Krong Kep, Cambodia

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Getting to Kep

KAMPOT to/from KEP
 

‘Start at the durian, left at the dove, past the rhino, right at the white horse, on to the blue crab, and you’re there.’

The road from Kampot to Kep is paved and picturesque. It’s a 25km, 30-45 minute trip though scenic Cambodian countryside. There are some newly broken stretches of pavement but that will probably be repaired after the end of the wet season.

From Kampot, follow the Road 33 east to the White Horse Monument intersection. Bear right. At the next main turnoff (a small roundabout with a Vishnu statue,) turn right onto the oceanfront road to go to the Crab Market or continue straight past to Kep Beach.

**Motorcyclists, be aware of some uneven pavement and invisible humps in the tarmac on Road 33.

Motodups from Kampot start at about $3-$4 one way and $8-$10 round trip. Tuk-tuks run about $10-$17 for a round trip depending how long you spend in Kep and number of passengers.
 

PHNOM PENH to/from KEP

Road
There are two routes to Kep from Phnom Penh: 1) Follow National Route #3 (NR3) to Kampot and then take Road 33 to Kep (see previous section); 2) Follow National Route #3 (NR3) to the fork at Road 31. (There is a petrol station in the center of the fork.) Bare left. Take Road 31 south to Kampong Trach city. (Road 31 passes through some beautiful countryside.) Turn right at Kampong Trach and proceed to the Kep loop turnoff. Look for large overhead signs marking the turnoff. This route bypasses Kampot.

Taxis
Private taxi: Private taxis run about $40-$45.

Bus
Three or four bus companies run regular daily buses from Phnom Penh to Kep, combining the destinations of Kampot and Kep, some going to Kep first, some Kampot. To shorten the trip make sure to get a bus that stops at Kep first. In Kampot the buses arrive/depart the bus station on the east side of town. In Kep the buses arrive/depart at the Kep Beach intersection.

Phnom Penh Sorya Transport Bus

PP to Kep (direct) : 7:30, 9:30 12:00, 14:30, (18,000R/pax)
Kep to PP : 6:45, 7:00, 12:30, 13:30 (11,000R/pax)
Full-size a/c buses
Phnom Penh Station: Next to the Central Market.

Capitol Tours and Transport

PP to Kep (direct) : 7:00, 13:00 (15,000R/pax)
Kep to PP : 7:00, 13:00 (12,000R/pax)
Full-size a/c buses
Phnom Penh Station: Capitol Guesthouse, corner of Streets 107 and 182.
 

Getting AROUND Kep

Tuk-tuks await passengers at the bus station, Crab Market, beachfront and other tourist locations. Most hotels can arrange a motorcycle rental. There are also a couple of rental places around the beach intersection. Some rent bicycles as well. Motorcycle rental runs around $4-$6/day for a 100-125cc bike and $5-$10/day for a 250cc.

Kep Dining
Kep is known for its fresh seafood, especially the crab, which is absolutely excellent - literally straight from the ocean to your plate. No visit to Kep is complete without at least one fresh seafood lunch or dinner at the oceanfront. The Kampot Pepper Crab is a local culinary classic - fresh from ocean crab fried or steamed with generous bunches of fresh green and black Kampot pepper corns, some of the finest, most famous pepper in the world.

Traditional dining venues include the Crab Market and pockets of dining gazebos strung along the seaside. The Crab Market is made up of a dozen rustic oceanfront crabshack restaurants, most with a very local, friendly atmosphere offering a wonderfully unsophisticated dining experience at the water’s edge. As the Crab Market has become more popular over the last few years some of the restaurants have become a bit too accustomed to tourists, reducing portions and raising prices. Generally speaking, the touristy places are slicker and easier but the scruffier places more authentic and down-home.

At Kep Beach, picnic platforms line the road and another group of platforms line the Oceanside park near the Big Crab statue. Just find an empty platform, sit down and the seafood vendors will come to you. Most of the vendors have English language menus. Place your order and they’ll have your seafood cooked and served within 10 minutes.

Almost all of the hotels and guesthouses in Kep have restaurants and bars, some quite good. Most serve a wider variety of dishes than the local vendors including western and international dishes as well as fresh seafood dishes. Several guesthouse restaurants are located along Road 33a within a few hundred meters of the oceanfront road traffic circle.

After dark, most of Kep closes down, though a few places including Breezes on the beach, Toucan Bar in the Crab Market, and Kep Rock Cafe near the Vishnu statue restaurant, as well as some of the guesthouse restaurants are open into the late evening. Some of the seafood shacks at the Crab Market stay open as late as 10PM or 11PM.

