History: Bokor Hill Station was built by the French between 1921 and 1925 to escape the heat of Phnom Penh. Abandoned twice (during the independence war in the 1940s, then by the Khmer Rouge in the 1970s), the station has been partially restored into a luxury resort since 2012 — creating a strange coexistence between historical ruins and modern infrastructure.

What to See

The Bokor Palace (former casino)

The flagship building of the station — a large colonial hotel-casino from 1925 that overlooks the plain and the sea. The interior has been partially restored. The terrace offers spectacular views when the clouds clear. In foggy weather (common), the atmosphere is truly striking.

The Popokvil Waterfall

2 km from the main plateau, a double waterfall in the forest. During the rainy season, it is powerful and the setting is beautiful. In the dry season, it is thinner but accessible. Swimming is possible in the lower pool.

Wat Sampov Pram

An active Buddhist temple on the plateau, featuring a gigantic Buddha statue. Monks still live here — a serene counterpoint to the colonial ruins.

Distance from Kampot 30 km (45 min-1h depending on transport)
Altitude 1,075 m (Phnom Bokor summit)
Visit Duration Half-day (3-4h) to full day
Park Entry 3 USD/person

How to Get There from Kampot

The paved road winds up from the village of Kompong Trach (or directly from Kampot). Transport options:

Rented motorcycle: The best option for experienced riders. The road is well-paved but the curves are tight, and the descent can be slippery if wet. Rental costs 10-15 USD/day in Kampot.

Organized tour from Kampot: Half-day with a guide, transport included (18-25 USD). Most guesthouses in Kampot organize these tours. This is the most convenient solution.

Fog: Bokor is often in the clouds, especially in the morning and during the rainy season. The fog is part of the experience, but if you come for the view of the gulf, choose a morning in the dry season (Nov-Apr) and leave early.
GetYourGuide — Bokor Tours from Kampot
Half-day or full day · English-speaking guide · Transport included
On nous pose souvent ces questions

Questions fréquentes

Yes — half a day from Kampot is enough to see the essentials (palace, waterfall, temple). If you are in Kampot for 2-3 days, Bokor is a must-see. However, do not plan a round trip from Phnom Penh just for Bokor.

Yes, the Sokha Bokor Mountain Resort offers rooms on the plateau. It's a chance to see the sunrise over the gulf (if the clouds cooperate) and visit the site when the tourist buses are not yet there. Rates: 80-150 USD/night.