Sometimes you just need to get away from it all. Perhaps a spot where life is quiet, where things are simple and the peppers are quiet zingy. Introducing Kampot, the country’ small, ambient riverside town near the Gulf of Thailand. This is where some of the world’s best peppers are produced.

This is it. The town is known for its peaceful ambiance and its sleepy atmosphere. And talk about positioning. Its location makes it a great base for those looking to explore the Bokor Mountains where the famous colonial hill station and national park is. Just a few hours northeast is the capital, Phnom Penh. A short ride west takes you to the beaches of Sihanoukville. The seaside town of Kep can be reached with a short drive and Vietnam is just one hour away.

The town itself is separated by the Kampot River and connected by three bridges. The riverfront is fairly quiet and quite picturesque with several restaurants along the riverbanks. Because of its small size, walking around town is easy and convenient. Cycling is also another great way to get to know Kampot. And yes, the town makes a great resting stop after touring the temples of Angkor over at Siem Reap.

So, what else is there to see around here other than the riverbank? Head over to the center of town to the market for some atmosphere absorption. Phnom Sasear, 10 kilometers outside of Kampot is a small cave that houses a Buddhist shrine. There are also several Buddhist temples across the river.

But a visit to Kampot is lost really if you haven’t visited the town’s renowned pepper farms. You have to try it with the crab. Makes for an awesome combination. Not too far from here are some durian farms. These fruits quite literally pack a punch! The smell is really something! And the taste? Give it a shot. And the skin is quite tough and sharp. Be careful around these fruits, ok?

Looking for lunch? Why not by a waterfall? Teuk Chreu, about 20 minutes from town is a popular place where locals like to hang out. Picnicking here is also a favorite activity here. Pick your spot, get your food and eat. Perhaps you’ve brought along some of that pepper and durian?

Take the Grand Tour of Cambodia. Everything is covered, land, sea, temples, people and culture. If you want to include Kampot in this program, just contact us.

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