The Equinox Angkor is one of the most popular events

The Equinox Angkor is a special solar phenomenon that occurs twice a year at Angkor Wat in Cambodia. The first event, called the Vernal Equinox, typically occurs between March 21st and 23rd from 5:00 AM to 6:30 AM. The second event, known as the Autumnal Equinox, usually takes place in September.

The Equinox Angkor is one of the most popular events, attracting tourists from around the globe as well as local Cambodians. During these events, thousands of visitors gather in front of the western entrance of the Angkor Wat temple, waiting to witness and capture photos of the breathtaking sunrise.

Related Blog

If you’re planning a trip to Cambodia, getting a visa no longer has to be a hassle. Thanks to the Cambodia e-Visa system, travelers can now apply for a tourist visa entirely online, saving both time and effort.

 

The Cambodia e-Visa is available to citizens of most countries and is intended strictly for tourism purposes. If you’re traveling for business, work, or any other reason, youโ€™ll need to apply through a Cambodian embassy instead. The e-Visa is valid for three months from the date of issue and allows for a single entry into Cambodia, with a maximum stay of 30 days.

 

One of the great benefits of the e-Visa is that it can be used at several key points of entry. You can enter Cambodia through Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, or Sihanoukville International Airports. If you’re arriving by land, the e-Visa is accepted at Bavet (from Vietnam), Poipet (from Thailand), and Cham Yeam (also from Thailand).

 

The application process is quick and simple. It usually takes about three business days for approval. All you need is a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining, a recent passport-style photo (digital format), a valid email address, and a credit or debit card for payment. The cost is typically around $36 USD, which includes a small processing fee.

 

To apply, just visit the official Cambodia e-Visa website at https://www.evisa.gov.kh. Fill out the online form, upload your photo, and pay the fee. Once approved, your e-Visa will be sent to your email. Be sure to print a copy and bring it with you when you travel.

 

The Cambodia e-Visa makes visiting this beautiful and culturally rich country easier than ever. Whether you’re planning to explore Angkor Wat, relax on the beaches of Sihanoukville, or discover the vibrant capital of Phnom Penh, getting your visa is now one less thing to worry about.

Also called Ancestorโ€™sโ€™ 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 โ€˜gathering together to make offeringsโ€™, and thatโ€™s exactly what families do when they visit the pagodas.

Enjoy your wonderful family reunion!

La Plantation was founded inย 2013ย by a French-Cambodian couple,ย Nathalie and Guy Porrรฉ, who were deeply inspired by Cambodiaโ€™s cultural richness and agricultural potential. After discovering the deep heritage ofย Kampot Pepper once prized by chefs around the world โ€” 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.

๐ŸŒฟ 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 toย La Plantationย โ€” a world-renowned pepper farm and agro-tourism destination. Nestled among the lush green hills just outside Kampot city, La Plantation isnโ€™t just a pepper farm โ€” itโ€™s a living story of tradition, sustainability, and the unforgettable taste ofย Kampot Pepper, Cambodiaโ€™s culinary treasure.

๐Ÿซš What Makes La Plantation Special?

La Plantationย is one of the leading producers of certified organic Kampot pepper โ€” a product recognized globally with aย 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 Cambodiaโ€™s spice culture.

๐ŸŒฑ 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, youโ€™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

Youโ€™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.

๐Ÿง‚ Taste the Difference: Kampot Pepper Tasting

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

  • Sample the various types of Kampot pepper each with its unique aroma and flavor
  • Try their famousย 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.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ Khmer Cuisine Meets French Flair

La Plantation also features a charming on-siteย 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 creamย (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.

โค๏ธ 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.

๐Ÿงญ How to Get There from Sokchea Kampot Hotel

La Plantation is aboutย 25โ€“30 minutesย from Kampot town. Here are your options:

  • Tuk-tuk: A scenic countryside ride
  • Shuttle or private car: We can help arrange transport for you โ€” 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.

๐ŸŒŸ Donโ€™t Miss This Unique Kampot Experience

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

๐ŸŒฟ Discover Prek Thnout Community-Based Ecotourism
An authentic eco-adventure near Bokor National Park, Kampot Province

Prek Thnout Overview

Nestled between lush evergreen forests and the mangrove-lined coast of southern Cambodia, Prek Thnout Community-Based Ecotourism Site is a peaceful haven for nature lovers, cultural travelers, and anyone seeking a responsible travel experience.

