Kirirom National Park

Introducing Kirirom National Park

The hill station of Kirirom (entry US$5), set amid lush forest and pine groves, has been established as a national park. It is popular with Khmers at weekends as it is 675m above sea level with a climate notably cooler than Phnom Penh. There are several small waterfalls in the park, which are popular picnic spots for Khmers, and a number of basic walking trails. For a more substantial walk, consider hooking up with a ranger (US$5 or so) for a two-hour hike up to Phnom Dat Chivit (End of the World Mountain) where an abrupt cliff-face offers an unbroken view of the Elephant Mountains and Cardamom Mountains to the west. It is often possible to see wildlife on this trail, including black bears scavenging the pine trees for honey.

Kirirom is one of the few national parks to have a nearby community tourism programme. Set just beyond the park bound­aries, Chambok Community-based Ecotourism (012 355272; ccben_cam@yahoo.com; www.geocities.com/chambokcbet/; entry per adult/child US$3/1) programme is based in Chambok village, where attractions include a 40m-high waterfall, traditional ox-cart rides (Cambodia’s original 4WDs) and nature walks. It is also possible to sample traditional Cambodian country fare at the small restaurant or arrange a local homestay with a bit of notice. Originally established by local NGO Mlup Baitong (023-214409; mlup@online.com.kh), a percentage of the proceeds is pumped back into the local community.

Last updated: Mar 2, 2009