Bokor Hill Station

Description

[Bokor Hill Station](https://www.bestpricetravel.com/travel-guide/bokor-hill-station.html) stands as a fascinating time capsule perched atop Bokor Mountain in Cambodia’s Kampot Province. This former French colonial retreat from the 1920s has transformed into a curious blend of history and modern development. At roughly 1,000 meters above sea level, the crisp mountain air and dramatic coastal views make it feel worlds away from Cambodia’s typical tropical climate.

Let me tell ya, the first time I visited in early 2024, I was struck by how the misty mornings created an almost ethereal atmosphere around the old abandoned buildings. The way the fog rolls in and out throughout the day adds this mysterious vibe that photographers absolutely live for.

Key Features

• The abandoned Old Casino building – a hauntingly beautiful art deco structure that’s become Instagram-famous
• Wat Sampov Pram – a Buddhist temple with incredible Gulf of Thailand views
• The new Thansur Bokor Highland Resort – complete with modern gaming facilities
• Historic Catholic Church – a weathered reminder of French colonial presence
• Several viewing platforms offering panoramic vistas of the coastline
• The old Black Palace – King Sihanouk’s former holiday residence
• Various hiking trails through the surrounding Bokor National Park
• A collection of French colonial buildings in various states of preservation

Best Time to Visit

Y’know what’s funny about Bokor? The weather up here plays by its own rules. From my experience, November through February offers the most reliable conditions – you’ll get clearer skies and less rainfall. But honestly? I kinda dig visiting during the rainy season (May to October) when the mountain gets shrouded in mist. Just pack a light raincoat and embrace the moody atmosphere.

The temperature typically hovers around 20°C (68°F), which is a welcome relief from the coastal heat. Pro tip: early mornings tend to offer the best visibility for those postcard-worthy photos you’re after.

How to Get There

Getting to Bokor Hill Station is half the adventure! From Kampot town, you’ve got several options. I usually recommend renting a motorbike – it’s about a 40-minute ride up a well-maintained mountain road with plenty of spots to pull over and snap photos. The switchbacks are pretty wild, but the road’s in good shape.

If you’re not comfortable on two wheels, grab a tuk-tuk or join a guided tour from Kampot. Some folks even hire private cars, which is great if you’re traveling with family or want to explore at your own pace. The drive itself is spectacular – you’ll wind through dense forest before breaking out into stunning viewpoints.

Tips for Visiting

Look, I’ve made enough trips up this mountain to know a thing or two about making the most of your visit. First off, start early – like, sunrise early if you can handle it. The morning light is gorgeous, and you’ll beat both the heat and the crowds.

Bring layers! The temperature difference between Kampot and Bokor can be surprisingly significant. I learned this the hard way my first time up. And don’t forget your camera – the atmospheric conditions create some incredible photo opportunities, especially when the clouds roll in.

Pack some snacks and water. While there are places to eat at the new resort, having your own supplies gives you more flexibility to explore. The mountain can be pretty exposed, so sunscreen is essential even on cloudy days.

Give yourself at least 4-5 hours to explore properly. There’s a lot of ground to cover, and you’ll want time to soak in the atmosphere of each location. The old casino building alone deserves a good hour of your time – just watch your step in some of the more weathered areas.

And here’s something most guides won’t tell you: the best views aren’t always from the official viewpoints. Some of my favorite spots are the random pulloffs along the access road. Oh, and if you’re visiting during rainy season, those gorgeous misty photos you see? They’re usually taken between cloud breaks, so patience is key.

Remember to bring cash for entrance fees and keep some small bills handy for parking if you’re driving. The cell service can be spotty up here, so download any maps you might need beforehand. Trust me, getting lost in some of these old buildings isn’t as fun as it sounds!

I’d also suggest wearing decent walking shoes – you’ll be doing quite a bit of exploring on various surfaces, and those old colonial tiles can get slippery when wet. And one last thing – don’t skip the Black Palace! Most tourists head straight for the old casino, but the palace offers some of the most interesting architecture and best photo ops on the mountain.

Location

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