Exploring the Mystical Caves of Phnom Chhngok

Nestled in the scenic countryside of Kampot Province, Phnom Chhngok Cave Temple offers an enchanting blend of natural wonder and ancient spirituality. This mystical limestone cave, set within a peaceful rural landscape about 12 kilometers northeast of Kampot town, is not only a geological marvel but also home to a pre-Angkorian brick temple dating back to the 7th century. As you approach the site, you’ll pass through quiet villages and rice fields before reaching the stairs that lead up the hill to the cave entrance. Inside, the cave opens into a large, shadowy chamber with dramatic stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over millions of years, some of which resemble animals and mythical creatures. The air is cool and still, and shafts of sunlight occasionally pierce through the rock, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. At the heart of the cave stands the small but remarkable brick temple dedicated to Shiva, remarkably well-preserved and considered one of the oldest Hindu sanctuaries in Cambodia. Local guides, often young villagers, are available to share legends and assist with navigating deeper sections of the cave. Some routes even lead out through narrow limestone tunnels for the adventurous. Phnom Chhngok is more than a destination—it’s an experience that combines history, mystery, and the raw beauty of nature. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply someone in search of a unique day trip in Kampot, this hidden gem offers a peaceful and unforgettable escape from the ordinary. Don’t forget to wear good walking shoes and bring a flashlight for exploring the deeper corners of the cave. A visit to Phnom Chhngok is a journey back in time—one that echoes with the stories of Cambodia’s ancient past.

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Khmer New Year, also known as “Choul Chnam Thmey,” meaning entering the new year, is a national holiday hosted by Cambodians annually. It is the season when Cambodians have free time from harvesting rice and other agricultural commodities. The event is Cambodia’s largest event and lasts three days, on the 13th, 14th, or 15th of April (in a specific year, it could be on the 14th to 16th of April).

Cambodian New Year is celebrated just like other Asian New Year Festivals that blend history with religious practices, emphasizing and commemorating the seniors and ancestors. While there are merriments with traditional meals and beverages, the three days are packed with Buddhist compliance centered on performing gratitude, sending offerings to deceased family members, and contributing to those in need. The following preparations are exclusively made for the Khmer New Year.

Nestled along the tranquil banks of the Kampot River, Sokchea Kampot Hotel serves as the perfect gateway to exploring one of Cambodia’s most charming provinces. Kampot is known for its laid-back atmosphere, French colonial architecture, and breathtaking natural scenery. From this ideally located hotel, travelers can easily access the region’s top attractions that showcase both its cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Just a short drive away lies Bokor National Park, a must-visit destination offering cool mountain air, lush forests, and historical landmarks such as the old French hill station and the atmospheric Bokor Palace ruins. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the coast and spot rare wildlife along scenic hiking trails. For those seeking a taste of local life, a trip to the Kampot Pepper Plantations reveals the secrets behind Cambodia’s world-famous pepper, often praised by top chefs worldwide.

Another highlight is the Kampot River, where travelers can kayak, take a sunset cruise, or simply relax along its peaceful banks. Nearby, the Kep Beach and Crab Market offer a seaside escape with fresh seafood and ocean breezes, just a short journey from the hotel.

After a day of exploration, guests can return to Sokchea Kampot Hotel to unwind in comfort, enjoying modern amenities and warm Cambodian hospitality. Whether you’re drawn by nature, culture, or cuisine, exploring Kampot from Sokchea Kampot Hotel promises an unforgettable and authentic Cambodian experience.

Sunset at Kep Beach

Nestled along Cambodia’s southern coast, Kep Beach is a hidden gem that offers an unparalleled experience for sunset enthusiasts. As the day begins to wane, Kep Beach transforms into a serene haven where the vibrant hues of the setting sun paint the sky and sea in a mesmerizing display.

Imagine strolling along the soft sandy shore, the gentle waves lapping at your feet as the sky transitions from the warm glow of daylight to a palette of oranges, pinks, and purples. The calm waters of the Gulf of Thailand mirror the kaleidoscope of colors, creating a breathtaking vista that feels almost surreal.

As you find your perfect spot on the beach, the sun slowly descends towards the horizon, casting a golden path across the water. The silhouette of the distant islands adds to the enchanting scene, providing a picturesque backdrop for this natural spectacle. The tranquil atmosphere is occasionally punctuated by the laughter of children playing in the distance and the soft murmur of conversations from nearby beachgoers, all captivated by the beauty unfolding before them.

Whether you’re a photographer looking to capture the perfect shot, a couple seeking a romantic moment, or a solo traveler in search of peace and reflection, the sunset at Kep Beach offers something for everyone. The experience is enhanced by the simplicity of the surroundings—no towering buildings or bustling crowds, just the pure, unspoiled beauty of nature.

As the sun finally dips below the horizon, the sky’s colors deepen and the first stars begin to twinkle, marking the end of another beautiful day in Kep. The gentle transition from day to night leaves a lingering sense of tranquility and a lasting impression, making sunset at Kep Beach an unforgettable highlight of any visit to this charming coastal town.

