Visiting Cambodia’s National Parks and forests offers adventure, biodiversity, and cultural insights. From lush landscapes to sacred sites, travelers can explore diverse ecosystems, support conservation efforts, and enjoy activities like trekking and wildlife spotting. These forests provide a tranquil escape and educational opportunities, making them a rewarding destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Visit National Parks in Cambodia
- Phnom Kulen National Park: Situated in the Siem Reap province, Phnom Kulen National Park is a sacred site for Cambodians, known as the birthplace of the Khmer Empire. The park features beautiful waterfalls, ancient temples, and the famous reclining Buddha statue. Visitors can swim in the waterfalls, explore historical sites, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Kulen Mountains.
- Cardamom Mountains: While not a single national park, the Cardamom Mountains region is a vast area of protected forests and wildlife sanctuaries in southwestern Cambodia. It is one of Southeast Asia’s most significant conservation areas, home to endangered species like the Asian elephant and the Indochinese tiger. Visitors can engage in eco-tourism activities such as jungle treks, wildlife spotting, and visiting indigenous communities.
These national parks offer a glimpse into Cambodia’s rich natural heritage, providing opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and wildlife exploration.
Eco-Tourism in the Cardamom Mountains
The Cardamom Mountains, located in southwestern Cambodia, are one of Southeast Asia’s largest and most significant rainforest regions. Known for their incredible biodiversity and pristine natural environments, the Cardamoms are becoming an increasingly popular destination for eco-tourism.
Getting to National Parks
Cardamom Mountains
- From Phnom Penh:
- By Road: Take a bus or hire a private taxi from Phnom Penh to Koh Kong town, the gateway to the Cardamom Mountains. The journey takes approximately 4-5 hours.
- By Flight: Fly from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville and then travel overland to Koh Kong.
- From Siem Reap:
- By Road: Take a bus or taxi to Pursat or Battambang, where you can arrange transportation further into the Cardamom Mountains. The journey from Siem Reap to Pursat or Battambang takes around 3-4 hours.
- Transport within Cardamom Mountains:
- Once in Koh Kong or other entry points, you may need to hire a local guide or join a tour operator specializing in eco-tourism to explore the remote areas of the Cardamom Mountains.
Phnom Kulen
- From Siem Reap:
- By Road: Phnom Kulen is about 50 km northeast of Siem Reap. You can hire a taxi or tuk-tuk for a day trip, which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours one way.
- By Tour: Many tour companies in Siem Reap offer day trips to Phnom Kulen, including transportation and a guide.
- Transport within Phnom Kulen:
- Local guides and vehicles can be arranged upon arrival at Phnom Kulen. Some sites are accessible by car, while others may require hiking or walking.
