Mondulkiri

Cambodia - Getting to know Mondulkiri

Mondulkiri, seven hours north-east of Phnom Penh and tucked up against the border with Vietnam, is Cambodia's largest (but least populated) province. Its population of barely 40,000 consists mostly of Phnong, Banong and other minority tribes, many of whom have maintained the same way of life for centuries in the region's forests and hills.

Cambodia Mondulkiri Travel Guide

The journey from Phnom Penh to Mondulkiri's tiny provincial capital, Sen Monorom, climbs gradually through some of Cambodia's most beautiful countryside, known for its high waterfalls, river gorges, pristine jungle, pretty fruit and vegetable orchards, and refreshing micro-climate, which makes a welcome change to Cambodia's hotter areas.

What to do in Mondulkiri

    Visit the impressive, two-tiered Bou Sraa Waterfall, the highest in Cambodia

    Take in the outstanding panoramas across ‘Sea Forest’

    Explore Banong villages, with their distinctive thatched turtle houses.

    Trekking, mountain biking and elephant treks can easily be factored into your programme.

    The town of Sen Monorom is also worth a visit. The best of Cambodia’s coffee is grown in the region, and any bean lovers will undoubtedly enjoy a plantation visit.

Worth noting

Travel around Mondulkiri can be difficult in the dry season, and impossible in the wet. Russian jeeps and motorbikes are the favoured modes of transport, and the tracks and paths are often pretty tough going. However, a visit to Mondulkiri offers adventurous travellers the chance to explore one of Cambodia's last wild frontiers, and experience a truly magical wilderness.

'Tourist numbers here are extremely low, and the region is home to a diverse range of wildlife including elephants, leopards, and tigers. There are rumours that rhinoceros inhabit the remotest parts.'