Backpacking Southern Cambodia 19/41: Noodles for 10,000 Riel per Bowl in Kampot Province, Cambodia

Backpacking Southern Cambodia 19/41: Noodles for 10,000 Riel per Bowl in Kampot Province, Cambodia

I, mr.hotsia, have arrived in Kampot Province, a peaceful area in southern Cambodia that many might overlook. But for me, this place has a unique charm waiting for backpackers to experience. Kampot is not only known for its beautiful nature and the calmness of its people, but also for delicious food that made me stop and remember it fondly—especially the noodles priced at 10,000 riel per bowl that I found in the local market here.

Kampot is located in southern Cambodia, about 50 kilometers from Kep Province. The Chhou River is a vital lifeline that sustains the people of this town. I stayed here for 3 nights, during which I experienced the friendly local lifestyle, strolled along small safe streets, and was impressed that many locals speak some Thai. Some work in hotels or as tuk-tuk drivers, making communication easy. I traveled here from Phnom Penh by air-conditioned bus, which took about 4-5 hours—convenient and not too tiring.

Among the local dishes I tried, the noodles for 10,000 riel per bowl, roughly over 80 Thai baht, are a must-try. The noodles here have a unique character different from elsewhere: chewy noodles, rich broth simmered to a perfectly balanced flavor, and fresh, generous side ingredients. I walked into a small noodle shop by the roadside in Kampot city and heard the owner chatting with customers in a mix of Khmer and Thai. This is the charm of Kampot that I love.

For those interested in trying the same noodles as I did, I recommend strolling around the old market area of Kampot or heading toKampot Night MarketThis area is full of popular single-dish restaurants and chicken rice porridge stalls. The Kampot black pepper on the tables enhances the flavor of every dish perfectly. The black pepper here is famous for its fragrant aroma and intense taste. I personally added plenty to spice up every bite.

If you want to know more about Kampot, I recommend readingKampot Province Travel Informationthat I wrote. It provides a good overview of the province, including attractions like Phnom Chhnork Cave orPhnom Chhnork Cave in Kampot Provincewhich is not far from the city if you enjoy countryside and nature travel.

After enjoying the noodles, I also took an evening stroll around the town and enjoyed a boat ride to watch the sunset on the Kampot River.Sunset Boat Ride on the Kampot RiverThis activity is highly recommended. The sky’s changing colors reflecting on the water, along with the cool breeze, create a relaxing atmosphere that makes time feel like it slows down for a moment.

Another thing I must mention is the markets and local food of Kampot. Besides noodles, Kampot durian is also very famous. I have already written aboutKampot Durianbefore. The Kampot variety of Monthong durian here tastes sweeter and more fragrant than expected. At the night market, you can try durian smoothies mixed with egg yolk for a perfectly creamy and sweet flavor. I also visited a black pepper plantation myself, which is a key ingredient that gives Khmer food its unique taste. Read my story onKampot Black Pepperto learn more about the origin of this famous black pepper.

Traveling to Kampot, although it is not as large or famous as Siem Reap or Phnom Penh, I, mr.hotsia, confidently say this place is perfect for travelers who love discovering new stories, authentic local lifestyles, and affordable food with extraordinary flavors. The noodles for 10,000 riel per bowl that I ate are just one of the experiences that made me fall in love with Kampot, and I believe you will love it here too.

If you want to see real images and atmosphere, I recommend watching the videoBackpacking Southern Cambodia 19/41: Noodles for 10,000 Riel per Bowl in Kampot Province, Cambodiathat I uploaded on YouTube to see how I ate the noodles and the full atmosphere of Kampot city.