Khmer New Year, or Choul Chnam Thmey, is one of the most significant and joyous celebrations in Cambodia, marking the transition to the new year according to the traditional Buddhist calendar. In 2025, the festival will take place from April 14 to 16, bringing families, communities, and visitors together for three days of vibrant festivities, cultural traditions, and religious ceremonies. The celebrations begin with Maha Sangkran, the first day when people clean their homes, wear traditional Khmer clothing, and visit pagodas to offer prayers and seek blessings for the new year. The second day, Veareak Vanabat, is dedicated to acts of charity, as families donate food and essential items to monks, the elderly, and those in need, reflecting the spirit of kindness and generosity that defines the holiday. The final day, Veareak Leung Sakk, is marked by Buddha bathing ceremonies, symbolizing purification and renewal, and is a time for families to gather, share meals, and engage in traditional games and celebrations. Across Cambodia, cities, towns, and villages come alive with joyful activities, including cultural performances, music, and traditional games such as Chol Chhoung and Bos Angkunh, which bring communities together in playful competition. The highlight of Khmer New Year in 2025 will be the Angkor Sankranta Festival in Siem Reap, a large-scale cultural event hosted at Angkor Wat and other key locations, where visitors can experience traditional dance performances, martial arts demonstrations, and culinary showcases that celebrate Cambodia’s rich heritage. As one of the most anticipated festivals of the year, Khmer New Year is a time of reflection, gratitude, and renewal, where people honor their ancestors, strengthen family bonds, and welcome the future with optimism and joy. Whether in the bustling streets of Phnom Penh, the historic temples of Siem Reap, or the tranquil countryside, the spirit of the festival unites Cambodians in a shared expression of culture, happiness, and national pride.

 

Also called Ancestor’s’ Day, Pchum Ben is, according to legend, a time where spirits of deceased relatives and ancestors walk the earth. Running for 15 days, usually towards the end of September or October, the fifteenth day of the tenth month of the Khmer Calendar marks one of the most traditional and colourful festivals in Cambodia with people dressing up in traditional clothing to visit their local pagodas with food and offerings and pay respect to their ancestors.

Pchum Ben can also be translated to ‘gathering together to make offerings’, and that’s exactly what families do when they visit the pagodas.

Enjoy your wonderful family reunion!

La Plantation was founded in 2013 by a French-Cambodian couple, Nathalie and Guy Porré, who were deeply inspired by Cambodia’s cultural richness and agricultural potential. After discovering the deep heritage of Kampot Pepper once prized by chefs around the world — they made it their mission to revive and protect this iconic spice through ethical and sustainable farming.

What began as a small project turned into a flourishing agro-tourism destination, one of the most respected pepper farms in Cambodia and across Southeast Asia.

🌿 Discover La Plantation: The Heart of Kampot Pepper Culture

When visiting Kampot, one experience that truly captures the soul of the region is a visit to La Plantation — a world-renowned pepper farm and agro-tourism destination. Nestled among the lush green hills just outside Kampot city, La Plantation isn’t just a pepper farm — it’s a living story of tradition, sustainability, and the unforgettable taste of Kampot Pepper, Cambodia’s culinary treasure.

🫚 What Makes La Plantation Special?

La Plantation is one of the leading producers of certified organic Kampot pepper — a product recognized globally with a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), much like Champagne in France or Parma ham in Italy. But beyond growing premium pepper, La Plantation offers visitors an immersive experience into Cambodia’s spice culture.

🌱 Guided Tours: From Farm to Flavor

Whether you’re a foodie, a nature lover, or simply curious, La Plantation welcomes you with free guided tours in English, Khmer, or French. During the tour, you’ll learn:

  • How Kampot pepper is planted, harvested, and sun-dried by hand
  • The differences between black, red, white, and green pepper
  • Sustainable farming practices that protect the local ecosystem

You’ll walk through the vibrant pepper gardens, see local workers in action, and gain a deep appreciation for the hard work behind each tiny peppercorn.

🧂 Taste the Difference: Kampot Pepper Tasting

One of the highlights of any visit is the pepper tasting session. Here, you’ll get to:

  • Sample the various types of Kampot pepper each with its unique aroma and flavor
  • Try their famous fresh salted green pepper crunchy, mildly spicy, and incredibly addictive
  • Discover other exotic spices grown on-site like turmeric, long pepper, and galangal

Many visitors are surprised to learn how nuanced pepper can be it’s not just “hot”; it’s floral, fruity, herbal, and earthy all at once.

🍽️ Khmer Cuisine Meets French Flair

La Plantation also features a charming on-site restaurant and spice bar, where you can taste local Cambodian dishes with a gourmet twist all enhanced with their freshly harvested spices. Popular menu items include:

  • Beef Lok Lak with Kampot black pepper sauce
  • Pepper ice cream (yes, it’s delicious!)
  • Fresh tropical fruit juices and cocktails infused with local herbs

Cooking classes are also available for those who want to take a deeper dive into Khmer cuisine.

❤️ A Commitment to Community & Sustainability

La Plantation is more than a tourist destination. it’s a community-driven project. Founded by a French Cambodian couple, the farm:

  • Provides stable employment to over 100 local workers
  • Supports a local primary school and offers scholarships
  • Rescues and restores traditional Khmer wooden houses for use on-site
  • Is certified organic and actively promotes sustainable farming

By visiting, you’re directly supporting local farmers and helping preserve Kampot’s cultural and agricultural heritage.

🧭 How to Get There from Sokchea Kampot Hotel

La Plantation is about 25–30 minutes from Kampot town. Here are your options:

  • Tuk-tuk: A scenic countryside ride
  • Shuttle or private car: We can help arrange transport for you — just ask at our front desk!
  • Motorbike: For the adventurous traveler

Make sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and a camera the views over the rice fields and mountains are stunning.

🌟 Don’t Miss This Unique Kampot Experience

A visit to La Plantation is more than a farm tour . it’s a journey into Cambodia’s rich agricultural tradition, local flavors, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re staying a few days or a week in Kampot, this is one of the must-do experiences we highly recommend.