Exploring Kampot, Cambodia in 2025: Must-See Sights and Things to Do

Kampot, once Cambodia's largest port during French colonial rule, was a bustling hub of trade and administration. Although Sihanoukville later took over as the main port in the 1950s, traces of Kampot's golden age still linger in its streets. Did you know that in the southwest of the Cambodia, there is a peaceful town extremely famous for its pepper specialty? Kampot is an unmissable destination for lovers of peace and quiet. Follow us as we discover this city, between the surrounding natural beauty and the delicious local specialty of pepper.

Written by Adam LE (Local Expert) Updated on 26-09-2025

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1. Kampot, a peaceful town in the southwest of Cambodia

Kampot, located in the south of Cambodia, about 150 km from the capital Phnom Penh. Its proximity to the Vietnamese border makes it easy to get to from the Xa Xia (Ha Tien) border gate in southern Vietnam, making it an ideal destination for a combined Vietnam and Cambodia trip.

Kampot is a one-of-a-kind city, offering a peaceful and tranquil beauty that sets it apart from other bustling destinations in the country. This city is famous for its magnificent pepper plantations, tropical fruit orchards and well-preserved French architecture. 

2. What to see and do in Kampot? Top 10 activities not to be missed

2.1. Visit the Kampot pepper plantations and discover the Secret Lake

Did you know that Kampot pepper is considered one of the best spices in the world? This local wonder cannot be missed if you are a food lover.

Kampot enjoys a warm, humid climate ideal for growing pepper, which gives Kampot pepper a complex and subtle flavor. Star chefs from all over the world love it and food lovers can't fail to discover it.

The Kampot pepper plantations are famous for their high quality black, white and red pepper, which was granted a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) in 2010. Among the many pepper plantations in the area, Sothy, Botree and Starling Farm are well-known names.

Visiting the Kampot pepper plantations is a unique experience to closely observe traditional pepper growing, harvesting and processing techniques passed down from generation to generation. Don't forget to buy fresh peppers directly from these plantations, it's an unmissable experience to discover the exceptional quality of this world-renowned product.

It is common for the visit to the pepper plantations to be combined with the Secret Lake visit, located nearby.

2. Discover the Bokor plateau

Located about 10 km southwest of Kampot town, Bokor Plateau offers mysterious and captivating beauty. 

Bokor was a health resort built by French settlers in 1917, on a cliff at 1080m altitude in Preah Monivong National Park. In the past, French colonizers chose this location as an ideal location for building churches, schools, bars and resorts. 

In the 1990s, the Bokor plateau was nothing more than a pile of ruins, a ghost town where abandoned French buildings were neither restored nor repaired.

Now the Bokor plateau has a cool and pleasant climate. You can discover tourist sites such as:

• Bokor National Park is an area preserved by Cambodia which offers an exceptional natural landscape composed of an ancient forest and a fauna rich in protected species such as the Indian elephant, the sun bear, the Macacacon monkey, the Culi Sunda,...

• The Sovann Sakor Catholic Church was built by pastor Fr. Olivier Schmitthaeusler in the 1920s on the Bokor plateau. In French architectural style, the church is decorated with sculptures and remarkable architecture. Although it is not regularly maintained, visitors can admire its mysterious charm, especially in foggy weather.

• Popokvil Waterfall , 16 meters high and surrounded by lush green trees, is also a beautiful attraction in the park. Visitors can stroll the surrounding trails to enjoy stunning views of the waterfall and cool off in the river water below. It is a peaceful place to escape from the heat and hustle and bustle of the city.

• Be sure to visit the Samprov Pram Pagoda . Although its architecture is not particularly impressive, it has a unique and ancient beauty. Admiring the sunset from the pagoda, you can contemplate the beauty of the plateau when night falls. It is an essential stopover for all visitors.

• On the path to the plateau, you will come across the statue of the goddess Ya Mao, a cultural icon revered by many locals for its ability to protect visitors and symbolize happiness. Its view brings joy and serenity to all visitors.

4. Take a city tour of Kampot 

To experience daily life in Kampot, start at the local market where you’ll find fresh tropical fruits, affordable street food, and unique Cambodian souvenirs. A tuk-tuk ride through the city reveals well-preserved French colonial architecture. Kampot is also famous for its durian—known as the city’s emblem—though its strong scent may not be for everyone.

5. Explore the magnificent Phnom Chhngok Cave

Among Kampot’s limestone caves, Phnom Chhngok stands out. Just 1.5 km from town toward Kep, this cave houses a 7th-century Shiva shrine—older than Angkor’s temples. Reaching it requires climbing about 200 steps, but the reward is a sanctuary framed by striking stalactites and stalagmites, along with sweeping views of the Cambodian countryside.

6. Day trip to Kep and Lapin Island

Just 3 km from Kampot, Kep Beach is known for its white sand and turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand. On the way, the vast salt fields are worth a stop to see how sea salt is harvested. At the beach, don’t miss the lively crab market where fishermen sell their fresh catch. For a quieter escape, take a short boat ride to Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay), a serene spot with soft sand, wooden huts, and calm shallow waters perfect for swimming.

For just $5 (with a free beer), a sunset cruise on the Kampot River is one of the city’s most memorable experiences. Drift past lush scenery as the sky glows over the water—a relaxing, romantic way to end the day.

8. Taste local cuisine at the local market

Kampot Local Market is a must for food lovers. Sample Khmer specialties like fresh crabs, seafood, sticky rice pancakes with banana and coconut, and a variety of tropical fruits from mango to durian. Beyond food, the market also offers local souvenirs and Cambodian specialties, giving visitors an authentic taste of daily life in Kampot.

9. Mangrove Canoe Trip

The Kampot mangrove is a natural wonder among the most diverse wetlands in the world. Fans of canoe, kayak or paddle trips will be able to marvel under the palm trees in this idyllic, tropical and aquatic setting, where man, fauna and flora coexist in harmony. An unforgettable experience in the heart of nature.

3. When is the best time to visit Kampot?

The best time to visit Kampot is from November to March, when the weather is dry, cool, and ideal for sightseeing, dining, and relaxing by the river. For a cultural experience, come in April during Khmer New Year (Chaul Chnam Thmey), when locals celebrate with traditional dress, offerings, food, music, and lively street parties.

>>> Dive into the culture of Cambodian with Cambodian New Year 2025: Everything you need to know!

4. How to get to Kampot? 

Getting to Kampot

• Buses run from Phnom Penh and major cities
• Companies: Giant Ibis, Mekong Express, Virak Buntham
• Fares: US$6–15
• Departures: morning and afternoon
• Book in advance for a seat

Getting around Kampot

• Tuk tuk is the main transport
• About US$15 for a city tour
• Convenient, affordable, and authentic Cambodian experience

5. Where to stay in Kampot?

Here are some accommodation options in Kampot worth considering:

• Rikitikitavi 

Nestled on the banks of the Kampot River, Rikitikitavi is a boutique hotel that offers spectacular water views. With its refined decoration, attentive service and spacious rooms, the Rikitikitavi is an ideal choice for those looking for elegant and comfortable accommodation.

• Sabay Beach

Our last words

Kampot is a destination of choice for travelers looking for an authentic experience combining history, culture and nature. This off-the-beaten-path city offers an opportunity to relax and recharge. Why not consider planning your trip now and experiencing all that Kampot has to offer?

🛕🌴🐅 Continue your trip with us:

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