Backpacking Southern Cambodia 14/41: Bokor Mountains, Kampot - Remembering 10 Years Since Visiting with Jeep Marapin

Backpacking Southern Cambodia 14/41: Bokor Mountains, Kampot - Remembering 10 Years Since Visiting with Jeep Marapin

When talking about Kampot Province in Cambodia, many might think of a peaceful town that still preserves the traditional rural life and beautiful nature of southern Cambodia. For me, mr.hotsia, returning to Kampot this time is a remembrance of 10 years since my first visit with my close friend Jeep Marapin. This time, we had the chance to travel up to Bokor Mountains, towering majestically and enchantingly above Kampot town.

Kampot Province is a peaceful and friendly place for foreign travelers seeking true tranquility and nature. The Chhou River flows through the town center, creating a relaxing riverside atmosphere perfect for leisurely walks. Most locals speak Khmer, but many can communicate well in Thai, making traveling and chatting with residents quite easy.

Traveling to Kampot Province is convenient from Phnom Penh by air-conditioned bus. I usually recommend buying tickets from hotels in Phnom Penh for ease and convenience. Buses depart twice daily, at 7:30 AM and 1:15 PM, taking about 4-5 hours. Upon arrival, you will experience a lifestyle different from big cities but filled with the warmth of Khmer people.

Bokor Mountains: Experience Unforgettable Nature and History

Bokor Mountains is a place that I, mr.hotsia, feel impressed every time I visit. This time, I had the opportunity to travel up the mountain again with Jeep Marapin to enjoy the cool atmosphere and beautiful sea of mist views. I recommend traveling early in the morning when the air is fresh and you can fully appreciate the panoramic scenery.

On Bokor Mountains, there are old abandoned hotels from the French colonial era and a church with beautiful architecture blending with the surrounding nature. This place is full of charm from the past and mysterious allure waiting to be explored. Walking on this mountain with cool breezes and bird songs makes me feel like I have traveled back to the time when Kampot was a popular French resort town.

Local Lifestyle and Cuisine in Kampot

After enjoying nature on Bokor, Jeep Marapin and I went down to stroll at the night market by the Kampot River, a gathering spot for tourists and locals at night. This market offers a variety of local foods to taste, from hot chicken rice porridge with Kampot black pepper bottles on the tables to fresh fruit smoothies called "Tuk Kalok" in Khmer, made with a special recipe including egg yolk, giving it a unique sweet and creamy flavor. I couldn’t resist trying it and must say it’s a very memorable taste.

For durian lovers, you must try Kampot durian, especially the Monthong variety known for its sweet, creamy taste and distinctive aroma. Kampot durians have a red spot at the stem, a mark indicating their authenticity from this province. I have shared in an articleKampot Durianthat durians here are clearly different from others and can be found at night markets or durian orchards in nearby provinces.

Another unique product of Kampot is black pepper, recognized as a high-quality spice. Kampot black pepper has a strong, fragrant flavor. I usually add this pepper to every meal here, and it wonderfully elevates ordinary dishes to special ones. If you are interested in Kampot black pepper, please read my articleKampot Pepperto gain deeper understanding.

10-Year Memories in Kampot with Jeep Marapin

This trip was not just an ordinary travel but also a remembrance of good memories with Jeep Marapin, my travel companion from ten years ago. Returning to Kampot again made me, mr.hotsia, feel like traveling back in time and witnessing the changes in this small town that still retains its peacefulness and warmth.

While Jeep and I were strolling, we talked about the town’s changes and our travel plans that are far from over. Kampot still has much to explore, including Phnom Chhnork Cave, which I have written about inPhnom Chhnork Cave Article, Kampot Provinceor a sunset boat cruise on the Kampot River, another highlight not to be missed.

Summary of Impressions from Kampot

Kampot is not just a small town on Cambodia’s map but a vibrant experience and memory that I, mr.hotsia, want everyone to try for themselves. It is full of natural charm, simple local lifestyles, and delicious, unique local food. Climbing Bokor, experiencing the night market by the river, and talking with locals make Kampot a destination I want to return to many times.

For those interested in discovering the peaceful yet story-rich southern Cambodia and wanting to know Kampot Province more deeply, please visitMy Kampot Province Travel Information, Cambodiato prepare before your trip. If you want to see real-life scenes in Kampot, I have a YouTube clipBackpacking Southern Cambodia 14/41: Bokor Mountains, Kampot - Remembering 10 Years Since Visiting with Jeep Marapinthat will take you to experience the real atmosphere from the field.