Kampot, a town in southern Cambodia, is known for its colonial-era architecture, rich history, and strong ties to the country’s pepper trade. The various things to do in Kampot often connect to its past, with well-preserved buildings reflecting its French colonial influence. The town sits along a river, where traditional markets and old shopfronts showcase local life. Kampot was once a major trading hub and has retained its cultural identity while continuing to develop. Its streets, heritage sites, and local businesses highlight Cambodia’s history and economy, making it a place that reflects both the past and the present.
Top Things To Do In Kampot, Cambodia
Here is a list of the best things to do in Kampot, showcasing its history, culture, and local attractions:
1. Visiting The Bokor National Park
Photo: Mx. Granger / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Visiting Bokor National Park offers a mix of history and nature. The park features abandoned structures from a past era, providing insight into its former use. The cooler climate adds a refreshing change, and the winding roads create a sense of exploration. Visitors can see remnants of old buildings, with plants and trees slowly taking over parts of the structures. The park also provides expansive views, making it a notable stop for photography enthusiasts. The combination of historical ruins and scenic landscapes makes visiting this place one of the best things to do in Kampot, Cambodia.
Location: Bokor National Park, Kampot Province
Average Cost: Around $10 – $20 (₹ 872.03 – ₹ 1744.06)
Ideal Duration: 2-4 hours
2. Go Kayaking
Photo: Surprising_SnapShots / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Kayaking in the river offers visitors a unique way to explore the area. The calm waters provide an ideal setting for a relaxed paddle, allowing a closer view of the plant life along the riverbanks. The steady flow of the water makes it suitable for both beginners and more experienced kayakers. As visitors paddle, they can enjoy shaded spots along the route, making the experience more comfortable even during warmer weather. Kayaking is one of the best things to do in Kampot, Cambodia, offering a peaceful and engaging way to discover the natural beauty of the river and its surroundings.
Location: Kampot River, Kampot
Average Cost: Around $28 (₹ 2441.69)
Ideal Duration: 3 hours
3. Visit A Kampot Pepper Farm
Photo: PsamatheM / Wikimedia Commons
Visiting a Kampot pepper farm is one of the top things to do in Kampot. It allows visitors to learn about the region’s famous pepper cultivation. The farm tours provide insight into the unique conditions that make Kampot pepper so highly regarded, from the planting process to the harvesting of the peppercorns. Visitors can watch traditional drying and sorting methods and taste different pepper varieties. This hands-on experience gives a deeper understanding of the agricultural practices and cultural significance behind the product, making it an informative and authentic activity in the area.
Location: Kampot Pepper Farms, Kampot Province
Average Cost: Around $10 – $25 (₹872.03 – ₹2180.08) for a tour
Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
4. Explore The Salt Fields
Photo: douglasjonesjr / Wikimedia Commons
Exploring the salt fields in Kampot allows visitors to learn about traditional salt production methods still used today. The fields change as the process moves forward, with pools of water evaporating to leave behind salt. Visitors can often see workers collecting the salt, showing how it’s done by hand. The wide, open fields create a unique landscape, different from the nearby areas. Understanding the production stages helps visitors appreciate the effort needed to create this everyday product. It’s an interesting experience that offers a look into a time-honoured craft.
Location: Kampot Salt Fields, Kampot, Cambodia
Average Cost: Free, around $5 (₹436.02) for a guided tour
Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
5. Hike To Phnom Chhngok Cave Temple
Photo: Anonymous/ Pxhere / Image For Representation Only
Hiking to Phnom Chhngok Cave Temple allows visitors to explore a historic Hindu temple built into a natural limestone cave. The temple, dating back to the 6th century, features detailed carvings and inscriptions, reflecting the region’s ancient spiritual practices. Visitors will encounter striking rock formations as they approach the site, making the journey more memorable. For those interested in cultural heritage, this hike provides a meaningful look at both the natural landscape and the temple’s historical significance, making it one of the best things to do in Kampot, Cambodia.
