Explore Kampot in 2025: What to Know Before You Visit!

Explore Kampot in 2025: What to Know Before You Visit!

Planning to explore Kampot in 2025? You're in for a treat. Nestled along the serene banks of the Praek Tuek Chhu River, Kampot continues to evolve while keeping its laid-back charm. With new cafes, boutique resorts, and eco-tourism activities popping up, plus its famous pepper farms and scenic mountain views, this riverside town is more vibrant than ever. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for another peaceful getaway, here’s everything you need to know before you go.

"Explore Kampot in 2025 with confidence! Discover what to know before you visit, top attractions, travel tips, what’s new, and how to plan the perfect trip".

1. Why Visit Kampot in 2025?

🌿Kampot has always been known for its relaxed vibe, colonial-era architecture, and beautiful natural surroundings, but in 2025, it's becoming even more of a must-visit destination in Cambodia. This peaceful riverside town continues to attract both backpackers and boutique travellers, thanks to its unique blend of old-world charm, natural beauty, and exciting modern developments.

🛶 Located just a few hours from Phnom Penh, Kampot offers a completely different pace of life. Here, time seems to slow down. You can stroll through quiet streets lined with French colonial buildings, sip a locally brewed coffee along the river, or take a tuk-tuk into the countryside to explore caves, salt fields, and pepper plantations. It’s a place where you can disconnect from the chaos and reconnect with nature, culture, and yourself.

2. How to Get to Kampot?

Getting to Kampot in 2025 is easier and more convenient than ever before, thanks to several updated travel options from Cambodia’s major cities and nearby destinations. Whether you’re arriving from Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, or even further afield, there’s a mode of transport that fits every budget, schedule, and travel style.

🚍By Bus: Affordable and Popular:

The bus is the most popular and budget-friendly way to reach Kampot, especially from Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville. Multiple bus companies run daily routes, ranging from local shuttle buses to more comfortable VIP coaches with air conditioning and reclining seats. The trip from Phnom Penh typically takes around 3 to 3.5 hours and costs approximately $6 to $8 with Kimseng Express, while the journey from Sihanoukville takes about 2 to 2.5 hours.

Buses depart regularly throughout the day, making it easy to find a schedule that suits your itinerary. Most buses drop you off near the Kampot town centre or at the bus terminal, where tuk-tuks are readily available to take you to your accommodation.

🚆By Train: Scenic and Relaxed

One of the most charming ways to travel to Kampot is by train. Cambodia’s rail network has seen some improvements recently, and the Phnom Penh to Kampot route offers a leisurely and picturesque journey through the countryside. The train ride takes roughly 4 to 5 hours and provides a unique opportunity to see rural Cambodia from a slower, more relaxed perspective.

Trains run a few times a week, so be sure to check the current schedule before planning your trip. The Kampot train station is conveniently located within walking distance of the town centre.

🚗By Private Car or Taxi: Fast and Flexible

For those who prefer convenience and comfort, hiring a private car or taxi is a great choice. It’s ideal for families, groups, or travellers with tight schedules. The drive from Phnom Penh to Kampot typically takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Private transfers can be arranged through many hotels, guesthouses, or travel agencies, often with English-speaking drivers. This option allows you to travel at your own pace, stop for photo ops along the way, and enjoy a direct door-to-door service.

3. Top Things to Do in Kampot

Kampot offers a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to all types of travellers. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking to unwind by the river, Kampot has something special for you. Here are some of the top things to do during your visit in 2025:

🌄 Explore Bokor National Park:

One of Kampot’s most famous attractions, Bokor National Park is a stunning natural reserve featuring mist-covered mountains, dense forests, waterfalls, and historic French colonial ruins. The drive or hike up Bokor Mountain offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the Gulf of Thailand. Don’t miss the abandoned Bokor Palace Hotel and the old Catholic church for some atmospheric photo ops.

🌶️ Visit the Pepper Plantations:

Kampot is renowned worldwide for its high-quality Kampot pepper. Take a guided tour of a pepper farm to learn about the cultivation process, from planting to harvesting. You’ll also get to sample different varieties of this prized spice, which is an essential ingredient in Cambodian cuisine.

🚤 Enjoy a Sunset River Cruise:

The Kampot River is the heart of the town, and a sunset cruise is one of the best ways to experience its tranquil beauty. Hop on a traditional wooden boat and glide along the river as the sky turns vibrant shades of orange and pink. Many operators offer drinks and snacks on board, making it a perfect way to relax after a day of exploring.

🛶 Paddleboarding and Kayaking:

For those who love water sports, renting a paddleboard or kayak on the Kampot River is a fun and active way to take in the scenery. Paddle at your own pace and discover hidden corners along the riverbanks, surrounded by lush greenery.

🕍 Discover Kampot’s Colonial Town:

Wander through the charming streets of Kampot’s colonial town centre, where you’ll find beautifully preserved French colonial buildings, lively markets, and cosy cafés. Don’t miss the old town hall and the night market, which offer a taste of local street food and crafts.

🐒Visit Phnom Chhngok Cave Temple:

Located about 12 kilometres from Kampot, Phnom Chhngok is a unique limestone cave temple dating back to the 7th or 8th century. Explore the cave’s natural formations and ancient carvings, then enjoy the peaceful surrounding countryside.

🌿 Relax at Secret Lake:

If you’re looking to escape the crowds, Secret Lake is a hidden gem surrounded by nature. It’s a great spot for a picnic, swimming, or simply enjoying the tranquillity of the outdoors.

🍽️ Savour Local Cuisine:

Don’t miss out on Kampot’s vibrant food scene. Sample fresh seafood by the river, try traditional Khmer dishes, and taste locally produced pepper in various meals. There are plenty of street food stalls, markets, and restaurants offering everything from authentic Cambodian flavours to international cuisine.

Whether you’re up for adventure or relaxation, Kampot’s diverse attractions ensure you’ll have a memorable trip in 2025.

4. Final Thoughts

Kampot in 2025 is the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and laid-back atmosphere. Whether you're travelling solo, as a couple, or with friends and family, this riverside town offers something for everyone. From its peaceful river cruises and world-famous pepper farms to the misty heights of Bokor Mountain and the hidden corners of its colonial streets, Kampot invites you to slow down and truly experience Cambodia at its most authentic.

What makes Kampot stand out isn’t just the attractions, it’s the feeling you get while you're there. It’s the slow mornings with a coffee by the river, the friendly locals who welcome you with a smile, and the sense that you’ve stepped into a place where time doesn’t need to move so fast.

As Cambodia continues to grow as a travel destination, Kampot remains a gentle reminder of what makes travel meaningful: connection, simplicity, and discovery. So if you’re planning your 2025 itinerary, make sure Kampot is on the list; you won’t regret it.