Kampot is a lively town and a popular destination on Southeast Asia travel itineraries. Set on the Kampong Bay River and surrounded by rice paddies, it will enchant you with its beautiful architecture and lively street scene. A growing population of expats means there’s no shortage of trendy cafes and Western restaurants in Kampot. The pace is slow and laid-back, making it a perfect destination for a relaxing getaway.
Things to do in Kampot
Bokor National Park protects some of the thickest and most beautiful rainforests in Cambodia. Kampot is a great base for visiting the park, where you can explore a historic French hill station and spot more than 300 species of birds. The park is also home to Malayan sun bears and clouded leopards, though sightings are rare.
From French souffles to hand-stretched Italian pizzas and Mexican tacos, Kampot restaurants serve some of the best international cuisine in Cambodia. Cooking lessons are a fun and immersive way to learn more about traditional Cambodian cuisine. Head to the riverside Bokor Night Market to enjoy “lort cha” fried noodles, BBQ skewers, “kuy teav” spicy pork soup and other popular street food. For dessert, indulge in coconut ice cream and friend banana chunks.
Surrounded by rice paddies, Phnom Chhnork Cave is a short tuk tuk ride from the town centre. Climb the stone staircase up to the enormous cavern, which is carved into the limestone cliffsides and filled with Buddhist shrines. Admire the beautiful 7th-century brick temple in the main chamber and look up to spot bats hanging from the ceiling.
Kampot is surrounded by emerald-green countryside and sprawling spice plantations. Tours of La Plantation organic pepper farm take you behind the scenes and explain how the coveted spice is grown and harvested.
Getting around Kampot
Kampot is compact and easy to get around on foot, while tuk tuks are a fast and affordable way to get from A to B. Hiring a private driver for the day is an easy way to explore surrounding sights and attractions at your own pace. Long-distance buses run between Kampot and Phnom Penh in around 3.5 hours.