Boeung Kalo

Oceanfront seafood restaurant. Proper sit down restaurant with a good ocean view. Complete seafood menu - fresh from the ocean crab, shrimp, squid, fish and more. Beachfront dining gazeboes also available. Guesthouse rooms available, attacked to the restaurant.
Tel: 012-680816

Breezes

Stylish lounge and restaurant by the sea. The beautiful garden, lounge beds, pavilions and view of Rabbit Island make it a perfect place to spend a few hours during the day, perhaps read and use the wifi. Delicious little menu with small bites, fresh oysters, daily seafood specials as well as mats and western options. Nicely lit in the evening making for a romantic atmosphere. Excellent reviews from expats and tourists. Free tuk-tuk from your hotel for dinner with minimum $12.50-$25 dinner (one-way/round trip, respectively.)

Look for the Breezes sandwich shop next to the Rabbit Island pier.

Tel: 097-6759072

      016-251454

Brise De Kep

Very pleasant oceanfront balcony restaurant at Kep Beach. Offering nicely done, reasonably priced French and Asian fare with the emphasis on seafood. Good breakfasts including a very nice Pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) properly served with all of the appropriate fresh herbs, sprouts and condiments.

Open 6:00AM-midnight.

Located at the Kep Beach intersection.

Tel: 012-301017

Ha Tien Vegas Casino & Hotel

Casino/hotel complex, not actually in Kep but at the Prek Chak border crossing with Vietnam about 30 minutes away from Kep. Full gaming facilities. Table games and machines. Superior hotel. Multiple dining and drinking outlets.

On the Cambodian side of the border.
Tel: 081-999988
Website: www.hatienvegas.com

Kep Lodge

Comfortable restaurant with great views over the gulf of Thailand with a variety of Röstis (Swiss style potatoes), tasty sausages and serving some of the best pizzas in town. Homemade ice cream. Salads.

Happy hour from 5.30 till 7.00 pm with great cocktails and cheap beers (13 different kinds)

Visa/MC
Tel: 092-435330

Email: info@keplodge.com

Website: www.keplodge.com

Knai Bang Chatt

Fine dining in a lovely romantic setting. Western and Asian dishes. Daily set menus and a la carte. Book your breakfast, lunch or dinner well in advance and enjoy our pool and garden the whole day.

Mon-Sun, 7AM-10PM.

Reservations 011-823552

Website: www.knaibangchatt.com
 

Le Bout du Monde

French and Khmer cuisine served in a hillside restaurant with a sweeping view of the jungle and ocean. “The gourmets can come taste our French and Khmer cuisine : pancakes of Brittany, beef fillet in parsley butter, amok or the succulent fish or beef fillet in oriental sauce.”
Located on the hillside. From Road #33A, turn east (toward the hill) at the oceanfront road intersection.

Tel: 012-801968
E-mail: contact.leboutdumonde@gmail.com
Website: www.leboutdumondekep.com

Long Villa Restaurant

Seaside restaurant situated right at the Koh Tunsay (Rabbit Island) Boat Dock. Like most places in Kep, the emphasis is on fresh seafood prepared both western and Asian style. Book a boat trip to Koh Tunsay at the restaurant.

Tel: +(855)(0)36-6351888

      +(855)(0)88-5555978

E-mail: longvillainn@gmail.com

Website: www.longvillainn.com

Sailing Club

Ideal for watching sunset. A former fisherman’s house built with a pier and a dock. Offering a variety of cocktails and a great menu for lunch and dinner. A very popular Sunday brunch. Pool table, ping-pong, volleyball. While you are there, hire a Hobie Cat, do some windsurfing or kayaking on the ocean. Check the website for special event. Free wifi.

Open Tue-Sun, 10AM-11PM.

Tel: 011-823552

Website: www.knaibangchatt.com

Toucan Restaurant & Bar

Popular Oceanside bar and tapas restaurant in the Kep Crab Market. Seafood, steaks, snacks and tapas all day long. Proper bar with a good selection of cold beers, draft, lots of spirits and cocktails. Pool table, music and dancing. Usually the last bar in Kep to close its doors in the late evening, often open into the early morning hours.

