Anlong Veng Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Anlong Veng with our comprehensive travel guide. Learn about its culture, places to visit, hiking routes, best things to do, food scene, where to stay, and more.
- Anlong Veng Travel Guide
- List of Places to Visit in Anlong Veng
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Anlong Veng
- Best Things to Do in Anlong Veng: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Anlong Veng
- Food and Drink Scene of Anlong Veng
- Where to Stay in Anlong Veng: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Anlong Veng: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Anlong Veng
- Best Time to Visit Anlong Veng
- Do’s and Don’ts of Anlong Veng
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Anlong Veng: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Anlong Veng
- Where to Go Next from Anlong Veng: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Anlong Veng Travel Guide
Located in north-western Cambodia, Anlong Veng is a lesser-known but culturally and historically rich destination. The town was once the last stronghold of the Khmer Rouge, and today it’s a fascinating place to visit for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll highlight the top things to see and do in Anlong Veng, as well as provide tips on where to stay, what to eat, and how to stay safe and healthy during your visit.
List of Places to Visit in Anlong Veng
Anlong Veng offers a mix of cultural and natural attractions. Below are some of the must-visit places during your trip:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Pol Pot’s Grave
Pol Pot was the leader of the Khmer Rouge and responsible for the deaths of millions of Cambodians. He died in Anlong Veng in 1998, and his grave is now open to the public. The site still attracts both admirers and critics of Pol Pot.
Ta Mok’s House
Ta Mok, also known as “The Butcher,” was a senior figure in the Khmer Rouge regime. His house, which was built with slave labor, gives an insight into how the Khmer Rouge leaders lived during their reign of terror.
Anlong Veng Peace Center
The Anlong Veng Peace Center is a museum built to promote peace, reconciliation, and forgiveness among Cambodians. Exhibits include survivors’ accounts of the Khmer Rouge era, as well as an exhibition of arms and weapons used during those years.
Natural Attractions of Anlong Veng: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Dangrek Mountains
Located on the Thai-Cambodian border, Dangrek Mountains offer a scenic view of the landscape extending across the border. Adventure enthusiasts can go hiking or biking in the mountains or enjoy the fantastic views while driving along the winding roads.
O’Tavao Waterfalls
Surrounded by lush green forest, O’Tavao Waterfalls are a refreshing sight. Visitors can take a dip in the cool waters or enjoy a picnic in the natural surroundings. You can also enjoy a guided tour, which includes a traditional Khmer village nearby.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Anlong Veng
Anlong Veng is a fantastic place to go hiking and biking. Here are some great routes to explore:
Prasat Preah Vihear
Prasat Preah Vihear is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located around 130 km north of Anlong Veng. The route to Prasat Preah Vihear offers breathtaking views of the landscape.
Phnom Kulen Forest
Located about 80 km from Anlong Veng, the Phnom Kulen Forest is home to waterfalls, rivers, and the Phnom Kulen mountain. The tour includes a dip in the cool waters and a visit to a nearby temple.
Best Things to Do in Anlong Veng: Activities and Tours
Anlong Veng offers plenty of activities for tourists. Here are some of the best things to do:
Ta Mok’s Trail
Visitors can hike Ta Mok’s Trail, which is about four km long, and experience the beauty of the surrounding forests. The trail also includes a visit to Ta Mok’s house, giving insights into the Khmer Rouge leadership.
Khmer Rouge Trail Tour
The tour includes a visit to the site where Khmer Rouge leaders Pol Pot and his associates were killed. Visitors can also explore the surrounding forests and nearby villages.
Angkor Wat Temples
Though situated around 450 km away from Anlong Veng, the Angkor Wat Temples are a must-visit attraction. Visitors can take a guided tour of the ancient temples and learn about the history of the Khmer Empire.
Week-Long Itinerary for Anlong Veng
Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Anlong Veng:
| Day | Plan |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival and city tour of Anlong Veng. Visit the Pol Pot’s Grave, Ta Mok’s House, and Anlong Veng Peace Center. |
| Day 2 | Visit the O’Tavao Waterfalls and explore the surrounding area. |
| Day 3 | Take a hiking tour of Prasat Preah Vihear. |
| Day 4 | Enjoy a day exploring the Phnom Kulen Forest. |
| Day 5 | Take a Khmer Rouge Trail Tour. |
| Day 6 | Visit the Dangrek Mountains for a scenic adventure trip. |
| Day 7 | Departure from Anlong Veng. |
Food and Drink Scene of Anlong Veng
Anlong Veng’s food scene is a mix of traditional Khmer cuisine and street food. Here are some must-try dishes:
Must-Try Dishes
Amok
A traditional Khmer dish, Amok is a curry made with fish or chicken, coconut milk, and bamboo shoots, and spices like lemongrass and kaffir lime. It’s served with rice.
