Plizio Visual Lab
Cardamom Mountains
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Mountain
Weather…
Water temperature…
The Cardamom Mountains, known locally as Chuor Phnom Kravanh, span across southwestern Cambodia and represent one of Southeast Asia's largest remaining rainforest corridors. This mountain range is a global biodiversity hotspot, providing a critical sanctuary for endangered species such as the Asian elephant, clouded leopard, and the Siamese crocodile. It contains the country's highest peak, Phnom Aural, which rises to 1,813 meters above sea level. Geographically, the area is defined by dense primary forests, deep valleys, and numerous remote waterfalls that remained largely unexplored for decades due to their rugged terrain. Historically, the mountains served as a final stronghold during Cambodia's civil conflicts, leaving a legacy of landmines that hindered development but inadvertently protected the wilderness. Today, the region is a major focus for international conservation groups working to prevent deforestation from illegal logging and land encroachment. Sustainable ecotourism initiatives are being developed to provide local communities with alternatives to poaching and forest clearing.
- Location: Cambodia
- Nearby: Tatai (24 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 24 | 25 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 24 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 29 | 39 | 84 | 122 | 252 | 407 | 486 | 430 | 424 | 225 | 74 | 23 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Reaching this remote region often begins from towns like Koh Kong or Pursat, followed by travel over rugged dirt roads. Access to deeper jungle areas typically requires hiring local guides and utilizing specialized 4WD vehicles or motorbikes.
Best season
The dry season, spanning November to April, is vastly preferable, as paths are firmer and river crossings are safer. The wet season brings torrential rains that turn dirt tracks into impassable mud, significantly limiting travel into the mountains.
Terrain & paths
The landscape is famously rugged, blanketed in thick, largely unbroken rainforest and steep mountain ridges. Trekking involves navigating dense undergrowth, natural obstacles, and muddy trails that demand excellent physical fitness.
What to bring
Comprehensive jungle trekking gear is mandatory: sturdy hiking boots, long trousers to prevent scratches, and effective leech socks. Abundant insect repellent, water purification supplies, and waterproof dry bags are essential for survival.
Parking
Visitors usually leave personal vehicles in secure areas at their starting points, such as guesthouses in Koh Kong. Penetrating the actual mountain range relies entirely on organized transport or multi-day trekking on foot.
Safety
Navigating this vast wilderness requires an experienced local guide due to the risk of getting lost and unexploded ordnance in remote areas. Malaria and other tropical diseases are a concern, making appropriate prophylaxis highly advisable.
Time needed
Fully experiencing the depth of these mountains requires booking a multi-day guided trek, normally lasting three to five days. Shorter, single-day edge excursions are possible from eco-lodges, but offer only a glimpse of the habitat.
Geography
Facts
- Phnom Aural is Cambodia's highest point at 1,813 meters elevation.
- The range covers one of the largest rainforest areas in Southeast Asia.
- Over 25 globally threatened vertebrate species reside in the range.
- Annual rainfall in the region can reach up to 5,000 mm.
- The mountains span across an area of approximately 4.4 million hectares.
- Ten previously unknown plant species were discovered here in 2011.
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.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What can you do in the Cardamom Mountains?
Jungle trekking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting are the main activities.
Are there dangerous animals?
Elephants and venomous snakes live here; treks should only be done with a guide.
What is the accommodation situation like?
Options range from simple homestays in Chi Phat to luxury eco-tent camps.
When is the best time for hiking?
The dry season from November to February features pleasant temperatures and dry trails.
Is the region malaria-free?
No, mosquito protection and prior medical advice are strongly recommended.
Cardamom Mountains: where is it located?
Cardamom Mountains is located in Cambodia.
Cardamom Mountains: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Cardamom Mountains: why is it worth visiting?
The Cardamom Mountains, known locally as Chuor Phnom Kravanh, span across southwestern Cambodia and represent one of Southeast Asia's largest remaining rainforest corridors.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Cambodia →
Nearby cities
Koh Kong
Located near the Thai border, Koh Kong is the gateway to vast mangrove forests and the pristine Cardamom Mountains.
Tatai
Tatai is located in Koh Kong province and is famous for its wide waterfall.
Chi Phat
Chi Phat is a flagship ecotourism project in the Cardamom Mountains.
Battambang
Cambodia's second-largest city is famous for its well-preserved French colonial architecture and the surrounding fertile agricultural lan…
Daeum Tkov Village
An authentic fishing village in the north of Koh Rong with pristine beaches and local flair.
Long Set
Long Set Beach on Koh Rong is a 4-kilometer stretch of white sand.
Koh Rong
Cambodia's largest island, famous for its sparkling white sandy beaches, bioluminescent plankton, and vibrant nightlife.
Koh Rong Sanloem
A peaceful and relaxed alternative to its larger sister island, known for tranquil bays and unspoiled natural beauty.
Sihanoukville
This coastal city on the Gulf of Thailand is Cambodia's only deep-water port and a rapidly growing economic center.
Otres Beach
A formerly quiet stretch of sandy beach south of Sihanoukville on the Gulf of Thailand.
Kaev Phos
A quiet coastal town in Cambodia, ideal for travelers seeking undiscovered beaches and local peace.
Sisophon
As the capital of Banteay Meanchey province, Sisophon is a major transport junction connecting routes in the northwest.
Samraong
This remote outpost in the rugged north serves as the administrative center for Oddar Meanchey and access to the O'Smach border region.
Ban Mai Rut
A peaceful fishing community in Trat province, offering secluded beaches and authentic local life.
🗺️
Koh Thmei
An unspoiled island located within Ream National Park, known for its wildlife and mangrove forests.
History & landmarks
Nature
Areng Valley
A remote and natural river valley in the heart of the Cardamom Mountains that has fought for its cultural and biological uniqueness.
Tatai River
A picturesque, tranquil river in the Cardamom Mountains, flowing through dense jungle and mangrove forests to the Gulf of Thailand.
🗺️
Botum Sakor Peninsula
A large peninsula projecting into the Gulf of Thailand, covered by dense forests.
Koh Kong Coast
A rugged and remote coastal stretch in the west, rich in mangroves and islands.
Koh Rong Coast
The beaches and coasts of Koh Rong island offer white sand and crystal-clear waters.
Ream Coast
A coastline characterized by mangrove forests and quiet beaches in the south.
More places
Central Cardamom Protected Forest
A gigantic forest corridor connecting various nature reserves, representing one of the most important carbon sinks and wildlife passages …
Tatay Hydropower Plant
A modern hydropower project on the Tatay River in Koh Kong Province, contributing to national energy security.
Koh Kong Reptile Conservation Center
A specialized facility dedicated to the protection of highly endangered crocodile species and turtles in Cambodia.
Koh Kong Special Economic Zone
An emerging industrial area on the Thai border, promoting cross-border trade.
🗺️
Kirirom 1 Hydropower Plant
A smaller but historically important hydropower plant in the Cardamom Mountains, supplying power to Phnom Penh.
Cardamom Mountains
One of the largest intact forest regions in Southeast Asia, located in southwestern Cambodia.
Veal Veng Crocodile Sanctuary
A remote and protected wetland in the Cardamom Mountains, serving as an important refuge for the rare Siamese crocodile.
🗺️
Stung Atay Hydropower Plant
Another important power generation facility in the remote areas of Pursat Province.