Kampot is a city on the Preaek Tuek Chhu River in southern Cambodia. It's known for its pepper plantations and salt fields. Many buildings date from the colonial period, including the Governor’s Mansion. The house is now the Kampot Museum, which has exhibits on the city’s history. To the west, Preah Monivong Bokor National Park has a cool climate with forests, waterfalls and wildlife including gibbons and big cats. ― Google
November to March: Cool, dry season — ideal for exploring outdoors and the countryside.
April to May: Very hot but quiet.
June to October: Rainy season — great for lush scenery and fewer tourists.
From Phnom Penh:
3–4 hours by bus, minivan, or private car.
Some travelers also rent motorbikes for the scenic ride.
From Sihanoukville:
Around 2–3 hours by road.
From Kep:
Less than 1 hour — easily done as a day trip or by tuk-tuk.
Bokor Mountain (Bokor Hill Station): Abandoned French colonial buildings, a Catholic church, waterfall, and panoramic views.
Kampot Pepper Farms: Tour world-famous organic pepper plantations and taste fresh green pepper dishes.
Kampot River: Peaceful riverside area perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and sunset cruises.
Salt Fields: Visit during dry season to see salt harvesting.
Phnom Chhngok Cave Temple: A Hindu shrine hidden inside a limestone cave.
Old Town: Stroll through French colonial buildings, boutique shops, and colorful cafés.
Take a motorbike or tuk-tuk trip up Bokor Mountain.
Kayak or paddleboard along the calm river.
Join a pepper farm tour and sample locally grown spices.
Relax with yoga classes or wellness treatments in eco-resorts.
Enjoy a sunset cruise with local snacks and drinks.
Take a cooking class in Khmer cuisine.
Day trip to nearby Kep for beaches and crab markets.
Budget: Riverside hostels and backpacker-friendly guesthouses.
Mid-range: Boutique hotels with French-colonial charm.
Eco-lodges: Unique riverside bungalows and nature stays outside the town.
Luxury: Few upscale resorts with mountain views and spa facilities.
Local cuisine: Kampot pepper crab, fresh seafood, and traditional Khmer dishes.
Kampot pepper specialties: Available in many restaurants — try stir-fried prawns with green peppercorns.
Western & Fusion: Artisan pizza, vegan cafés, French-inspired bakeries, and wine bars.
Night market: Good for casual meals, snacks, and desserts.
Kampot blends Khmer traditions with a relaxed, creative expat community.
Known for slow-paced living and friendliness.
Pepper and salt production are central to local identity.
Buddhist temples are active in the community — respectful attire is recommended when visiting.