Phnom Tbeng Mountain: The Natural Heritage Park of Cambodia

An area rich in natural resources and biodiversity, Phnom Tbeng is located 35 kilometers from the provincial town of Preah Vihear and tends to attract visitors eager to explore. The mountain, which was declared a Natural Heritage Park by the Cambodian government in 2016, spreads over approximately 25,000 hectares across four districts: Kulen, Preah Vihear City, Rovieng, and Sangkum Thmey.

Also known because of spiritual beliefs and history, the area consists of three main communities that oversee vast regions of protected forests: Chak Angre, Dataveok, and Tangyu.

The trail in the Tangyu community offers trekkers a chance to explore rocky and zigzag turns to reach the top of the mountain. The trail is a little easier for the first several 100 meters as the slope is not steep and has small angles that make it an undemanding walk.

The last part of the trail mostly consists of wooden ladders. Recently built to replace the old ones, they are meant to make the climb easier for tourists. Still, it is a steep climb that requires energy. Don’t forget to bring a bottle of water with you.

Visitors can enjoy an array of natural sites ranging from waterfalls, overhangs, and caves, to fields spreading over the horizon and wild animals. As there are many different sites, it is best to visit the region from July to November or December.