Tel: 081-723719

      012-230357

Veranda Natural Resort
Veranda Restaurant & Bar:

A unique breezy tropical garden surrounded by mountain cliffs with a sweeping view of the Kep seaside. Lively open-air restaurant serving western and Asian food as well as seafood dishes and a special 'Hot Pot' suki soup. Come with family and friends. Range: $2.50-$12. Generous portions, good wine selection, free wifi.
Veranda Bakery & Coffee Shop: Freshly baked artisan breads, Danishes, croissants, pastries, cakes, tarts, birthday cakes... 15 different ice cream flavors. Coffees, espresso, nespresso, cappuccino, cafe latte. Free wifi. Range: $1-$4.50
Veranda Pool Bar: Private resort swimming pool surrounded by mountain cliffs and tropical vegetation. Poolside cocktail bar. Wines. Beers...

Visa/MC

Tel: 012-888619

Website: www.veranda-resort.com

Kep Guesthouses and Hotels
 

A couple of dozen hotels and guesthouses are scattered across the Kep peninsula. Several sit amongst the jungle vegetation on side of the mountain overlooking the ocean. Others dot the ocean’s edge, including a small cluster of places at the Kep Beach intersection and a couple of new guesthouses near the Rabbit Island boat dock. Kep, in general, is aiming at mid/upper-range tourists and though there are plenty of budget priced rooms available, on the whole accommodations in Kep are bit more upscale and expensive than other coastal towns.

The Beach House

Range: $40

On the hillside overlooking Kep Beach. Nicely furnished and decorated rooms with a/c, satellite TV, large en suite bathroom with hot water and balcony with a picturesque sunset ocean view over Kep Beach. Swimming pool. Poolside bar and restaurant serving western and Asian food. Meeting room. Wifi.

Located near the Kep Beach intersection.

Tel: +(855)(0)12-712750

E-mail: info@thebeachhousekep.com

Website: www.thebeachhousekep.com

Beach Town Guesthouse

Range: $10 - $20

Oceanfront guesthouse overlooking Kep Beach. Clean, affordable fan and a/c rooms with en suite bathroom. The beach and seafood restaurants 20 meters from the front door.

Located at the Kep Beach intersection.

Tel: +(855)(0)12-763763

      +(855)(0)97-7521666
 

Botanica Bungalows

Range $12 - $25

Bungalows fan-cold water or A/C-hot shower with private balcony and en suite in a nice garden setting. Comfortable thick mattresses - free wifi in all bungalows - free bicycles - motorbikes for rent. Restaurant serving Khmer and western food. Full bar with TV - sports, news, movies..

Road 33A.

Tel: +(855)(0)97-8998614

      +(855)(0)97-8019071
E-mail: info@kep-botanica.com 
Website: www.kep-botanica.com

Brise De Kep Guesthouse

Range: $10 - $20

Beachfront guesthouse offering clean, new, affordable fan and a/c rooms with Cable TV and en suite with hot water. The beach and seafood restaurants 20 meters from the front door. Located at the main intersection, Kep Beach. Nice balcony restaurant with an oceanfront view, serving French and Asian dishes, with the emphasis on seafood. Excellent Pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) for breakfast.

Located at the Kep Beach intersection.
Tel: +(855)(0)12-301017

      +(855)(0)11-937117

      +(855)(0)36-6336339
Email: brisedekep@yahoo.com

Brise De Kep Boutique

Range: $25 - $55

Ocean front bungalows with private balconies and all modern amenities. A/C, Cable TV, stocked mini-bar and free wifi. Wonderful ocean view. Free pick up from bus station. Tour and travel services. Restaurant serving French, Vietnamese and Asian cuisine and of course, fresh seafood.  

Tel:+(855)(0)12-301017

     +(855)(0)97-6298797

     +(855)(0)36-6336339

E-mail: brisedekep@yahoo.com

Casablanca Guesthouse

Range: $15 - $25

(breakfast included) Newly refurbished fan and a/c rooms in Kep town.

On the main street in Kep town next to to the Provincial Hospital.
Tel: +(855)(0)12-230357
 

Jasmine Valley Eco-Resort

Range: $19 - $44

Nestled just below the national park. Solar-Powered mud-brick bungalows built with natural materials, many sourced in the valley, situated on the rainy-season creek. Man-made 'tree houses' with spectacular views. Two-storey family lodges with incredible views down the valley, across islands to Vietnam. Restaurant serving Khmer and foreign food. Wood-fired pizza. Fruit and veggies grown onsite. Bar. Piano. Pool table, table tennis, foosball. A 'natural swimming pool', complete with fish to nibble (no extra charge). Jasmine Valley is very much in the jungle; a peaceful retreat with adventure close by.

