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.
We are thrilled to introduce Sokchea Angkor Hotel, our sister property located in the enchanting city of Siem Reap. Just as Sokchea Kampot Hotel strives to provide exceptional hospitality and comfort in Kampot, Sokchea Angkor Hotel offers the same level of excellence in the heart of Siem Reap.
Retreat to our elegant rooms and suites, meticulously designed to offer the utmost comfort and relaxation for our guests. Experience the perfect blend of modern amenities and traditional Khmer charm in every corner of our hotel. Conveniently situated in close proximity to the majestic temples of Angkor, Sokchea Angkor Hotel provides easy access to this UNESCO World Heritage Site about 7 kilometers away, allowing you to explore its ancient wonders at your leisure.
At Sokchea Angkor Hotel, our dedicated team is committed to providing personalized service and ensuring that every aspect of your stay exceeds your expectations. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted with genuine Cambodian hospitality and warmth.
Our onsite restaurant, where you can savor an array of delectable Khmer and international dishes prepared by our talented chefs. Whether you’re craving traditional flavors or international favorites, our restaurant offers something for every taste.
Unwind by the poolside oasis, pamper yourself with a rejuvenating spa treatment, or embark on guided tours to explore the cultural and natural wonders of Siem Reap and its surrounding areas.
Whether you’re visiting Siem Reap to marvel at the temples of Angkor or to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture and nightlife, Sokchea Angkor Hotel provides the perfect home away from home for your Cambodian adventure. Contact us now to reserve your room and embark on an unforgettable journey in Siem Reap!
Tucked away in southern Cambodia, Kampot is a charming riverside town that captivates visitors with its blend of colonial-era architecture, tranquil natural surroundings, rich culture, and laid-back lifestyle. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a mix of both, Kampot offers something for every traveler. Before packing your bags, it’s essential to know what to expect, how to get there, what to do, and how to make the most of your visit to this peaceful destination.
Getting There
Kampot is located approximately 150 kilometers southwest of Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital. The journey by road takes about 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic. The most common ways to reach Kampot include bus services, private taxis, or minivans. Several transportation companies like Giant Ibis, Virak Buntham, and Kampot Express offer daily departures from Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, and Kep. For those arriving internationally, the nearest airport is Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH), followed by a scenic road journey to Kampot.
When to Visit
The best time to visit Kampot is during the dry season, which typically spans from November to April. This period offers pleasant weather with clear skies, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The rainy season, from May to October, can also be rewarding if you enjoy lush green landscapes, fewer tourists, and don’t mind occasional showers. Be mindful of potential flooding during heavy rains, particularly if exploring rural or riverside areas.
Where to Stay
Kampot offers a wide range of accommodations, from riverside bungalows and boutique guesthouses to modern hotels and eco-lodges. A standout mid-range choice is Sokchea Kampot Hotel, which offers a comfortable stay in a tranquil setting, blending traditional French Colonial architecture with modern amenities. Located conveniently for both exploring the town and relaxing by the mountain and river scenery, it’s ideal for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.
Getting Around
Getting around Kampot is straightforward. The town center is compact and walkable, especially the area near the river. For exploring the countryside or more distant attractions, motorbike rentals and tuk-tuks are widely available. Motorbike rentals start at about $5–7 per day. Bicycles are also a popular choice for a slower-paced exploration. If you’re not comfortable riding, tuk-tuks and taxis can be hired for half-day or full-day tours at reasonable prices.
Things to Do in Kampot
Despite its small-town charm, Kampot offers a wide range of attractions and activities:
Bokor Mountain National Park – A must-visit, featuring the haunting ruins of Bokor Hill Station, a historic Catholic church, the iconic statue of Lok Yeay Mao, and dramatic panoramic views over the Gulf of Thailand. The scenic winding road to the top is a highlight for riders.
