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Kampong Speu

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City
—°4
Kampong Speu (Cambodia)
ℹ️

Practical info — Kampong Speu

🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

  • The province is famous for palm sugar; make sure to buy authentic blocks or syrup directly from local producers.
  • Hire a motodop or tuk-tuk to navigate the town, as public transport is very limited.
  • Plan a day trip to Kirirom National Park to escape the heat and hike among pine forests.
  • Traffic on Highway 4 can be heavy with trucks; be cautious if you are driving a rental scooter.

🍽 Food

🍽
Palm Sugar Sweets

Try various traditional candies and cakes made entirely with the local palm sugar.

🍽
Kuy Teav

A comforting pork and noodle soup, the standard local breakfast at early morning eateries.

🍽
Grilled Chicken

Often sold by roadside vendors on the way to Kirirom, best enjoyed with sticky rice.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

🛍
Authentic Palm Sugar

Find high-quality blocks and liquid syrup at the central market or stalls along Highway 4.

🛍
Morning Produce Market

Visit early to see the spirited trade of local fruits and vegetables.

🧘
Kirirom Pine Forests

The shaded trails in the national park offer a stark, cool contrast to the hot plains below.

🧘
Ampe Phnom

A nature resort with a stream and a swinging bridge, quietest on weekdays.

Kampong Speu is the provincial capital of the eponymous province, located approximately 48 kilometers west of Phnom Penh along National Highway 4. The city and its surrounding areas are famous across Cambodia for the production of high-quality palm sugar, known locally as Thnot, which has received protected geographical indication status. Within the province lies the Kirirom National Park, established in 1944, which features unique pine forests and elevated plateaus offering a cooler climate than the lowlands. Kampong Speu is also home to Phnom Aural, the highest peak in Cambodia, reaching an elevation of 1,813 meters above sea level. The region's economy has diversified in recent years, with the establishment of numerous industrial zones and garment factories providing employment to thousands of residents. Cultural traditions remain strong, particularly the oral recitation of the Reamker and traditional folk dances that are preserved in rural communities.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C262830302827262626262625
Rain mm232456961882913102812981918529

Geography

Population
33,231 (2026)
Coordinates
11.45330, 104.52220

Facts

  • Kampong Speu palm sugar is recognized globally for its superior quality.
  • Phnom Aural, the nation's highest peak, is located in the Aural District.
  • Kirirom National Park covers an area of over 35,000 hectares.
  • The city's name translates to 'The Port of the Starfruit'.
  • The province is a major center for the Cambodian garment industry.
  • Traditional 'Chayam' music and dance are very popular in this region.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Kampong Speu (4)

Wat Tmey⛪ religious

Often referred to as the 'New Temple', this place of worship provides religious services to the urban population of Kampong Speu.

Wat Mrom (North)⛪ religious

A place of worship situated in the rural landscape of the Kampong Speu region.

Wat Sambour📍 landmark

A serene Buddhist temple located in the Kampong Speu region.

Wat Ampe Phnom⛪ religious

A religious sanctuary set amidst the scenic environment of Kampong Speu.

Frequently asked questions

What is the main attraction in Kampong Speu?
Kirirom National Park features pine forests, waterfalls, and cooler climates for hiking.
What is Kampong Speu province known for?
It is the hub of palm sugar production in Cambodia, marked by the many sugar palm trees.
How far is it from Phnom Penh?
The city is about 50 km west of Phnom Penh and can be reached in approximately 1.5 hours.
Can you stay overnight in Kirirom?
Yes, there are resorts and glamping options within and near the national park.
Are there local markets to visit?
Psar Chah market in the city center features fresh produce and a glimpse into local life.
Kampong Speu: where is it located?
Kampong Speu is located in Cambodia.
Kampong Speu: what is there to see?
Highlights include Wat Tmey, Wat Mrom (North), Wat Sambour.
Kampong Speu: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Kampong Speu: why is it worth visiting?
Kampong Speu is the provincial capital of the eponymous province, located approximately 48 kilometers west of Phnom Penh along National Highway 4.
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