Tel: +(855)(0)97-7917635

      +(855)(0)97-7917636
E-mail: info@jasminevalley.com 
Website: www.jasminevalley.com

Kep Lodge  

Range: $28 - $120 (Breakfast included)

Swimming pool. Fan and sea breeze-cooled thatched bungalows with big terrace. Six nicely decorated, spacious wooden or concrete bungalows surrounded by a garden and fruit trees. Rooms equipped with comfortable 1.6m mattresses, bathroom with hot water, mini bar. Free Wifi access throughout the lodge. Free bicycle. Restaurant serving outstanding Khmer and Western food. Comfortable bar with pool table. Western-managed, very friendly staff.

Kep Lodge also offers Deluxe Double and Deluxe Twin bungalows. These tastefully decorated and roomy luxurious bungalows are equipped with a/c or fan (with mosquito nets), satellite TV/DVD with a big DVD library at your disposal, mini-bar, in-room safe, hot water, shower, king or queen size beds, 15-21m 2 sunset terrace with a sofa corner and hammock, wide front glass door and tea & coffee making facilities. US$50-US$70 including breakfast.

Also offering a new family deluxe house with two separate air-conditioned rooms, big balconies of 2 floors for $100-$120.

Visa/MC

Tel: +(855)(0)92-435330

      +(855)(0)17-879526

      +(855)(0)17-879153
E-mail: info@keplodge.com

Website: www.keplodge.com

Kep Malibu Estate Bungalows

Range: $35 - $55

Quiet resort located in a tropical garden with an incredible mountain view. Big swimming pool, bicycles for free, moto for rent, tourist tours, EXCLUSIVE JEEP TOURS in Kep and Kampot, tuk-tuk... and a new restaurant-lounge offering French & Khmer food, cocktails and views over the sea and the sunset.

Tel: +(855)(0)11-753869

      +(855)(0)11-747039

      +(855)(0)11-749273
Website: www.malibuestatesbungalows.com

Kimly Lodge

Range: $15 - $35

Cozy, affordable individual bungalows in a garden area set back a bit from the main road. Five bungalows, 3 with a/c, 2 with fan. En suite bathroom with hot/cold water. Free wifi. Restaurant, bar and all tourist services and info. Located just off Road #33A, a hundred meters north of the oceanfront road intersection.
Tel: +(855)(0)12-721200
E-mail: kimly.lodge@gmail.com

Website: www.kimlylodge.com

Knai Bang Chatt Resort

Range: $101 - $268

“The essence of Kep” A lifestyle property with three villas from the 1960s and 11 a/c rooms. Beautiful views and spacious garden. Large infinity swimming pool at the ocean side. Kitchen offering Fusion Asian and Continental dishes. Full spa and beauty treatment center, a library and the Sailing Club bar and restaurant. Outstanding service. 3% of room revenue goes to “Hand in Hand,” a 5-year sustainable development program.
Rooms: +(855)(0)17-917452

E-mail: reservations@knaibangchatt.com

Spa: +(855)(0)12-349742

E-mail: spa@knaibangchatt.com
Website: www.knaibangchatt.com

Le Bout du Monde

Range: $15 - $85

Individual and separate bungalows/residences/suite in traditional Khmer architecture, built on stilts and made of wood and stones. Located in landscaped gardens at the top of a breezy hill with a spectacular, sweeping view of the Gulf of Thailand. French and Khmer cuisine with fresh ingredients. Hot water, mini-bar, fan and safe in room (Khmer villa and residences/suite)

Located on the hillside. From Road #33A, turn east (toward the hill) at the oceanfront road intersection.

Tel: +(855)(0)12-801968
E-mail: contact.leboutdumonde@gmail.com
Website: www.leboutdumondekep.com

Le Flamboyant Resort

Range: $60 - $160 (Breakfast include)

Stylish, very well appointed boutique bungalows in a peaceful, lush tropical garden setting. AC, large flat screen TV, DVD, spacious en-suite bathrooms. All bungalows with veranda, some with private rooftop patio. Swimming pool. Restaurant serving fresh regional cuisine.

Visa/MC

Tel: +(855)(0)17-491010

E-mail: leflamboyant_resort@online.com.kh
Website: www.flamboyant-hotel.com  
 
Long Villa Inn

Range: $29 - $79

All new Oceanside bungalows with picture windows, private balconies and some with an ocean view. Clean, comfortable rooms with a/c, CTV, in-room safe, free wifi and en suite bathroom with hot/cold water. Oceanfront restaurant serving seafood and international dishes. Tour and travel services including boat to Rabbit Island.

Located next to the Rabbit Island boat dock, Kep, Cambodia.