Kampot Pepper Farms – Internationally famous for its aromatic pepper, Kampot is home to several farms like La Plantation and Sothy’s Pepper Farm. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about traditional pepper cultivation and taste the different varieties.
Kampot River – The river is the town’s heartbeat. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, ziplining at Lomhae Dong Prek, or relaxing on sunset cruises. Many riverside cafés and lodges provide perfect spots to unwind with stunning views.
Sunset River Cruise in Kampot
Salt Fields – Kampot’s salt production is a unique industry to observe. Visit during the dry season to see workers harvesting salt in the traditional way across shimmering salt pans.
Kampot Salt field
Caves and Countryside – Discover limestone caves like Phnom Chhngok, which houses a 7th-century brick temple inside, or Phnom Sorsia with its “White Elephant Cave.” Surrounding villages and rice paddies offer a serene glimpse into rural Cambodian life.
Phnom Chhngok
Kep and Rabbit Island – A short drive from Kampot, Kep is known for its crab market and quiet beaches. From Kep’s pier, catch a boat to Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay) for a relaxed beach day or overnight stay in simple bungalows.
Koh Tonsay
Kampot Old Town & Night Market – Stroll the colonial-era streets filled with French-style architecture, quirky shops, art galleries, and riverside cafés. The night market, though small, comes alive with local food, crafts, and music in the evenings.
The Old French Bridge in Kampot
Food and Drink
Kampot’s culinary scene is diverse and delightful. From classic Khmer dishes like amok (coconut curry fish) and lok lak (marinated beef) to Western favorites, there’s no shortage of flavors. The iconic Kampot pepper crab is a local specialty not to be missed.
Recommended spots include:
Epic Arts Café – A social enterprise supporting people with disabilities, offering great food in a welcoming atmosphere.
Café Espresso – Popular among expats and travelers for its excellent coffee and hearty breakfasts.
The town also boasts a selection of riverside bars and live music venues, perfect for a laid-back evening. Happy hour deals and open-mic nights are common, especially on weekends.
Culture and Local Etiquette
Kampot locals are known for their warmth and friendliness. Tourism is growing but still modest compared to places like Siem Reap or Phnom Penh. Modest dress is encouraged, especially when visiting temples or rural villages. A few simple Khmer phrases like “Sua s’dei” (hello) and “Aw kun” (thank you) go a long way. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service.
Currency and Budget
Cambodian Riel (KHR) is the official currency, but US dollars are commonly used. Small denominations are helpful in markets and with tuk-tuks. Kampot is budget-friendly — travelers can get by on $30–50 per day, including meals, transport, and accommodation. Mid-range or luxury stays may cost $60–100+ daily.
Safety and Health
Kampot is generally safe, with low crime rates. Still, use common sense — don’t leave valuables unattended, especially at night. Wear helmets if riding motorbikes and use bottled or filtered water. Local pharmacies can handle minor issues, but for serious medical needs, Phnom Penh offers better facilities. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Final Tips
Connectivity: Wi-Fi is reliable in most hotels and cafés. For mobile data, local SIM cards from Smart or Metfone are inexpensive and widely available.
Electricity: Cambodia uses 230V and plugs of types A, C, and G. Bring a universal adapter if needed.
Eco-Friendly Travel: Respect the environment. Reduce single-use plastics, avoid disturbing wildlife, and support local businesses.
🌞 Morning: Riverside Charm & Local Flavors
Start your day with breakfast by the river—try Café Espresso or another cozy riverside café. Don’t miss the chance to taste Kampot pepper–infused dishes to kick things off with a local twist.
After breakfast, take a walking tour of Kampot’s colonial architecture, admiring pastel French-style shophouses and soaking in the laid-back riverside vibe.
🧀 Mid-Morning: Market & Plantation Discovery
Head to Kampot Central Market, a lively hub full of fresh produce, spices, textiles, and local snacks. Interact with friendly vendors and experience the town’s daily rhythm.
