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.
A Sunset River Cruise in Kampot is a popular activity that allows visitors to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Kampot River while witnessing a breathtaking sunset. Kampot River and its picturesque surroundings. The river is flanked by lush greenery, and you’ll have the opportunity to admire the natural beauty of the area as you cruise along. Sunset River Cruises in Kampot are known for their relaxed and laid-back atmosphere.
You’ll have the chance to unwind and enjoy the tranquil surroundings as you cruise along the river. The highlight of the Sunset River Cruise is, of course, the sunset itself. As the sun begins to set on the horizon, casting a golden glow over the river, you’ll have a front-row seat to this breathtaking natural spectacle. The colors of the sky change from hues of orange to pink and purple, creating a magical ambiance. Many Sunset River Cruises in Kampot offer complimentary drinks and refreshments onboard. You can sip on a refreshing beverage as you soak in the views and enjoy the sunset.
The stunning sunset and scenic views along the Kampot River provide excellent opportunities for photography. Whether you’re an amateur photographer or a seasoned pro, you’ll want to capture the beauty of the sunset and the surrounding landscape. Some Sunset River Cruises may include live music or entertainment onboard, adding to the overall ambiance and enjoyment of the experience. Sunset River Cruises in Kampot typically last for around 1-2 hours, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience without it feeling rushed.
Overall, a Sunset River Cruise in Kampot offers a memorable and enchanting experience that allows you to witness one of nature’s most beautiful phenomena while enjoying the serene beauty of the Kampot River. It’s a perfect way to unwind and create lasting memories during your visit to Kampot.
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.
Kampot is one of Cambodia’s most charming and laid-back destinations, known for its peaceful riverside setting, French colonial architecture, and stunning natural attractions. Whether you’re here to explore the famous pepper plantations, cruise along the Kampot River, or take a trip up Bokor Mountain, Sokchea Kampot Hotel offers the perfect base for your stay. Ideally located just minutes from the town center, our hotel provides easy access to popular restaurants, cafés, and local markets, while still offering a quiet, relaxing atmosphere away from the noise. Our spacious, clean, and modern rooms are designed with your comfort in mind, featuring air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and comfortable bedding to ensure a restful night’s sleep. What truly sets Sokchea Kampot Hotel apart is our commitment to personalized service. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff are always ready to help—from recommending the best spots to visit, to assisting with motorbike rentals or arranging local tours. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, you’ll find a welcoming and peaceful environment that feels like a home away from home. If you’re looking for quality, value, and a convenient location during your Kampot visit, Sokchea Kampot Hotel is the ideal choice.
🌞 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, a charming riverside town in southern Cambodia, offers a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural experiences. Here are some things to do in Kampot:
Explore Bokor National Park: Take a trip to Bokor Mountain, where you can explore the national park’s lush rainforest, visit the old French hill station, and see the abandoned buildings, including the Bokor Palace Hotel.
Cruise along the Kampot River: Enjoy a leisurely boat cruise along the scenic Kampot River. You can take a sunset cruise or opt for a daytime excursion, which often includes stops at riverside villages and opportunities for swimming or kayaking.
Visit Kampot Pepper Farms: Kampot is renowned for its high-quality pepper. Visit one of the local pepper farms to learn about the cultivation process and sample some of the world-famous Kampot pepper.
Explore Kampot Town: Wander around Kampot’s picturesque streets lined with colonial-era buildings, boutique shops, and art galleries. Don’t miss the Old Market, where you can sample local snacks and shop for souvenirs.
Take a Kampot Pepper Farm Tour: Go on a guided tour of one of the pepper farms in the area to learn about the cultivation process of Kampot pepper, which is renowned for its unique flavor and aroma.
Visit Salt Fields: Take a trip to the nearby salt fields, where you can observe the traditional method of salt production and learn about the importance of salt in Cambodian cuisine and culture.
Explore Kep: Kep, famous for its seafood and relaxed atmosphere, is just a short drive away from Kampot. Visit the Kep Crab Market, relax on the beach, or hike up to Kep National Park for panoramic views of the coastline.
Try Water Sports: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the serene waters of the Kampot River. You can also try your hand at windsurfing or kiteboarding if you’re feeling adventurous.
Visit Phnom Chhnork Cave: Explore the ancient Phnom Chhnork Cave, which features a Hindu temple dating back to the 7th century. The cave is located a short drive from Kampot and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Sample Local Cuisine: Don’t leave Kampot without trying some of the local delicacies, such as fish amok, crab with Kampot pepper, or grilled squid. There are plenty of restaurants and street food stalls where you can taste authentic Cambodian dishes.
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.