Tel: +(855)(0)36-6351888

      +(855)(0)88-5555978

E-mail: longvillainn@gmail.com

Website: www.longvillainn.com

Masada Boutique Resort

Range: $40 - $50 (breakfast included)

Quality bungalows in a lush garden setting. Large picture window, private balcony, comfortable mattress and beddings, free wifi, en suite bathroom with hot water. Infinity swimming pool. Restaurant serving international fare.

Tel: +(855)(0)97-5062338

      +(855)(0)17-471984
E-mail: info@masadaresort.com
Website: www.masadaresort.com

Ponleu Chhner Tra Cheak Chit Guesthouse

Range: $10 - $22

New guesthouse overlooking Kep Beach offering clean fan and a/c rooms with CTV and en suite bathroom with hot water. Seafood restaurant serving Khmer and western dishes. Motorcycle and bicycle rental. Island tours $12.

Located at the Kep Beach intersection.

Tel: +(855)(0)12-894684

      +(855)(0)12-765832

Raingsey Bungalow

Range: $35

Quality wooden bungalows, each with picture window, private balcony, fan or a/c, Cable TV and en suite bathroom with hot water. Elevated restaurant with an ocean view. Picturesque setting, a garden setting at the base of the mountain, 500 meters from the Crab Market area.

Located on the mountain road just 50 meters from the oceanfront road intersection.

Tel: +(855)(0)11-558197
Website: www.raingsey-bungalow-kep.com

Rega Guesthouse and Restaurant

Range: $12 - $18

Near the Rabbit Island boat dock and Kep’s traditional market. 15 rooms in a quite, relaxing garden setting. Fan and a/c rooms from only $12. Free wifi. Motorcycles and bicycles for rent. Restaurant and bar. French and Khmer cuisine. Cocktails.
Tel: +(855)(0)88-9595130

      +(855)(0)97-5651440

Website: www.keprega.com

Spring Valley Resort

Range: $20 - $50

Newly refurbished villa style accommodations at the base of the mountain, surrounded by lush vegetation, but just a few hundred meters from the beach area. Large, nicely appointed rooms a/c rooms with all amenities. Swimming pool with a shallow end for the kids. Restaurant.

Visa/MC/AMEX/TC

Tel: +(855)(0)36-6666673

      +(855)(0)17-536888

      +(855)(0)17-750333

E-mail: info@springvalley-reort.com

Website: www.springvalley-resort.com
 

Tree Top Bungalows

Range: $4 - $25

Unique stilted bamboo bungalows on the hillside overlooking the ocean, standing from 1 to 3 meters off the ground. Clean, basic, private bungalows with fan room, mosquito net and en suite bathroom. Fresh fruit welcome for all. Bar/restaurant serving Khmer and international food, with the emphasis on seafood. Motorcycle and bicycle rental.

Located just off Road #33A, a couple of hundred meters north of the oceanfront road intersection.
Tel: +(855)(0)12-515191

      +(855)(0)97-6961709

E-mail: khmertreetop@hotmail.com

Website: www.treetopbungalows-kep.com

Vanna Hill Resort

Range: $29 - $70 (buffet breakfast included)

Perched at 200 meters above sea level, background by majestic Kep National Park. Offers 20 attractive, self-contained rooms with en-suite bathroom hot & cold shower and air-condition. The View Restaurant, Oasis swimming pool with Jacuzzi and poolside bar offer breathtaking hillside views of the Gulf of Thailand, Bokor Mountain and Phu Quoc Island of Vietnam. Restaurant/bar with salad bar, bakery, ice creams and happy hour. Free WiFi.

Visa/MC

From Road 33A turn East (toward the hill) at the Vishnu Statue/right turn to Crab Market.
Tel: +(855)(0)12-755038

      +(855)(0)36-6755038
E-mail: vannabungalow@gmail.com 
Website: www.vannabungalow.com

Veranda Bungalows and Resort

Range: $38 - $150 (including breakfast)
A high-end nature retreat in a quiet location, the resort presents an exclusive concept with raised wooden walkways. Beautiful sunset views. En suite bathroom with hot water. Fully outfitted luxury rooms and family bungalows available. 24 hour security. 24 hour electricity. Free wifi. Very popular resort, receiving very good reviews. Book ahead. Restaurant and pool bar. Bakery and ice cream. Souvenir shop.

Visa/MC

From Road #33A, turn east (toward the hill) at the oceanfront road intersection.

Tel: +(855)(0)12-888619

      +(855)(0)33-399035
E-mail: verandaresort@gmail.com  
Website: www.veranda-resort.com  

Kep Shopping

Kep’s first convenience store recently opened and another is on the way. Long Villa Mart located at the Rabbit Island boat dock is pretty well stocked offering beer, wine, spirits, foods, meats, soft drinks, snacks, and beach clothes.