Next, visit a Kampot pepper farm, such as La Plantation, for a guided tour and tasting session of black, white, and red pepper. It’s a signature experience that connects you to the region’s agricultural heritage.
🍽 Lunch: Heartfelt Dining at Epic Arts Café
Enjoy a meaningful lunch at Epic Arts Café, a social enterprise that supports people with disabilities through creative arts and employment.
Their menu includes a mix of Western and Khmer dishes—favorites like the Epic Club Sandwich, banana flower salad, and refreshing smoothies. It’s a great place to relax, recharge, and support a good cause in the heart of Kampot.
🏞 Afternoon: Nature & Exploration
In the afternoon, choose one of these nature-based adventures depending on your interest:
Bokor National Park
Take a scenic drive or tuk-tuk up Bokor Mountain to explore mysterious French colonial ruins, cool forests, waterfalls, and panoramic views over the coast.
Phnom Chhnork Cave Temple
Step into history at a 7th-century cave temple hidden in limestone hills, featuring ancient brick carvings nestled inside a natural cave.
Kayak the “Green Cathedral”
Paddle through serene, tree-lined waterways just outside town. This quiet escape offers a peaceful connection with Kampot’s natural beauty.
🌅 Evening: Scenic Sunset & Culinary Delights
Around 5:00 PM, board a sunset river cruise along the Praek Tuek Chhu River. Watch the skies turn golden, enjoy the breeze, and look out for fireflies as evening sets in.
After the cruise, head to Fishmarket Restaurant or another riverside eatery for fresh seafood and a relaxing dinner ambiance.
End your day with a drink at a riverside bar like The Greenhouse or Nibi Spa, where you can sip a cocktail or enjoy a spa treatment with stunning views of the river.
Kampot pepper (Khmer: ម្រេចកំពត, mrech Kampot; French: poivre de Kampot) is a highly regarded black pepper cultivar grown in Cambodia’s Kampot Province. Historically known as Indochinese pepper during the French protectorate era, it derives its modern name from its cultivation region.
Certified as a geographical indication (GI) product in Cambodia since 2010 and in the European Union since 2016, this status ensures that only pepper from Kampot and Kep provinces can be labeled “Kampot Pepper,” preserving its quality and authenticity.
There are two primary varieties:
Small Leaf Variety (កំចាយ, kamchay)
Big Leaf Variety (lampong or belantoeung)
In 2016, Cambodia produced 11,819 tonnes of black pepper, with Kampot contributing significantly, although most production came from Tbong Khmum. Vietnam, in comparison, is the largest global producer with 155,000 tons in 2014.
The rise in market prices for pepper has led to new plantations in Cambodia, raising concerns about deforestation due to large-scale farming.
Kampot pepper’s distinctive flavor and high quality make it a prized ingredient worldwide. Its rich history, spanning centuries of cultivation, along with strict GI standards, ensure its status as a symbol of Cambodian agricultural excellence and heritage.
Welcome to Sokchea Kampot Hotel, where luxury meets tranquility in the heart of Kampot.
Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of our hotel, where every detail is designed to provide you with a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Relax and unwind in our well-appointed rooms, meticulously designed to offer the utmost comfort and convenience for our guests. Take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains from your private balcony, and let the tranquil ambiance of Kampot wash over you.
Rest easy knowing that modern amenities such as air conditioning, a safety deposit box, and a flat-screen TV are readily available in every room, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Stay connected throughout your visit with complimentary WiFi available throughout the property. Whether you’re catching up on emails or sharing your Kampot adventures with loved ones, our reliable internet service ensures you’re always connected.
Conveniently located near popular attractions such as the Kampot Provincial Museum and Kampot Train Station, our hotel makes it easy for you to explore the rich history and culture of Kampot. For those seeking outdoor adventures, the picturesque Teuk Chhou Rapids are just a short drive away, offering a refreshing escape into nature.
Whether you’re here for business or pleasure, Sokchea Kampot Hotel offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience for your stay in Kampot. We look forward to welcoming you and ensuring you have an unforgettable experience with us.