Location: Phnom Chhngok, Kampot, Cambodia
Average Cost: Around $5 – $10 (₹ 436.02 – ₹ 872.03)
Ideal Duration: 2-3 hours
6. Stroll Through Kampot Town
Photo: Lutz Maertens / Wikimedia Commons
Exploring Kampot Town on foot offers visitors a closer look at daily life in the area. The streets feature a mix of colonial-era buildings and modern structures, showcasing the town’s history. Local markets are filled with fresh produce, spices, and handmade items, offering a glimpse into the region’s agricultural and craft traditions. Shops and eateries line the streets, providing local products and dishes. This laid-back atmosphere and the variety of sights make walking through the town one of the best things to do in Kampot, Cambodia.
Location: Kampot Town Centre
Average Cost: Free (depends on purchases made)
Ideal Duration: 2-3 hours
7. Visit Wat Sampov Pram
Photo: PsamatheM / Wikimedia Commons
Visiting Wat Sampov Pram offers insight into Kampot’s local culture and traditions. The site is home to traditional structures and detailed carvings, each representing different aspects of Cambodian beliefs. Visitors can explore the area at their own pace, taking in the peaceful surroundings. The quiet environment makes it ideal for reflection, while the site remains a place of worship for the local community. For those interested in understanding the spiritual and cultural significance of the region, this visit is one of the best things to do in Kampot.
Location: Wat Sampov Pram, Kampot Province
Average Cost: Around $29 to $100 (₹2528.89 – ₹8720.30)
Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
8. See The Old Bridge
Photo: Hans A. Rosbach / Wikimedia Commons
Exploring the Old Bridge is one of the best things to do in Kampot. As one of the area’s historical landmarks, the bridge reflects an earlier architectural style, with visible contrasts between older and modern construction materials. Walking across the bridge provides a close-up view of its unique design. It offers a perspective on how it has evolved. Visitors can enjoy views of the surrounding landscape while learning about the significance of the bridge in connecting different parts of the town. For those interested in Kampot’s heritage, the Old Bridge is a quiet and meaningful stop for exploration.
Location: Old Bridge, Kampot Town
Average Cost: Free
Ideal Duration: 30 minutes – 1 hour
9. Visit Kampot Provincial Museum
Photo: Marcin Konsek / Wikimedia Commons
A visit to Kampot Provincial Museum provides an informative look into the region’s history. The museum features local artifacts, photographs, and objects highlighting Kampot’s cultural and industrial past. Sections of the museum focus on different periods, offering visitors a chance to learn about the area’s history in a well-structured way. The museum is an excellent stop for those interested in understanding Kampot and its heritage. It provides a valuable insight into the local culture, making it one of the key things to do in Kampot.
Location: 735 Kampot Sala Khet Street, Kampong Bay
Average Cost: $2 (₹174.41) for entry
Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
10. Go To Phnom Daung Viewpoint
Photo: Piseth Mao / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Visiting Phnom Daung Viewpoint offers a chance to enjoy panoramic views of Kampot’s natural surroundings. The elevated location provides an excellent spot for photography or simply appreciating the area’s beauty. There are several viewpoints along the way, each offering a slightly different perspective. Visiting at different times of day offers a unique experience, as the weather and lighting change the view. This makes the viewpoint a versatile spot to enjoy Kampot’s remarkable scenery.
Location: Phnom Daung Viewpoint, Kampot, Cambodia
Average Cost: Free
Ideal Duration: 1-2 hours
The things to do in Kampot provide an engaging mix of cultural, historical, and natural experiences. From kayaking along the Kampot River to exploring the town’s historical sites, plenty of activities highlight the town’s unique heritage. These experiences allow visitors to connect with Kampot’s past and present. For a smooth and enjoyable journey, book your trip with TripXL to explore the best activities in Kampot.
Cover Photo: Marcin Konsek / Wikimedia Commons