Other shopping in Kep includes:

Kep Lodge Souvenir Shop

Offers a wide range of souvenirs. Starting with the world famous Kep-Kampot pepper, silk wallets, silk bags, Buddha statues, "I love Kep" T-shirts, cotton kromas, and lots of tribe things from Ratanakiri. "There is for sure a thing for you".

Website: www.keplodge.com

 
Veranda Souvenir Shop

Gift shop. Offering a wide range of local items. Clothes, handbags, wallets, bathing suits, silks scarves, pepper and spices, candles, palm sugar, palm wine and more. At Veranda Resort on the hillside.

Website: www.veranda-resort.com
 

Things to Do and See Around Kampot andKep
 

Kampot and Kep are so close to each other that they share many of the same sights and attractions. Kep Beach, Rabbit Island, Bokor Hill Station, and countryside tours are perhaps the most popular day tours out of Kampot and Kep with tour operators offering very competitively priced tours. The Kampot/Kep area also offers several other attractions including pre-Angkorian ruins and caves, jungle trekking, bicycling tours, river cruises, island trips, fishing trips, isolated beaches, pepper plantations, bamboo train rides and some beautiful rural countryside.

Kampot/Kep Tour Operators

Whether you plan to do-it-yourself or book a tour, transportation and/or tours can be found through one of the many local tour operators or through your guesthouse. Shop around for the best price and for exact type of tour you would like to take..

Kampot Tours & Travel
Bar, restaurant and all travel and tour services. Bokor, countryside, boating, cycling, ox-carts, Kep, Rabbit Island, transport to Vietnam and Thailand.
Located in Kampot one block off the river road
Tel: +(855)(0)97-9828756

      +(855)(0)92-125556

      +(855)(0)33-6335556

Website: www.kampottours-travel.com

Moly Tours Kep
Tour and travel agency, guesthouse and general travelers services. Specializing in tours and transportation around southern Cambodia and Vietnam. Tour to Bokor, Rabbit Island and Phu Quoc. Air, bus, boat tickets.
Located in Kep at the Kep Beach intersection near the bus station.

Tel: +(855)(0)17-520 906

      +(855)(0)97-7520907
Website: www.molytourkep.com

Sok Lim Tours
Kampot packages, sunset cruises, Rabbit Island, Bokor, jungle trekking, countryside tours, Takeo...
Located in Kampot, ear Blissful Guesthouse.
Tel: +(855)(0)12-719872
Website: www.soklimtours.com

Tree Travel Services
Travel and tour services. Motorcycles, cars, vans buses for rent. Tour guide Mr. Cheng Try. Area and all-country tours. Bokor, sunset, river cruises, Kep, Rabbit Island and more.
Tel: +(855)(0)12-974698

      +(855)(0)11 974 698
E-mail: cheangtryservice@ymail.com

 

Architecture of Kampot
Though suffering a bit the ravages of time, the architecture of Kampot is pleasantly provincial, a mix of red tile-roofed shophouses and old French colonial government buildings. Kampot has been an active settlement for centuries but the location and layout of the modern town was established during the French colonial period in the late 19th/early 20th centuries. Many of the buildings along and near the river were constructed during this period. The south end of town harbors several European-style buildings including the governor’s mansion and the old prison. Most of the other colonial era buildings employ the classic 2-storey ‘Chinese shophouse’ design, many displaying European design elements. Unlike many other Cambodian cities, the shophouses are often individuated in design and facade, lending to Kampot town’s quaint air.

Bokor Hill Station

Tours to Bokor have been long been popular out of Kampot. The Bokor Hill Station on Phnom Bokor (Bokor Mountain) is a mountaintop collection of buildings (hotel, casino, church, royal residence, etc.), constructed by French authorities in the early 1920s as a complement to the already popular Kep resort area. In the 1990s a travel author referred to Bokor as ‘the eeriest place in the world.’ In its time, Bokor was an elegant getaway for French officials and foreign visitors to old Indochina - a classic colonial ‘hill station’ located in the mountains to allow foreigner visitors accustomed to more temperate climes to escape the tropical heat. Years of neglect left ghostly ruins - vestiges of a different age, often shrouded in fog and clouds, though a new development project amongst the old ruins has detracted some from the eerie atmosphere. One thing that the years have not changed is the absolutely spectacular view of the coast and the cool (sometimes cold) mountain air. Bokor Mountain is jungled and excursions beyond Bokor, including trekking, can be arranged by local tour operators.

