Discovering Kirirom National Park: Cambodia's Mountain of Joy

As October marks the end of Cambodia's rainy season—or "green season" as locals call it—I recently embarked on a refreshing getaway to Kirirom National Park with friends. Just a 2-hour drive from Phnom Penh, this natural paradise offers a welcome escape from the capital's hustle and bustle.

A Natural Highland Paradise

Located in Kampong Speu province about 112 kilometers southwest of Phnom Penh, Kirirom National Park spans approximately 35,000 hectares of stunning natural beauty. Established in 1993, the park is renowned for its distinctive pine forests, cool mountain climate, and breathtaking scenery.

At an elevation of 675 meters above sea level, Kirirom—aptly named "Mountain of Joy" in Khmer—provides a refreshing retreat from Cambodia's typically hot and humid weather.

Our Journey Through Kirirom

We began our adventure by stopping at the foothill to buy lunch before heading up the mountain. While there are plenty of eateries on the mountain itself, we wanted to enjoy a picnic by the lake.

The drive from the foothill to the summit takes approximately 30 minutes to an hour. Along the way, we stopped at Thi Bei Tuek Chroh (Third Waterfall) where rows of wooden huts provide perfect spots for dining and relaxation. For about $5, you can rent a hut for lunch, though many locals bring their own food and drinks.

After our lakeside lunch, we visited Thansur Kirirom, one of the park's most popular destinations. This spot is ideal for photography and relaxation, featuring cafés and restaurants with stunning views from the mountain's edge. It's also a perfect location to watch the sunset if you stay until evening.

Chambok Waterfall: A Community Ecotourism Gem

Our final stop was the magnificent Chambok Waterfall in the southern part of the park. This impressive 40-meter waterfall cascades into a natural pool, surrounded by lush vegetation and pine forests. Entrance fee $3.00 for foreigners and 5000 Riels for local.

What makes Chambok special is not just its natural beauty but also the community-based ecotourism initiative that manages it. Established in 2002, the project involves nine surrounding villages working together to preserve their natural resources while creating sustainable livelihoods through tourism.

Reaching the waterfall requires a pleasant 3-kilometer hike through the forest. The trail is well-maintained and relatively easy, taking about 40 minutes to complete. During our October visit, the waterfall was particularly impressive with strong water flow creating misty conditions at its base.

Activities for Every Nature Lover

Kirirom National Park offers numerous activities for visitors:

Hiking and Trekking

• Explore well-marked trails through pine forests

• Visit the "Chambok Trail" for stunning viewpoints

• Take the "Sunset Rock" trail for spectacular sunset views

• Trek to hidden waterfalls, particularly beautiful during the rainy season

Wildlife and Bird Watching

• Spot wildlife including deer, wild boars, and numerous bird species

• Visit the butterfly garden to see colorful tropical species

• Join guided tours with local rangers who can point out wildlife

Photography

• Capture stunning landscapes of pine forests and mountain vistas

• Photograph colorful sunsets from designated viewpoints

• Document beautiful wildflowers during the wet season

Mountain Biking

• Rent bicycles at the park entrance or bring your own

• Follow designated cycling paths through the forest

• Enjoy the cool mountain air while exploring on two wheels

Practical Information for Visitors

Check-out Vireak Buntham Express. Go to their counter for advise.

How to Get There

From Phnom Penh, you have several options:

• By Car/Taxi: The most convenient option, taking about 2-2.5 hours via National Road 4. A private taxi costs approximately $40-50 one way.

• By Bus: Take and dropped at the Kirirom National Park or or Traeng Trayueng. From there, take a motorbike taxi for the remaining 15km to the park entrance.

• By Tour: Several tour companies in Phnom Penh offer day trips or overnight packages.

Entrance Fees

• Foreigners: $5 per person

• Cambodians: 5,000 Riel (approximately $1.25)

• Vehicle parking fees may apply separately

Best Time to Visit

Kirirom can be visited year-round, but the best times are:

• Dry season (November to April): Ideal for hiking and outdoor activities with clear skies and cooler temperatures

• Rainy season (May to October): Less crowded, with waterfalls at their most impressive and lush greenery

What to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots

• Light jacket or sweater (temperatures can drop in the evenings)

• Insect repellent

• Sunscreen and hat

• Water and snacks

• Camera

Accommodation Options

From tents to unique bus hotels, there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from. Check out your favorite travel and hotel apps to find out more.

Kirirom National Park offers a unique mountain experience in Cambodia, away from the more touristy areas, making it perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat from city life.