Kampot

Kampot is a provincial capital and a peaceful, charming town of around 40,000 inhabitants. It is also a lively tourist destination, known for its relaxed atmosphere and picturesque surroundings. Unlike many other Cambodian towns, Kampot stands out as the main departure point for the region’s most popular tourist excursions, including trips to Bokor National Park and the Teuk Chhou River.

History

The name “Kampot” in Khmer literally means “pufferfish.” During the French colonial administration, the town experienced a golden age. Before the Mekong Delta was lost and prior to the creation of Sihanoukville, Kampot was home to Cambodia’s most important port. Today, that former port serves as a small dock for local fishing boats. Until the deep-sea port of Sihanoukville was constructed in the 1950s, Kampot remained one of the country’s leading commercial hubs.

In 2001, the local administration signed a cooperation agreement with the town of Lognes (Seine-et-Marne, France) to build youth and cultural centers.

Geography

Located 148 km southwest of Phnom Penh, Kampot lies at the foot of Bokor Mountain. The town spans just 4 km² but stretches along 80 km of coastline on the Gulf of Thailand. It is also traversed by the Teuk Chhou River, also known as Prek Thom.

Kampot today

Kampot’s economy is largely based on the production of local fruit, salt, and pepper. The region’s unique climate and fertile soil make it ideal for growing high-quality crops, including durians, coconuts, and mangoes. Kampot is often referred to as the durian capital of Cambodia. It is also one of the largest pepper-producing regions in the world. With its bold, aromatic flavor, Kampot pepper is regarded as one of the finest in the world and holds a protected geographical indication (PGI) status. In 2015, Kampot produced 60 tons of pepper annually, with over 70% exported to Europe, the United States, and Japan.

Kampot’s cuisine is strongly influenced by both Khmer and Western traditions. In a warm and welcoming atmosphere, restaurants serve local Khmer dishes, French cuisine, and other Asian and international favorites. Visitors can enjoy everything from Khmer specialties to Western comfort food like barbecue, pork chops, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and ice cream.

The town also features a blend of French colonial and Khmer architecture, reflecting its historical past. These historic buildings—dilapidated merchant homes and grand administrative houses—are mainly found along the riverfront. Notable structures include the Governor’s Residence, the Red Cross building, and the Ministry of Mines offices.

Often perceived as a sleepy town, Kampot has recently seen a rise in tourism initiatives aimed at promoting its idyllic landscapes and heritage sites. Many local travel companies offer excursions and walking tours to explore the surrounding area.

Hiking and boat trips are among the most popular activities. Guesthouses and tour agencies offer various packages, allowing visitors to discover the region’s salt fields, pepper plantations, and countryside. Sunset cruises or kayaking along the Teuk Chhou River provide an unforgettable experience of the area's natural beauty.

Salt fields

The salt fields of Kampot are located on former rice paddies that have been transformed into shimmering white plains. Along the road to Kep, these fields resemble small snow-capped mountain ranges, offering a unique and surreal landscape.

Pepper Plantations

Nestled between lush green hills about 20 km east of the town, Kampot’s pepper plantations are one of the region’s top tourist attractions. The best time to visit is just before the harvest season, from March to April. During this period, visitors can observe or even participate in the harvesting process and learn about the traditional techniques behind one of the world’s finest peppers.

Kep

Just 25 kilometers away lies Kep, a quaint fishing town that can be reached via Teuk Chhou River cruises. Known for its seafood—especially fresh crab and grilled squid—Kep is also famous for its beautiful beaches and relaxed coastal charm.

Bokor National Park

Bokor National Park features a historic French hill station at its summit. From the top, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city, waterfalls, colonial-era ruins, and pepper plantations.

Climate

Kampot has a hot and humid tropical climate. Rainfall is abundant during the monsoon season. The average temperature hovers around 27°C, with lows near 16°C. April is typically the hottest month. Kampot is also considered one of the coolest regions in Cambodia.

How to get there

By Taxi or Bus

Kampot is accessible from Phnom Penh via shared taxis, minivans, or buses. The journey, which passes through Kep on National Road No. 3, takes about 4 to 5 hours. Kampot is only 25 km from Kep and can be reached easily by tuk-tuk, moto, taxi, or bus.

By Boat

Daily boats are one of the most pleasant ways to reach Kampot. Departing from Kep at 9:30 AM and returning around 3:30 PM, the journey takes about 2 hours along the river, offering beautiful scenic views along the way.

By Train

Kampot is also connected to Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville by train, with regular daily departures.

Getting around

By Canoe

One of the best ways to explore Kampot peacefully is by renting a canoe. Local mango farmers often rent out their boats by the half-day.

By Bicycle or Motorbike

Bicycles, motorbikes, taxis, and tuk-tuks are widely available and commonly used to explore the town and its surroundings. 

Things to do

• Hike or paddle along the Teuk Chhou River to enjoy Kampot’s stunning natural scenery
• Visit the pepper plantations and try your hand at harvesting the world’s finest pepper
• Relax on the beaches of nearby Kep
• Explore Bokor National Park and trace the remnants of Cambodia’s French colonial past