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Kampot, a small town in Cambodia, is renowned for its pepper farms, riverside views, and colonial architecture. It produces the world-famous Kampot pepper, prized by chefs globally. Visitors explore Bokor Hill Station, take river cruises, and savour fresh seafood at the Crab Market. With its relaxed charm and rich history, Kampot offers a refreshing escape for those looking to experience Cambodia beyond its major cities.
Location
Photo: Hans A. Rosbach / Wikimedia Commons
Kampot is situated in southern Cambodia, near the Gulf of Thailand. It lies 150 km southwest of Phnom Penh, making it a popular weekend getaway. Bokor National Park borders the town to the west and is close to the Vietnamese border.
How To Reach
Photo: Elmschrat / Wikimedia Commons
You can reach Kampot by air, bus, or rail, with convenient connections from Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, and other nearby cities:
By Air: There is no direct airport in Kampot. The nearest international airport is Phnom Penh International Airport, around 150 km away. From the airport, travellers can take a taxi, bus, or private car to Kampot.
By Bus: Regular buses and minivans operate from Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, and Kep to Kampot. The journey from Phnom Penh takes about 3 – 4 hours, while Sihanoukville is just 2 hours away.
By Rail: Cambodia’s railway service offers a scenic train ride from Phnom Penh to Kampot. The journey takes around 5 – 6 hours and provides a unique travel experience through the countryside.
Places To Visit In And Around Kampot
Explore the best places to visit in and around Kampot, from scenic riverside spots to historic sites and natural attractions:
1. Bokor Hill Station
Photo: Matnkat / Wikimedia Commons
Bokor Hill Station is an old French colonial retreat located within Bokor National Park. It was built in the 1920s as a cool escape from Cambodia’s heat. The area has many abandoned buildings, including an old casino, a church, and the Bokor Palace Hotel. The hill station played a role in Cambodia’s history, serving as a military base during conflicts. Today, visitors can explore the old structures, ride up winding roads, and take photos with fog-covered views.
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: 20,000 KHR / ₹400
2. Kampot Salt Fields
Photo: James Antrobus / Wikimedia Commons
Kampot Salt Fields are an important part of the local economy and provide a unique experience for visitors. These fields are used for traditional salt harvesting, which occurs during the dry season when seawater evaporates, leaving behind natural sea salt. Local workers use simple tools to collect and refine the salt, a process that has remained unchanged for generations. Visitors can walk around the fields, observe the harvesting process, and learn about the importance of salt production in Cambodia.
Timings: Open throughout the day
Entry Fee: Free
3. La Plantation
Photo: PsamatheM / Wikimedia Commons
La Plantation is one of the largest pepper farms in Kampot and an important place for organic farming. The farm follows traditional growing methods without chemicals, making its pepper highly valued worldwide. Guided tours teach visitors about Kampot pepper history and how farmers cultivate it. There are free tasting sessions where people can compare different pepper types. Visitors can also take cooking classes to learn how to use Kampot pepper in local recipes.
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: Free
4. Kampot River
Photo: Hans A. Rosbach / Wikimedia Commons
The Kampot River runs through the town and is a central part of local life. People use it for transport and tourism. Boat tours, including sunset cruises, offer a chance to see fireflies at night. Kayaking and paddleboarding are other activities on the river. Many guesthouses and restaurants are located along the riverbank, making it a relaxing place to spend time. Some tour operators offer tubing, where visitors float down the river on an inflatable tube.
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: Boat ride: 15,000 KHR / ₹300
5. Kep Beach & Crab Market
Photo: PsamatheM / Wikimedia Commons
Kep Beach is a short drive from Kampot and is known for its fresh seafood and calm waters. The beach has a small stretch of sand where visitors can relax, swim, or rent a hammock. The Crab Market is a popular spot where fishermen bring fresh crabs every morning. The market has many small restaurants serving crab dishes cooked with Kampot pepper. Vendors also sell fresh seafood that visitors can buy and cook later. People can watch fishermen pull in their nets and clean crabs on the shore.
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: Free
Where To Stay
Photo: lequangutc89 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Accommodation in Kampot ranges from budget guesthouses to boutique riverside resorts. For backpackers, hostels like Yellow Sun Hostel offer dorm rooms and social activities. Mid-range travellers can opt for Kampot Riverside Hotel, which provides comfortable stays with great views. Those looking for a luxury experience can stay at Amber Kampot, a high-end riverside resort offering private villas and spa services.
Where To Eat
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Food lovers will find plenty of options in Kampot. Rikitikitavi serves Cambodian and Western dishes with a river view, while Epic Arts Café is a popular spot for breakfast and supports a social cause. For fresh seafood, the Twenty-three Bistro in Kampot is highly recommended. Vegetarian travellers can check out Simple Things, which offers delicious plant-based meals.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Hans A. Rosbach / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Kampot is from November to March when the weather is cool and dry. This period is ideal for outdoor activities like exploring Bokor Hill Station and taking boat rides on the river. April and May can be hot, while the rainy season from June to October brings heavy showers, making some attractions less accessible.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Hans A. Rosbach / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip: The trip cost to Kampot depends on travel style. Budget travellers can spend around 100,000 KHR / ₹2,000 per day, covering food, transport, and budget accommodation. Mid-range travellers may spend 250,000 KHR / ₹5,000 per day, while luxury travellers can expect to spend 500,000 KHR / ₹ 10,000 or more per day for high-end hotels and private tours.
Tips For Travellers
- Carry cash, as many places in Kampot do not accept credit or debit cards, especially in markets and small shops.
- Rent a motorbike for convenient and flexible travel around town and to explore nearby attractions.
- Savour local dishes made with Kampot pepper, a regional specialty renowned for its rich flavour, be sure to try it in both seafood and meat dishes.
- Book your accommodation in advance, particularly during the peak season, as popular guesthouses and hotels can fill up quickly.
- Respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting temples or rural villages; covering shoulders and knees is recommended.
Kampot blends history, local culture, and outdoor adventures. Explore colonial-era buildings, visit renowned pepper farms, and enjoy scenic boat rides on the river. This charming town offers a unique experience beyond typical tourist spots in Cambodia. Discover Kampot’s rich heritage and natural beauty with TripXL for an unforgettable journey. Book your trip today and immerse yourself in this captivating destination.
Cover Photo: Hans A. Rosbach / Wikimedia Commons
