Bokor Mountain: The Popular Place For Tourists
Preah Monivong Bokor National Park, known in Khmer as ឧទ្យានជាតិព្រះមុនីវង្ស បូកគោ, is a stunning national park situated in the Kampot Province of southern Cambodia. Established in 1993, it spans an impressive area of 1,544.58 square kilometers. In 2003, it earned the title of an ASEAN Heritage Park. Nestled in the Dâmrei Mountains, it forms part of the southeastern region of the Cardamom Mountains. The majority of the park sits at an elevation of around 1,000 meters, with its highest point being Phnom Bokor, which rises to 1,081 meters and is also known as Bokor Mountain.
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History of Bokor Mountain
The Dâmrei Mountains were once under the control of the Khmer Rouge, but in 1993, Preah Monivong National Park was established, joining the ranks of other national parks in Cambodia. It stands out as one of the two ASEAN Heritage Parks in the nation.
This national park is famous for the deserted Bokor Hill Station, a secluded community constructed by French colonizers in 1921. Nearby, they also built a Catholic church in 1928, which is quite uncommon in Cambodia. The park is named in honor of King Sisowath Monivong, who frequently visited the area and passed away there in 1941. In 1924, Monivong commissioned the building of a Buddhist temple in the vicinity.
In recent years, the national park has gained popularity among tourists and now features the Thansur Bokor Highland Resort, a large luxury hotel that opened in 2012. Additionally, in 2010, a significant statue of Lok Yeay Mao was erected in the area. Lok Yeay Mao is a legendary figure in Cambodian Buddhism, believed to safeguard travelers, hunters, and fishermen. Standing 29 meters tall, it is the tallest Yeay Mao statue in the country.
In 2019, the government unveiled a “Master Plan for Bokor City Development Project until 2035,” which aims to develop 18,987 hectares of the park for residential, tourism, and business purposes.
Should Visit or Not
If you find yourself on Bokor Mountain, several attractions are worth checking out.
1. Damnak Sla Khmao
One of the notable sites is Damnak Sla Khmao, also known as the Black Palace. This was once the residence of the late King Norodom Sihanouk. Built in 1936, the palace features a unique construction of black wood and brick. Although it has lost all its doors and windows, the structure remains in decent shape. Visitors can enjoy a stunning view of the cliff behind and witness a beautiful sunset in the late afternoon.
2. Le Bokor Palace
Le Bokor Palace is an impressive colonial building designed by French architects and opened its doors in 1925. It was a popular retreat until 1972, providing a cool escape from the region’s sweltering summer heat. Currently, the hotel is undergoing restoration to revive its former glory, allowing guests to experience its historical charm. Additionally, it will host Cambodia’s first museum dedicated to colonial architecture.
3. Wat Sampov Pram
The name “Wat Sampov Pram,” or “5 Boats Wat,” comes from five uniquely shaped rocks nearby that resemble boats. To delve into the fascinating history of these sites, our knowledgeable guide on the Bokor Mountain Tour will share the intriguing legend of the boats. This site was established by King Monivong in 1924. You will be captivated by the stunning views of the lush green forest and the sparkling blue sea that lie behind the temple.
4. Lok Yeay Mao Statue
The impressive Lok Yeay Mao statue, standing at 29 meters tall and facing the shore, was erected in 2010. Lok Yeay Mao is revered as the guardian spirit of travelers, fishermen, and hunters, a belief that has been passed down through generations. As a result, visitors to Kampot often stop by to pray and seek blessings or fulfill their wishes at the Lok Yeay Mao statue.
5. Popokvil
Take a short 15-minute journey from the hill station to the renowned Popokvil, also known as Swirling Clouds Waterfall. This route will lead you past the remnants of grass huts that once housed families during the Khmer Rouge era. From the parking area, a 20-minute walk along a dirt path will bring you to the first tier of the waterfall, which is relatively easy to access. However, the effort to reach the second tier is truly rewarding. Our guides can share the fascinating stories and meanings behind the waterfall’s name. The falls are famous for their gentle mist that drifts above, creating a stunning visual experience.
6. Scenic Trails
You can select from several beautiful trails that offer an hour or more of breathtaking mountain views. As you explore these paths, you’ll be captivated by the stunning vistas of Bokor Mountain. The experience will leave you with unforgettable memories as you soak in the magnificent surroundings. The hill station’s architecture, including a historic Catholic church and an old hotel, is both beautiful and haunting, steeped in rich history.