Distance from Phnom Penh
145 km (approx 3.5 hours by train or taxi)
Gastronomy
PGI-certified Kampot Pepper & Fried Blue Swimmer Crab
Top Nature Park
Preah Monivong Bokor National Park (1,080m)
Vibe
Slow-paced riverfront town with French colonial villas
Riverside Solitude & Organic Pepper Farms
Nestled along the Praek Tuek Chhu river under the shadow of the Elephant Mountains, Kampot is legendary for growing the world's most prized pepper. Certified with a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), Kampot Pepper (black, red, and white) is prized by Michelin-starred French chefs for its complex floral aroma and eucalyptus heat. Tour organic family plantations like La Plantation to learn traditional sun-drying methods.
Kep's Blue Crab Market
Just 25 km down the coast lies the seaside enclave of Kep. At the vibrant seaside Kep Crab Market, local women wade chest-deep into the sea to haul up wooden wicker traps filled with fresh blue swimmer crabs, wok-fried on the spot with green, freshly harvested bunches of fiery Kampot peppercorns.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I travel from Phnom Penh to Kampot?
The Royal Railway of Cambodia operates air-conditioned passenger trains from Phnom Penh Railway Station to Kampot (approx 3.5 hours, $9–$10 USD).