Lok Lak
A Khmer-style beef stir-fry, served with rice and a side of fresh vegetables.
Local Beverages
Sugar Cane Juice
A refreshing drink made from sugar cane juice mixed with lime juice, water, and ice. It’s an excellent thirst-quencher on a hot day.
Angkor Beer
A popular Cambodian beer, Angkor beer is a light beer with a gentle flavor.
Where to Stay in Anlong Veng: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Anlong Veng offers a range of accommodation options, including luxury hotels, mid-range hotels, guesthouses, and homestays.
Budget Options
Anlong Resort
A basic hotel, offering clean rooms with basic amenities, the Anlong Resort is located in the center of town.
Phnom Dek Guesthouse
Popular with backpackers, Phnom Dek Guesthouse offers affordable accommodation in the heart of Anlong Veng.
Mid-Range Options
Sala Koh Trong Resort
A luxury resort, Sala Koh Trong is an excellent option for those looking for a bit of luxury during their stay in Anlong Veng. It offers air-conditioned rooms and an outdoor swimming pool.
Au Cabaret Vert
A green hotel, Au Cabaret Vert offers a comfortable and eco-friendly stay near the Dangrek Mountains.
What to Buy in Anlong Veng: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Here are some local products and souvenirs to purchase in Anlong Veng:
Weaving Artifacts
Anlong Veng is home to several weaving communities that produce traditional Khmer fabrics using silk, cotton, and lotus. You can find anything from scarves to shawls, tablecloths, and clothing items.
Local Culture and Customs of Anlong Veng
Anlong Veng is home to a unique culture, influenced by the Khmer Rouge years. The locals are predominantly farmers, and the town has a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere. While visiting, it’s essential to respect the local customs and traditions, such as dressing modestly and taking off shoes when entering someone’s house.
Best Time to Visit Anlong Veng
The best time to visit Anlong Veng is between November and March when the weather is cooler and more pleasant. April to June can be swelteringly hot with high humidity, which can make outdoor activities uncomfortable.
Do’s and Don’ts of Anlong Veng
To help you stay safe and show respect while visiting Anlong Veng, here are some do’s and don’ts:
Do:
- Dress modestly and respect local customs.
- Ask before taking photographs of locals.
- Respect the environment and avoid littering.
Don’t:
- Don’t use illegal drugs.
- Don’t touch or remove artifacts from temples or museums.
- Don’t disrespect the monarchy or religion.
Safety and Health
Safety in Anlong Veng
Anlong Veng is generally a safe place for tourists. Visitors should be cautious when driving on the winding mountain roads and avoid traveling alone at night.
Health in Anlong Veng
Visitors to Anlong Veng should be careful with food and water to prevent stomach infections. It’s essential to use insect repellent to avoid mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue fever and malaria.
Getting to Anlong Veng: Transportation Options and Logistics
It’s best to reach Anlong Veng by road. Here are some options:
Airports Near Anlong Veng
The nearest airport is Siem Reap International Airport, located approximately 140 km away.
Bus Stations Near Anlong Veng
Tourist buses connect Anlong Veng to Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and Battambang.
Other Options
Taxis and private cars can also be hired from nearby cities for a more comfortable and personalized trip.
How to Get Around in Anlong Veng
Anlong Veng is a small town, and it’s easy to explore on foot. However, for more extended distances, hiring a motorbike or a car is recommended, especially for trips to the surrounding region or mountains.
Where to Go Next from Anlong Veng: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
If you have more time in Cambodia, consider adding these destinations to your itinerary:
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Siem Reap: Visit Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world.
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Battambang: Explore Cambodia’s second-largest city, known for its French colonial architecture and bamboo trains.
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Phnom Penh: Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh, is known for its historic palaces, museums, and bustling markets.
Conclusion
Anlong Veng is an offbeat destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re interested in learning about the Khmer Rouge era or exploring the region’s natural beauty, you’ll find plenty to do and see in this town. Use this guide to plan your trip to Anlong Veng, and experience Cambodia like a local.
