Situated in the lush highlands of southwestern Cambodia, Preah Monivong Bokor National Park reveals misty mountains, wild jungles, and remains of a faded colonial era. This sprawling protected area, spanning over 1,500 square kilometres, attracts adventurers and nature enthusiasts. Whether you seek an adrenaline-fueled trek through pristine wilderness, a glimpse into Cambodia’s rich biodiversity, or an opportunity to explore a haunting piece of history, Preah Monivong Bokor National Park promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Cambodia’s highlands.
About Preah Monivong Bokor National Park
Image Credit: Petr Ruzicka for Wikimedia Commons
Preah Monivong Bokor National Park is a vast national park encompassing 1,544 square kilometres in Cambodia’s southern Kampot Province. Established in 1993, the park is a treasure trove of natural beauty and historical intrigue.
The park is within the Dâmrei Mountains, which form the southeastern extension of the Cardamom Mountains. Much of the park’s terrain is roughly 1,000 meters above sea level, with Phnom Bokor, or Bokor Mountain, the highest peak at 1,081 meters.
The park boasts a rich variety of flora and fauna. The dense rainforests shelter diverse wildlife, including the Asiatic black bear, Malayan sun bear, clouded leopard, pileated gibbon, pig-tailed macaque, slow loris, and pangolin. While sightings are uncommon, elephants and tigers once roamed the park. The park is also a haven for over 300 species of birds, including several types of hornbill.
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History Of Preah Monivong Bokor National Park
Image Credit: Bùi Thụy Đào Nguyên for Wikipedia
Preah Monivong Bokor National Park boasts a rich history intertwined with French colonialism, Cambodian royalty, and a period of unrest. In the 1920s, French colonists seeking respite from Cambodia’s sweltering lowlands set their sights on the Dâmrei Mountains. Led by King Sisowath Monivong, they established a retreat – Bokor Hill Station – at an elevation of over 1,000 metres. Sadly, Bokor Hill Station’s glory days were short-lived. Cambodia’s political turmoil cast a long shadow. The area declined after King Monivong died in 1941 and declined within the park’s borders. The Khmer Rouge’s gain of power in the 1970s further sealed its fate. The Hill Station was abandoned and left to the ravages of time and jungle, slowly transforming into an eerie, atmospheric ghost town.
With the end of Khmer Rouge rule in the late 1980s, Cambodia began rebuilding. In 1993, Preah Monivong Bokor National Park was officially established, recognising the region’s natural significance. The park’s vast area, encompassing over 1,500 square kilometres, offered sanctuary to diverse wildlife, including endangered species like the pileated gibbon and sun bear. In 2003, Preah Monivong Bokor received further recognition by being designated as an ASEAN Heritage Park. This designation highlights the park’s importance for biodiversity conservation within the Southeast Asian region.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Preah Monivong Bokor National Park?
The best time to visit Preah Monivong Bokor National Park depends on your visiting season. Here is the best time to visit during the various seasons:
1. Dry Season (December – March)
Image Credit: Bùi Thụy Đào Nguyên for Wikipedia
This is the most fabulous and driest time to visit Bokor National Park. Temperatures are comfortable, ranging from the low 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (around 21-27°C) during the day and can drop to the low 60s Fahrenheit (around 16°C) at night.
With minimal rain, you’ll have the best chance of experiencing clear skies and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
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2. Shoulder Seasons (April – May, September – November)
If you prefer a less crowded experience, April-May and September-November are good shoulder seasons to visit. The weather is still generally pleasant, although slightly higher temperatures and humidity are expected compared to the dry season.
There’s also a chance of occasional showers, but not enough to disrupt your trip. The shoulder seasons, particularly towards the tail end of the monsoon season, are the best time to see Popokvil Waterfall at its fullest.
How To Reach Preah Monivong Bokor National Park?
Bokor National Park is a prominent destination in Cambodia in the Kampot Province. To reach this scenic and historical park, you can choose from several modes of transportation, including:
By Car
The easiest way to get to the park is by car. You can either rent a car or hire a driver. From Phnom Penh, you can take National Highway 3 for about four hours to reach Bokor Hill Station, which is located near the park entrance.
The drive to the park from Kampot is shorter, taking about an hour. Take National Highway 3 for about 8 kilometres, then turn left onto the road that leads up to the park. The road is paved to the summit but can be winding and steep in some places.
The drive to the park from Sihanoukville is about 95 kilometres. Take National Highway 3 for about 60 kilometres, then turn left onto the road leading up to the park.
By Bike
Renting a motorbike is a common choice for exploring the park independently. An experienced rider is essential because the roads can be difficult.
By Cab
You can also hire a taxi to take you to the park. This is a good option if you are uncomfortable driving or riding a bike.
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Preah Monivong Bokor National Park invites you to discover its beauty. From eerie abandoned buildings in misty surroundings to vibrant forests bustling with wildlife, this park promises an unforgettable adventure. When planning your trip to Cambodia, make sure to include Preah Monivong Bokor National Park in your itinerary to immerse yourself in its captivating atmosphere and create lasting memories. Don’t miss out—book your trip today for a unique and extraordinary experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Preah Monivong Bokor National Park
What animals live in Preah Monivong National Park?
Preah Monivong National Park is a haven for various animal species. Elephants, pileated gibbons, gaurs, bantengs, Indian civets, dholes, and Asiatic black bears call this park home. Additionally, bird watchers will be delighted to spot species like the chestnut-headed partridge and green peafowl.
Are there tigers in Bokor National Park?
Historically, tigers roamed freely in Bokor National Park. However, it’s believed that they have since been driven out.
What is the history of the Bokor Mountain?
Bokor Mountain’s history is steeped in the French colonial era of Cambodia. The French colonists established a hill station on the mountain to respite from the tropical heat and humidity. They erected several grand structures, including a palace, a casino, a church, and a hotel. The area was later abandoned, used as a stronghold by the Khmer Rouge, and finally established as a national park in 1993.
How long do you need at Bokor National Park?
A visit to Bokor National Park is a rewarding experience that typically requires around 5-6 hours. This duration allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the park’s stunning natural landscapes, hiking trails, and historical landmarks.
What makes Bokor National Park unique?
Bokor National Park stands out for its unique natural splendour and historical significance. The park’s status as an ASEAN Heritage Park further underscores its importance due to its rich biodiversity.
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