Kirirom National Park — Attraction in Kampong Speu

Upon my recent visit to the highly acclaimed park, I must admit that I was left feeling somewhat let down. Although this personal account is solely my own, I sincerely hope your experience is more enjoyable and fulfilling.

When visiting the park, it's important to note that foreigners must pay a fee of $5 for entrance, while locals only need to pay Riel 2,000. When driving on roads with potholes, beggars may block your path while eagerly flapping their caps for cash. It would be best to take appropriate measures to avoid such situations and keep driving. I witnessed an individual engaging in fraudulent activities by blocking the road with an orange traffic cone and handing out counterfeit tickets for Riel 2000 under the guise of collecting funds for park cleaning. When confronted, I threatened to report him, and he left empty-handed.

Preah Pothisat Kirirom Pagoda 🌹 During a recent visit to Kirirom National Park, I stumbled upon a remarkable pagoda concealed from sight. Surprisingly, it was not listed on Google Maps, so I took the initiative to add it myself.

According to a local lady, a monk has devoted the past 27 years to constructing numerous exquisite pagodas in the area. If you take a leisurely walk around, you will come across some stunningly crafted pagodas. The photos I'm sharing truly capture their beauty. Additionally, there are plenty of shaded areas where you can sit, enjoy a refreshing drink, and have a relaxing picnic. Additionally, there is a shop, restrooms, and abundant parking space. This place is truly remarkable and needs to be experienced to be fully...

Kirirom is a unique place in Cambodia that I try to visit every couple of months (preferably NOT on a major national holiday unless you love being in the crowd) to get out of PP and experience nature. It's a good 40-minute uphill drive from the highway 4 turnoff to get up into the park so you need to be in a private vehicle or hired van. Halfway up there's a park entrance where you will pay a park entrance fee that is currently $5 per adult foreigner. Once up in the park proper, you will find long winding trails (for walking, biking, or moto riding) through hills covered in evergreen pine trees, cooler temperatures, and several lakes and streams. I have seen a trail map before but it's hard to find. Just log a GPS track on your phone so you can retrace your steps, then go exploring. There are limited food options up here other than the resort restaurant (which is spendy) and roadside snack shops. The "waterfall" is a popular picnic spot that I steer clear of because of the crowds and because it's not much of a waterfall.

One thing to be aware of is the sad reality of lots of trash on the ground. Most roadside pulloffs and easily accessible viewpoints are littered with piles of trash from picnic lunches (more remote parts of the park are cleaner). This is frustrating for westerners but you need to remember that it is still the cultural norm and will take a major national "keep our parks clean" campaign to change this. For now I just take along a big trash bag and gloves each time I go so I can leave my favorite spots cleaner than...

Kirirom National Park is a hidden gem, a verdant oasis just a few hours away from bustling Phnom Penh. As you ascend the winding roads, the air grows cooler, and the scent of pine trees envelops you. Here, nature reigns supreme. The Pine Forest and Breathtaking Views The park’s pine forest is a soothing respite. Stroll along the meandering trails, and you’ll encounter small wooden bridges spanning crystal-clear streams. The rustling leaves and distant bird calls create a symphony of tranquility. And then, there are the viewpoints—cliffs that reveal sweeping vistas of lush valleys and mist-kissed peaks. It’s as if nature herself painted this canvas.

The Enchanting New Pagoda Amidst the greenery, discover the New Pagoda. Its intricate architecture and serene ambiance make it a must-visit.

Recommendations: Weekday Visit: Plan your trip on a weekday to savor the solitude.

Explore: Beyond the pine forest, explore the hidden waterfalls and pristine lakes.

Kirirom National Park is a sanctuary where time slows down, and the soul rejuvenates. Let the whispering pines and distant horizons remind you of life’s...