The road up Bokor Mountain and the area of the old hill station are currently undergoing a development project, including refurbishing the casino and hotel and the addition of a new hotel complex. Though work continues on the new hotel and casino, the road up the mountain has recently been completed, is in good condition and is now open to visitors. The drive to the top take 30-45 minutes. Full day Bokor tours can be arranged through your guesthouse or a local tour operator. Tours run about $10/person inclusive for an all-day tour including a sunset boat cruise on the Kampong Bay River. Overnights can also be arranged (bring warm clothing!) Currently there is no admission fee. The Park Office and turn-off to the Hill Station are 37km west of Kampot on National Route 3.

Caves near Kampot

Limestone mountains (‘phnom’) dot the landscape between Kampot and Kep. Many contain limestone caves, some adorned with exotic rock formations, and almost all containing Buddhist shines. Make sure to bring a torch and wear shoes suitable for climbing on rocks.

The caves of Phnom Chhnork - Cave #1 Pre-Angkorian ruin set in a limestone cave amongst stalagmites and stalactites that are slowly growing back into the ruin. Small, 4th-5th century AD brick structure associated with the ancient state of Funan. A bit of carving is still visible. Look for the limestone formations near the entrance of the cave in the shapes of elephants. Cave #2 The entrance is about 300 meters from Cave #1 in the same limestone outcropping. Very little in the way of formations, but quite deep, requiring climbing over piles of rock and through small openings. Small shrine.

The cave at Phnom Sla Ta'aun Plain by comparison to other caves, but still an interesting climb. Look for the huge rock balanced in a hole in the ceiling. Small shrine.

The cave at Phnom Sasear, also known as the ‘White Elephant Cave.’ Located next to an colorful pagoda. The stairs up the side of the outcropping provide a beautiful view of the countryside, especially during the wet season. The cave contains a shrine at the base of a limestone formation alleged to resemble a white elephant. 

Countryside/Area Tours

Kampot and Kep provinces harbor some beautiful rural countryside just outside the town areas - bucolic scenery, rice paddies and water buffalos with white egrets riding their backs, countryside pagodas and little villages filled with traditional stilted houses. There is some very nice rural scenery along the road between Kampot and Kep. Keep your camera at the ready. Tour operators offer full and half day area tours the can easily be customized to your requirements, often including visits to the caves, a pepper plantation, Kep, Rabbit Island, Kampong Trach and a sunset cruise on the Kampong Bay River.

Kampong Trach

Kampong Trach is the district that borders Vietnam. The road trip from Kampot to the main town passes though some picturesque rural areas. There is a new side road to Kampong Trach town that skirts the base of Phnom Voar, (where the victims of the 1994 Khmer Rouge kidnappings were held.) These mountain areas of Kampong Trach were one of the last Khmer Rouge holdouts. Kampong Trach town is small and relatively uninteresting. The area’s main attraction is a series of limestone caves and tubes that have been carved into a nearby mountain. The roof of a large cave in the center of a mountain has collapsed, making a small, enclosed jungle. Pagodas and shrines have been built amongst the caves, providing for some excellent photo possibilities. Bring a flashlight and wear good walking shoes. 

From Kampot, take the Kep road, bear left at the White Horse Monument and follow to Kampong Trach. After a few kilometers the road changes to badly broken pavement. The side road mentioned above requires a left turn onto a graded dirt road about 7 km past the White Horse Monument. It is not a straightforward route and it may be better if you go with a guide. Set aside the better part of a day for the trip to the caves and back.

Kampot Pepper and Pepper Plantations
Kampot pepper, grown in Kampot province, has been renowned for more than a century as some of the highest quality pepper in the world - its distinct flavor and pugnacity, intense but light taste with fresh lingering aromas has long been a prized as an essential spice in the finest French kitchens. It is also featured in local Kampot/Kep cuisine such as Pepper Crab (local crab fried in black or green pepper corn) and beef steak in fresh pepper corn sauce. At the beginning of the 20th century the Kampot plantations were in full operation and Cambodia was exporting more than 8000 tones of pepper annually. In 1960, there were 1 million pepper poles in Kampot. But the wars from the 1970s through the 1990s put an end to regular production for almost 30 years. Production was renewed in the late 1990s but faced new challenges. Pepper plantations now dot Kampot province. Most general Kampot area tours pass through the pepper plantations near Phnom Voar. The plantations of Angkor Chey near Phnom Voar offer a particularly good look at the process or growing and preparing the pepper. And it’s a good place to buy the Kampot pepper straight from the source.

