Bokor National Park, located in Kampot Province, Cambodia, is known for its lush forests, cooler mountain climate, and stunning viewpoints over the Gulf of Thailand. Established in the early 1990s, the park covers more than 1,400 square kilometers, offering visitors a mix of natural and historical attractions.
Here’s a more in-depth look at each key spot in Bokor National Park:
- Old Bokor Hill Station
The Bokor Hill Station was developed by the French in the 1920s as a retreat for colonial elites wanting to escape the heat. The most famous structures include the Old Casino and the Bokor Palace Hotel, both of which were abandoned in the 1970s during the Cambodian Civil War. The Old Casino, though now weathered and covered in moss, offers stunning panoramic views and has a mysterious, ghostly ambiance that makes it popular among visitors. This area has also been used as a backdrop for several movies due to its unique, atmospheric appearance.
- Wat Sampov Pram Pagoda
This beautiful temple, known as the “Pagoda of Five Boats” due to the boat-like rock formations around it, is located near the top of Bokor Mountain. The pagoda was built in 1924 and is considered a sacred place for locals, housing statues of Buddha, intricate carvings, and beautiful painted murals. The view from Wat Sampov Pram is breathtaking, offering a vantage point overlooking the jungle, coastline, and islands in the distance. The mist surrounding the temple gives it a mystical quality, making it feel like a hidden temple in the clouds.
- Popokvil Waterfall
Popokvil Waterfall is a two-tiered waterfall nestled within the dense jungle of Bokor National Park. The name “Popokvil” translates to “Swirling Clouds,” inspired by the mist that often hovers around the waterfall. The falls are at their most impressive during the rainy season (typically between May and October), when the water cascades over the rocks, creating natural pools below where visitors can dip their feet. It’s an ideal spot for a picnic, and there are often local vendors selling snacks and drinks near the falls. Be cautious, though, as the rocks around the waterfall can be slippery.
- Bokor Mountain Viewpoint
Bokor Mountain Viewpoint offers one of the most expansive and picturesque views in Cambodia. At this viewpoint, you can look out over the dense jungle and see the glittering Gulf of Thailand on clear days. It’s a fantastic place to watch the sunrise or sunset, with the horizon stretching over the sea and islands. Early morning or late afternoon light casts a magical glow, ideal for photographers. The viewpoint is easily accessible by car or motorbike, making it a popular stop on any Bokor Mountain tour.
- Black Palace (Damnak Sla Khmao)
The Black Palace, or Damnak Sla Khmao, was built in the 1930s as a private residence for King Norodom Sihanouk. Though now abandoned, the building has an intriguing mix of Cambodian and French architectural styles. The palace is in ruins, with the jungle reclaiming parts of the structure, but it offers fascinating insights into Cambodia’s past and provides a quiet retreat with sweeping views over the valley below. The Black Palace is also considered somewhat mystical and spiritual by locals, as it has endured many political and historical changes over the years.
- Lok Yeay Mao Monument
The Lok Yeay Mao Monument is an enormous statue (over 29 meters tall) of a legendary Cambodian heroine, Yeay Mao, believed to protect travelers, fishermen, and the coastlines. Yeay Mao is a venerated figure in Cambodian folklore, and the monument has become a pilgrimage site for those seeking blessings and protection. The statue is located in a scenic spot on Bokor Mountain and can be seen from a great distance due to its size. Many locals and visitors stop here to offer incense and pay their respects, making it a cultural highlight of the park.
- Wildlife and Nature Trails
Bokor National Park is rich in biodiversity, hosting a variety of wildlife such as gibbons, macaques, hornbills, and even rare clouded leopards (though sightings are extremely rare). There are also many species of butterflies, exotic plants, and orchids, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Several trails allow for hiking and birdwatching. Some of these trails are led by local guides, which can enhance the experience with insights into the flora and fauna of the region. While the forest trails vary in difficulty, they offer a chance to immerse yourself in the pristine natural environment.
