The Kampot International Tourism Port

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.

We are incredibly honored to receive the Travelers Review Award 2025 from Booking.com! This recognition is a true testament to the dedication of our team at Sokchea Kampot Hotel and, most importantly, to the trust and support of our wonderful guests. We sincerely thank each and every guest who took the time to share their experiences and reviews on Booking.com. Your kind words and valuable feedback inspire us to continuously improve and provide the best hospitality possible.

At Sokchea Kampot Hotel, we are committed to offering warm and welcoming stays, ensuring every guest enjoys a peaceful retreat by the beautiful riverside of Kampot. Whether you visit for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or simply a relaxing escape, we take great pride in delivering exceptional service and unforgettable moments.

This award motivates us to strive for even greater excellence in the years to come. Thank you again to Booking.com for this prestigious recognition and to all our guests for making this achievement possible. We look forward to welcoming you again soon and creating more memorable experiences together!

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:

1. Small Leaf Variety (កំចាយ, kamchay)
2. 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.

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.

Jasmine Spa Kampot is a charming and peaceful wellness retreat located in the heart of Kampot town, making it one of the nearest and most convenient spas for guests staying at Sokchea Kampot Hotel. Nestled along Dragon Street, the spa offers a relaxing garden atmosphere and beautifully designed treatment rooms, allowing visitors to unwind from a day of exploration or long travels. With a warm welcome and professional therapists, the spa creates a calming environment where guests can fully embrace rest and rejuvenation.

Jasmine Spa Kampot provides a wide range of treatments to suit every guest’s preference. Their services include Khmer traditional massage, aromatherapy oil massage, foot reflexology, facial treatments, body scrubs, manicure and pedicure, and waxing. Each therapy is carried out with great care and attention, using quality products to ensure relaxation and wellness. Whether you are seeking to relieve muscle tension, improve blood circulation, or simply enjoy a peaceful moment, this spa delivers a satisfying experience for both body and mind.

From Sokchea Kampot Hotel, getting to Jasmine Spa Kampot is easy and quick. It is just around five to ten minutes away by Tuk Tuk or motorbike, traveling through Kampot’s charming quiet streets toward Dragon Street. Guests can also enjoy a leisurely walk if they prefer, as the spa is located less than a kilometer from the hotel.

For inquiries or reservations, Jasmine Spa Kampot can be contacted at +855 12 226 447 or +855 15 262 447. A visit to this spa promises soothing comfort and the perfect break during your stay in Kampot.