Sen Monorom

The town of Sen Monorom is the capital of Mondulkiri Province, the largest province in Cambodia. Although it is not a major tourist hub, the town holds particular interest due to its natural resources. It features lush forests, rolling grasslands, hill tribes, waterfalls, and winding dirt roads. Nature lovers can enjoy a true adventure here.

Geography

Sen Monorom is located in the northeastern part of Cambodia, 370 km from Phnom Penh. It lies near the Vietnamese border.

Sen Monorom today

With a rustic charm, Sen Monorom has one main street lined with restaurants, shops, and scenic lakes. Most of the buildings are wooden houses built in an older architectural style that reflects traditional Cambodian design.

Sen Monorom is one of the least populated areas in Cambodia, with a density of only 4 inhabitants per km². In 2009, the population was estimated at 7,500. Many ethnic groups, particularly the Bunong, live in this part of Cambodia. The Bunong people have inhabited the region for over 2,000 years. They are very friendly and welcoming indigenous communities.

The Sen Monorom area is a great place to try Khmer cuisine, such as beef Lok Lak. There are many good Khmer restaurants in town. Some also try to offer European cuisine, often presenting their menus in English to visitors.

The areas surrounding the town are rich in biodiversity. They are known for their thick forests, rolling hills, and picturesque waterfalls. Two lakes can be found in the center of town. Sen Monorom is often referred to as “the Switzerland of Cambodia.” The area serves as a true haven and sanctuary for a wide variety of wildlife. Over 70% of Cambodia’s captive elephants are located in Mondulkiri Province. As a result, several international NGOs operate in the region to protect these forest giants.

The most common tourist activity in the area is jungle trekking. On foot or on the back of an elephant, this activity allows visitors to discover ethnic minority villages, the Elephant Valley, and Mondulkiri’s biodiversity.

The Bunong villages

Guided by the village chief, a local representative, or a travel guide, tourists are always welcome among these indigenous people. During your visit, you may stay for a day or two to learn about the traditions, lifestyle, and culture of the Bunong people. 

Note, however, that these minority groups now dress like anyone else.

The Bousra Waterfalls

Located just 30 km northeast of the town, the Bousra Waterfalls are truly impressive. They are two stunning natural waterfalls, with the first dropping more than 30 meters and the second more than 40 meters. During the region’s hottest period, these year-round waterfalls become popular spots for swimming enthusiasts.

Elephant Valley Project

The« Elephant Valley Project » is a protected forest area home to wild elephants. The site is supported by a local charity called ELIE. This organization helps care for elephants as they are reintroduced to their natural habitat. On over 16,000 hectares of land, more than 250 wild elephants roam and live freely. Visitors can spend a few hours volunteering and helping care for the elephants.

Climate

According to the Köppen-Geiger classification, Sen Monorom has a savanna climate with a dry winter. Most of the rainfall occurs in summer, with annual precipitation reaching 2,587.6 mm. Situated at an altitude of 800 meters, Sen Monorom enjoys cooler winds than Phnom Penh. The average temperature is 22.9°C.

How to get there

Minibus

Minibus is the most common and frequent way to reach Sen Monorom. Several transport companies operate routes between the Mondulkiri capital and other major Cambodian cities such as Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Kratie, and Banlung. From neighboring countries like Vietnam and Laos, these shared transport services are also available.  

Rental car

Some Cambodian cities like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh offer rental car services. With these, it is possible to reach Sen Monorom from the major capitals. In general, renters have access to a driver who also acts as a guide.

Getting around

Bicycle

Exploring the town center and surroundings of Sen Monorom is more enjoyable by bicycle or scooter. You can rent a scooter or hire a motorbike taxi for a day trip starting from the town center.

What to do

• Spend a day or two with the Bunong minority groups and discover the culture of Cambodia’s indigenous people 
• Admire the Bousra Waterfalls, the tallest waterfalls in Cambodia 
• Venture into the jungle of Mondulkiri to encounter wild elephants