading to Preah Vihear Province. Visitors can travel to Preah Vihear from Phnom Penh by bus, taxi, or private car. The journey typically takes around 7 to 9 hours by road.
From Battambang: Battambang is a city located to the southwest of Preah Vihear Province. Travelers coming from Battambang can reach Preah Vihear by bus or taxi. The journey takes approximately 5 to 7 hours by road, depending on the route taken.
By Private Car or Motorbike: For those who prefer flexibility and independence, renting a car or motorbike is an option for traveling to Preah Vihear Province. The journey allows travelers to explore at their own pace and stop at attractions along the way.
Where to eat and taste
In Preah Vihear Province, dining options may be limited compared to larger cities like Siem Reap or Phnom Penh, but visitors can still find local eateries and street food stalls offering authentic Cambodian cuisine. Here are some places where you can eat and taste local flavors in Preah Vihear:
Local Markets: Explore the bustling markets in towns and villages throughout Preah Vihear Province to sample a variety of Khmer street food and snacks. Look for food stalls selling grilled meats, noodle soups, fresh fruit, and traditional desserts.
Local Restaurants and Cafes: Seek out small, family-owned restaurants and cafes serving traditional Cambodian dishes. These establishments often offer simple yet delicious meals made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Look for dishes like fish amok (steamed fish curry), beef lok lak (stir-fried beef), and kuy teav (noodle soup).
Roadside Food Stalls: Along major roads and highways, you'll often find roadside food stalls selling snacks and refreshments to travelers passing through. Stop by these stalls to enjoy grilled skewers, rice cakes, and other tasty treats.
Guesthouses and Homestays: If you're staying in a guesthouse or homestay in Preah Vihear Province, inquire about dining options available on-site or nearby. Many guesthouses offer home-cooked meals prepared by local hosts, providing an authentic taste of Khmer cuisine.
Street Food: Keep an eye out for street food vendors selling snacks and meals from carts and stalls along the streets of towns and villages. Try local favorites like nom krok (coconut rice pancakes), bai sach chrouk (pork and rice), and num banh chok (Khmer noodles with fish curry).
Mobile Food Vendors: Look for mobile food vendors riding bicycles or motorbikes equipped with cooking equipment, selling snacks and meals to locals and travelers alike. These vendors often roam the streets, making it convenient to grab a quick bite while exploring the area.
Local Specialties: Don't miss the opportunity to taste regional specialties and delicacies unique to Preah Vihear Province. Ask locals for recommendations on must-try dishes and hidden gems in the area.