๐ŸŒฑ About the Community
Established in 2007 with support from the NGO Save Cambodiaโ€™s Wildlife (SCW), Prek Thnout is one of Cambodiaโ€™s most respected community-run ecotourism projects. Located at the foothills of the Bokor Mountain range, the site offers refreshing nature, rich biodiversity, and a chance to support local livelihoods.

๐Ÿพ Things to Do
๐ŸŒณ Nature & Wildlife
Walk along wooden boardwalks through mangroves to scenic waterfalls.
Spot local wildlife including monkeys, fireflies, forest birds, dolphins, and even dugongs.
Take a night boat ride to witness glowing fireflies lighting up the trees.

๐Ÿง— Adventure & Relaxation
Go on a guided hike to a secluded Blue Water Pool and swim in its clear stream.
Explore forest trails dotted with orchids, bamboo, and passionfruit plants.
Chill in a hammock while enjoying peaceful village life.
Forest walk

๐Ÿฝ Culture & Local Crafts
Join locals in cooking traditional Khmer meals like BBQ chicken and fresh seafood.
Visit the rattan weaving center, and shop for handmade products such as bamboo tools, herbal goods, and natural crafts.

๐Ÿ’ฐ Pricing & Amenities
Entrance fee: $3 per person โ€“ this helps support the local community.
Boat rental: $30 per boat (can accommodate up to 15 people).
Local guide: 3pergroupofupto10people.Ifyourtriplastslonger, it’s $1 for each additional hour.
Traditional meal: $3 per person โ€“ enjoy local dishes like BBQ chicken and fresh seafood.
Facilities include basic toilets, electricity, and a simple guesthouse where you can stay overnight. There is no Wi-Fi, which makes it the perfect place to unplug and enjoy nature.

 

๐Ÿš— Getting There โ€“ From Sokchea Kampot Hotel
Map sign

Distance: About 28 km
Travel Time: Around 32 minutes by car or tuk-tuk
Directions:

Start from Sokchea Kampot Hotel in Kampot.
Drive west on National Road No. 3 toward Sihanoukville.
After passing the KM 174 marker (174 km from Phnom Penh), cross a small bridge.
Look for the Prek Thnout Ecotourism sign and turn right onto a dirt road.
Continue about 5 more minutes to reach the community center.
๐Ÿ›ต Tip: Private tuk-tuk or car is best. Motorbike is possible in dry season. No direct public transport is available.

๐Ÿ“† Best Time to Visit
Dry Season (November to May) is the best time to visit. Waterfalls are flowing, trails are dry, and wildlife activity is high.
Rainy Season brings lush greenery but some areas can be muddy or harder to reach.
๐ŸŒŸ Why Visit Prek Thnout?
It’s 100% community-operated.
Your visit directly supports conservation, education, and local livelihoods.
A genuine, responsible travel experience โ€” far from the crowds and mass tourism.
๐Ÿ—“ Suggested Half-Day Itinerary
Lunch and waterfall

Arrive in the morning and meet your local host.
Enjoy a delicious BBQ chicken lunch prepared by the villagers.
Hike to the Blue Water Pool and take a refreshing swim.
Explore the mangrove boardwalk and look for birds and monkeys.
Visit the local weaving center and support handmade crafts.
Relax in a hammock before heading back to Kampot in the afternoon.

โ€‹Kampot has recently introduced a captivating musical water fountain show, popularly referred to as the “Water Dance,” which has become a weekend highlight for local tourists. This attraction features water jets choreographed to dance in harmony with music, creating a mesmerizing display that enhances the city’s nighttime ambiance. The initiative aims to showcase Kampot’s creativity after sunset and has successfully drawn local visitors seeking evening entertainment. โ€‹

In addition to the Water Dance, Kampot offers various water-related activities that contribute to its vibrant tourism scene. The annual Bon Om Touk, or Cambodian Water Festival, celebrated in November, features boat races and festivities along the river, providing both participants and spectators with a lively cultural experience.

For those interested in more active pursuits, the Arcadia Waterpark offers a range of water-based attractions, including a large water slide, Russian swing, and the “Blob,” catering to adventure seekers looking for excitement along the river. โ€‹

These diverse offerings, from the enchanting Water Dance to cultural festivals and adventure parks, highlight Kampot’s commitment to providing unique and engaging experiences for visitors.

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.ย  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. ย 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.