River Festival 2025: Celebrating Cambodia’s Natural and Cultural Heritage
Cambodia is a country rich in cultural traditions and natural beauty, and one of the most anticipated annual events that showcases this heritage is the River Festival. This festival, which first began in 2015, is held in a different province each year, highlighting the significance of Cambodia’s rivers in the country’s history, tourism, and daily life. In 2025, the 9th River Festival will take place from March 21 to 23 in Takeo province, under the theme “The Value of River: Bridging Culture with Nature Tourism.” This event will serve as a platform to promote tourism, celebrate local culture, and bring economic benefits to the community while emphasizing the importance of protecting Cambodia’s natural waterways
A Celebration of Culture and Tourism
The River Festival is designed to be a vibrant and inclusive event that attracts visitors from across Cambodia and beyond. It features a variety of cultural performances, exhibitions, and interactive experiences that showcase the rich traditions of the host province. Takeo province, known for its ancient temples, serene landscapes, and historical significance, is an ideal location for this event. The festival’s main venue, Takeo Lakeside Park in Daun Keo City, will provide a stunning backdrop for the festivities, allowing visitors to appreciate both the cultural heritage and natural beauty of the region.
The 2025 festival’s theme emphasizes the deep connection between Cambodia’s rivers and its cultural identity. The event will highlight how rivers have played a vital role in Khmer civilization for centuries, serving as essential transportation routes, sources of livelihood, and centers of spiritual significance. By blending cultural performances with eco-tourism activities, the festival aims to encourage sustainable tourism practices and promote the conservation of Cambodia’s natural resources.
Exciting Activities and Attractions
One of the most exciting aspects of the River Festival is the diverse range of activities it offers. Visitors can enjoy traditional music and dance performances, showcasing Cambodia’s artistic heritage. Local artisans will display their crafts, allowing guests to witness and purchase handmade products that reflect the craftsmanship of Takeo’s skilled artisans. Food lovers will have the opportunity to sample traditional Khmer cuisine, with food stalls offering a variety of local dishes.
Beyond cultural experiences, the festival will also feature sports competitions, including canoeing, kayaking, and boat races, which celebrate the strong connection between Cambodian people and their waterways. A 75-kilometer Phnom Penh-Takeo cycling race is expected to draw professional and amateur cyclists alike. Other sports activities, such as fun runs, volleyball, and traditional Khmer martial arts demonstrations, will provide entertainment and participation opportunities for visitors of all ages.
One of the highlights of the event will be the sky lantern displays, where hundreds of lanterns will be released into the night sky, creating a breathtaking visual experience. This tradition is believed to bring good luck and is a favorite attraction for both locals and tourists.
Economic and Social Impact
The River Festival is not only a celebration but also an important economic and social event. By attracting thousands of visitors, it provides a significant boost to local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and transportation services. The festival also creates opportunities for local entrepreneurs and artisans to showcase their products and generate income.
In preparation for the festival, the Ministry of Tourism has issued guidelines to ensure high-quality services for visitors.
Local vendors are encouraged to decorate their stalls in ways that reflect Khmer culture and the unique identity of Takeo province. Authorities are working closely with businesses to maintain fair pricing, ensure cleanliness, and provide sufficient parking spaces to accommodate large crowds. These efforts aim to enhance the visitor experience and establish Takeo as a premier tourist destination.
A Tradition of Success
Since its launch in 2015, the River Festival has been hosted in different provinces, each offering a unique cultural and natural backdrop. In 2024, the event was held in Siem Reap and attracted over 500,000 visitors, making it one of the most successful editions of the festival. The event was temporarily suspended in 2021 and 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic but resumed in 2023 with great enthusiasm. The 2025 edition in Takeo is expected to continue this success, drawing even larger crowds and further solidifying the festival’s role in Cambodia’s tourism industry.