Kep Beach

A single, kilometer-long crescent of sand near the tip of the Kep peninsula, bounded by rocks at either end and the oceanfront road along the back. Coarse sand, shallow, warm water. Very average swimming beach. But still lounge, have an oceanside seafood meal and enjoy the cool sea breeze. Dining platforms and seafood vendors line the road behind the beach as well as the oceanfront further down the road near the Big Crab statue. The beach can be quite busy on weekends, but often deserted during the week. The road through Kep traces the coastline to the beach and then circles back on itself. Sometimes cars and vans must pay admission to drive the oceanfront road along the beach area (2500R-5000R). Motorcycles and pedestrians are free. Be aware that the oceanfront road along the beach area is a one way street and the police do occasionally enforce the law.

Khmer Cultural Development Institute
Located in Kampot town. Local school of traditional Khmer music and dance for young Cambodian students. The school allows visitors to observe the students in practice and occasionally holds formal performances.. Check the bulletin board in front of the school for visiting hours to observe practice sessions and performance announcements. Whether attending a training session or a performance, donations are welcome.
 

Massage

The Spa at Knai Bang Chatt

“The Spa of Knai Bang Chatt enchants you” Upscale spa offering select Asian and western massage styles. Skilled massage therapists. Relax, unwind, recharge and rejuvenate. After a treatment enjoy the pool and garden for the whole day.

Tel: +(855)(0)12-349742

E-mail: spa@knaibangchatt.com

Rabbit Island

Rabbit Island is a small tropical island located about 20-40 minutes south of Kep by local boat. The island is blessedly undeveloped and lacks most services except for some rustic bungalows and a couple of rudimentary beach shack restaurants. Secluded white sand beaches dot the edges of the island, backed by a hilly coconut palm interior. Most services are near the west side beach. The surrounding waters are relatively clear and warm, offering some snorkeling opportunities around the rocks. Coral is scarce but colorful fish abound. You can stay on the island or make a day trip of it - go in the morning, lounge on the beach and return to Kep in the afternoon. Rooms/bungalows on the island run $10 or less. Arrange a boat trip to the island through your guesthouse in Kampot or Kep or just go to the Koh Tunsay Boat Dock in Kep town next to the Long Villa Restaurant (see Kep map on page 113.) Boats are almost always available. A round-trip trip to the island and back runs $20 for the whole boat, so bring some friends to split the cost. The round-trip price is the same whether you stay a few hours or a few days. Tour operators and guesthouses in Kep offer day packages starting at about $7/person inclusive.

River Trips

River boat trips out of Kampot on the picturesque Kampong Bay River are becoming more popular. The tour companies and many of the guesthouses (Little Garden Bar) are offer several different sorts of boat trips including short sunset trips upriver to the Tekchhou Rapids; longer cultural/wildlife/eco trips upriver, often combined with trekking in the National Park; downriver trips to the ocean to explore the beaches and sand spits near the river’s mouth; do a bit of ocean swimming; photograph the fishing boats at work or go ocean fishing. A couple of the tour operators including those listed can supply fishing gear. Boat trips are relatively reasonably priced and the tour operators are generally amenable to customizing the trip to your requirements.

Tekcchou Resort and Zoo

A long-popular local picnic area on the Prek Chha river near a set of rapids with riverside dining platforms and lots of food/drink vendors. Though the cool rapids and river breeze can be quite pleasant, the new river dam/hydroelectric project just upstream of the rapids have diminished both the atmosphere and popularity of the area. Nearby Asian-style mini zoo displaying a variety of local fauna. 8km. Good road. Officials sometimes collect an entrance fee, especially at peak times. At last report, $3 for foreigners and 1000 riel for Cambodians.

Trekking around Kep
Offering a fairly easy hiking experience, a trail/service road snakes through national forest land around Kep Mountain - the small mountain near the tip of the peninsula between Road 33a and the Kep town area. The gently sloping trail winds past a couple of old pagodas, though light jungles where you may spy monkeys or other wildlife, and provides many picturesque overlooks along the way. Kampot and the Elephant Mountains can be seen in the distance from the northwest viewpoint, and the trail on the other side of the mountain provides some striking views across the valley to a pagoda on the next mountain and the beaches in the distance. The trail is actually a small, dirt service road that rings the mountain in an 8km loop, part of the road in pretty good condition, some narrow and overgrown. Suitable to hike of for a mountain bike or dirt bike. The trail is most easily and conveniently accessed from the road next to Le Bout du Monde and Veranda Guesthouse. The hiking is fairly easy, but wear stout shoes and take water and mosquito repellent.

Kep Websites