Bokor National Park Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in Bokor National Park. Learn about its culture, customs, safety, and logistical information for your trip.


Introduction to Bokor National Park

Bokor National Park is a vast protected area that covers over 1,500 square kilometers in southern Cambodia. It boasts a diverse landscape of rolling hills, lush tropical forests, dramatic waterfalls, and magnificent temples, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and culture seekers alike. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip to this breathtaking park.

List of Places to Visit in Bokor National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Bokor Hill Station

The most popular attraction in the park is the Bokor Hill Station, a former French colonial resort town that has been abandoned for decades. Today, visitors can explore the eerie ruins of the once-grand buildings, including an abandoned hotel, casino, church, and palace. The site also offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Wat Sampov Pram

Another prominent attraction is the Wat Sampov Pram, a stunningly ornate temple complex that dates back to the early 20th century. The complex features intricate carvings, gold leaf, and colorful murals, making it a photographer’s dream.

Natural Attractions of Bokor National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Popokvil Waterfall

The Popokvil Waterfall is one of the most picturesque spots in the park, with its multi-tiered cascades set against a serene green backdrop. Visitors can trek through the surrounding forest to get there, which is a definite highlight for nature lovers.

Preah Monivong Bokor National Park

For outdoor adventure enthusiasts, Preah Monivong Bokor National Park offers a vast array of possible activities. Hiking and biking trails crisscross over the park’s diverse landscape, offering stunning views and challenging terrain for visitors who love to trek.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bokor National Park

Many hiking and biking trails traverse the park’s rolling hills and forests, providing nature enthusiasts with ample opportunities to explore the beauty of the park at their leisure. Some of the popular routes include:

  • The Bokor Circuit Trail
  • The Phnom Bokor Trail
  • The Popokvil Waterfall Trail

Best Things to Do in Bokor National Park: Activities and Tours

Bokor National Park is a great place to explore on your own, but if you prefer organized tours and activities, there are plenty of options available. Some of the highly recommended ones are:

  • Biking and hiking tours
  • Wildlife watching and birdwatching tours
  • Cultural and historical tours

Week-Long Itinerary for Bokor National Park

Here’s a one-week itinerary packed with the best of Bokor National Park, so you don’t miss a thing:

Day 1: Arrival in Bokor National Park, check into your hotel, and explore the Bokor Hill Station.

Day 2: Visit the Wat Sampov Pram temple complex and Phnom Bokor.

Day 3: Take a day trip to Kampot, a charming colonial town known for its pepper plantations and stunning riverside views.

Day 4: Hike to Popokvil Waterfall and explore the stunning natural surroundings.

Day 5: Take a bike tour of the park, or alternatively, visit the Wildlife Alliance’s “Ranger Station.”

Day 6: Take a cultural and historical tour to learn about Cambodia’s rich history and the impact of the French colonial period on the nation.

Day 7: Departure from Bokor National Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Bokor National Park

Must-Try Dishes

Khmer cuisine is known for its mix of spicy, sour, salty, and sweet flavors, and there are plenty of delicious dishes to try in Bokor National Park. Some of the most popular ones are:

  • Fish amok: A fragrant curry dish made with fish, coconut milk, and lemongrass.
  • Khmer red curry: A spicy curry dish made with meat, coconut milk, and red chilies.
  • Kdam chaa: Crispy fried crab.

Local Beverages

Cambodian cuisine is incomplete without trying some of its refreshing local beverages. Some of the must-try drinks include:

  • Canned coconut juice
  • Fresh sugar cane juice
  • Angkor Beer: Cambodia’s most popular beer

Where to Stay in Bokor National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of places to stay in and around Bokor National Park. From budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels, you’ll find something to suit all budgets and tastes. Some of the top recommendations are:

  • Thansur Sokha Hotel
  • The Columns Guesthouse
  • The Plantation Urban Resort & Spa

What to Buy in Bokor National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Shopping in Bokor National Park is a unique cultural experience. Don’t forget to take home some of the following souvenirs and local products:

  • Kampot pepper: Some of the world’s best pepper is grown in neighboring Kampot, which is an ideal destination for spice lovers.
  • Kramas: A traditional Khmer scarf that comes in any color imaginable.
  • Silk products: Handwoven silk textiles in rich shades of earthy colors and vibrant blues.

Local Culture and Customs of Bokor National Park

Cambodian culture is rich and diverse, and visitors to Bokor National Park will undoubtedly come across many customs and traditions. Some of the unique cultural experiences to look out for are:

  • Cambodia’s deeply ingrained respect for the monarchy
  • The importance of religious offerings
  • Traditional Khmer dance and music performances

Best Time to Visit Bokor National Park

The best time to visit Bokor National Park is from November to February, when the weather is dry, and the temperatures are cooler. The park is open year-round, but the rainy season, from June to October, can make some of the paths and trails hard to navigate.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bokor National Park

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting temples and other religious sites.
  • Carry enough cash, as many places don’t accept credit or debit cards.

Don’t:

  • Litter, especially in the park’s sensitive natural habitats.
  • Buy from street vendors selling protected wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bokor National Park

Bokor National Park is generally considered safe for visitors, but, as with any remote location or natural area, it is always wise to take precautions. Among the advised steps:

  • Stay on marked trails and paths, especially in unfamiliar territory.
  • Always carry a map and a fully charged phone.
  • If hiking alone, make sure to tell someone your intended route and expected return time.

Health in Bokor National Park

Cambodia is no stranger to tropical diseases, and visitors should prepare accordingly. Among the measures to take:

  • Get vaccinated for tetanus, typhoid, and hepatitis A and B.
  • Wear long sleeves and apply insect repellent to avoid mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue or malaria.

Getting to Bokor National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Reaching Bokor National Park is relatively simple but requires some logistical changes. The most common approach is to travel by land or air. The nearest international airport is in Phnom Penh. From there, you can either drive or take a bus or a taxi.

Airports Near Bokor National Park

  • Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH)

Bus Stations Near Bokor National Park

  • Phnom Penh Bus Station (Sia Hin)
  • Kampot Bus Station

Other Options

  • Private car and driver hire
  • Shared minivan

How to Get Around in Bokor National Park

Getting around the park is relatively simple, with plenty of transportation options available. You can hire a bike or a motorbike, take a taxi, or join a guided tour.

Where to Go Next from Bokor National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bokor National Park is just one of the incredible destinations in southern Cambodia. Some of the nearby excursions to consider include:

  • Kep: A sleepy seaside town known for its fresh crab market
  • Kampot: A charming colonial town that’s renowned for its pepper plantations
  • Rabbit Island: A scenic island with beautiful beaches, clear waters, and abundant marine life

Conclusion

Bokor National Park is a magical place that offers a wealth of experiences for visitors of all types. From culture and history to the great outdoors, there’s something for everyone here in southern Cambodia’s crown jewel. With the information above, you’ll be well equipped to make the most of your visit to this amazing attraction.

The old Catholic church The old Catholic church King Sihanouk's swimming pool (what's left of it) King Sihanouk's swimming pool (what's left of it) The colonial church The colonial church