Preah Monivong National Park - Bokor Mountain

Exploring the Wonders of Preah Monivong Bokor National Park

Nestled in the beautiful mountain ranges of Cambodia, the Preah Monivong Bokor National Park is a stunning natural wonder that is home to an array of flora and fauna. The park is located in the Kampot Province and is spread over an area of 1,581 square kilometers. It was established in 1993 and is named after King Monivong, who used to visit the region to escape the heat of the lowlands.

The History of Preah Monivong Bokor National Park

The history of the Preah Monivong Bokor National Park dates back to the early 1920s when the French colonial authorities decided to build a hill station in the region. The hill station was meant to be a retreat for the colonial officials who wanted to escape the heat and humidity of the lowlands. The construction of the hill station was completed in 1925 and it soon became a popular destination for the French elite.

During the Khmer Rouge regime, the hill station was abandoned and the buildings were used as a base for the Khmer Rouge forces. After the fall of the regime, the buildings were left in ruins until they were renovated in the 1990s.

Flora and Fauna

The Preah Monivong Bokor National Park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The park is known for its dense forests, which are home to various species of plants, including orchids, ferns and bromeliads. The park is also home to several rare and endangered animal species, including the clouded leopard, sun bear, Asian elephant and banteng.

What to See and Do

There are several things to see and do at the Preah Monivong Bokor National Park. Here are some of the top attractions:

Bokor Hill Station

The Bokor Hill Station is the most famous attraction in the park. The hill station was built by the French colonial authorities in the 1920s and features several buildings, including a church, a casino and a hotel. The buildings were abandoned during the Khmer Rouge regime and were left in ruins until they were renovated in the 1990s.

Popokvil Waterfall

The Popokvil Waterfall is a stunning natural wonder that is located in the park. The waterfall is surrounded by lush forests and is a popular spot for picnics and relaxation.

Phnom Bokor

Phnom Bokor is the highest peak in the park and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The peak is accessible by car or on foot and is a popular spot for hiking and trekking.

Wildlife Watching

The Preah Monivong Bokor National Park is home to several rare and endangered animal species, including the clouded leopard, sun bear, Asian elephant and banteng. Wildlife watching is a popular activity in the park and visitors can spot these animals in their natural habitats.

Getting There

The Preah Monivong Bokor National Park is located in the Kampot Province and is easily accessible by car or bus from Phnom Penh or Sihanoukville. The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is from November to February when the weather is cool and dry.

Conclusion

The Preah Monivong Bokor National Park is a stunning natural wonder that is home to an array of flora and fauna. The park's rich history, diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Cambodia. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or adventure, the Preah Monivong Bokor National Park has something for everyone.