Off‑Road Trails & Caves to Explore in Kampong Trach in 2025

Overview

Kampong Trach, a quiet district in Cambodia’s Kampot Province, is emerging as one of the country’s most underrated adventure spots. Known for its dramatic limestone karsts, hidden cave temples, and rural backroads, this area is perfect for travellers looking to escape the tourist crowds and explore the wild side of Cambodia.

In 2025, Kampong Trach is gaining popularity among off-road enthusiasts, nature lovers, and cultural explorers thanks to improved local access and growing eco-tourism interest. The area is ideal for motorbike trips, scooter rides, or 4x4 off-road tours, winding through rice fields, small villages, and striking rocky hills.

Whether you want to climb into sacred caves, meet local monks, swim in hidden lagoons, or just enjoy the ride through untouched landscapes, Kampong Trach offers the perfect mix of adventure and authenticity.

This guide highlights the best off-road trails, must-see caves, and insider tips to help you explore Kampong Trach in 2025, safely and memorably.

🌄 Top Trails & Cave Highlights: Kampong Trach in 2025

One of the must-visit attractions in Kampong Trach is the Phnom Kampong Trach Cave, a dramatic limestone cave system filled with Buddhist shrines, natural skylights, and towering stalactites. The partially collapsed ceiling allows sunlight to stream in, creating a stunning atmosphere perfect for quiet reflection and photography. It’s accessible by motorbike, tuk-tuk, or private car, though the last stretch of the road may be rough. Inside, the walk is easy to moderate, depending on how deep you explore. The best time to visit is during the dry season (November to April), and the entrance fee is minimal, just $1 to $2 USD. Arriving early or late in the day helps avoid the midday heat.

Another unique site is the Circle Cave, entered through a Buddhist pagoda. This cave is spiritually significant and frequently visited by local monks. A hidden "secret passage" adds a touch of adventure, especially if you bring a flashlight. The trail to the cave is fairly easy to navigate, but can be muddy in the rainy season. A moderate walk with a local guide is recommended, especially for first-timers. This spot is ideal during the dry season, and proper footwear is essential.

For those who enjoy a bit more physical activity, the Windy Mountain and Rockman area offers an uphill trek through sharp karst formations with sweeping views over the rural countryside. Along the way, you’ll likely meet locals like the famed “Rockman,” who collects and trades natural stones. The trail is steep and can be slippery when wet, so it’s best for fit travellers. Morning hikes are ideal for cooler weather and clearer skies. Don’t forget to pack water and wear closed shoes.

The Sun and Moon Caves offer a peaceful contrast. The Sun Cave features a sacred seasonal lake that’s swimmable at certain times of the year, while the Moon Cave provides a scenic overlook across rice paddies and water bodies that resemble a lunar landscape. These caves involve light walking, and while generally accessible, Moon Cave may require climbing stairs or steep paths. Visit during or just after the dry season for easier access and better conditions. Swimming is only safe when the lake is full, and golden hour offers the best light for photos.

Finally, the Water Cave and nearby hidden caves are less frequented but perfect for explorers seeking off-the-map experiences. Locals often swim in the Water Cave, especially during the rainy season when it fills up. The surrounding viewpoints offer incredible panoramic views of rice fields and limestone ridges. Accessing these hidden caves may require navigating steep, slippery, or unmarked trails, so a flashlight, swimwear, and good footwear are essential. The dry season is safer for exploring, but the rainy season reveals the caves at their fullest and most dramatic.

Explore Kampong Trach’s Caves, Trails, and Scenic Views: All in One Day

Looking for a true off-the-beaten-path adventure from Kampot or Kep? This one-day itinerary through Kampong Trach takes you to hidden caves, sacred shrines, scenic mountains, and refreshing swimming spots, all easily reachable with a motorbike.

🚌 Step 1: Getting There from Phnom Penh:

Before your adventure begins, book a bus from Phnom Penh to Kampot with Kimseng Express, a top choice for safety, comfort, and affordability. Once in Kampot, rent a motorbike, scooter, or private 4×4 to start your journey to Kampong Trach.

🚀 08:00 AM : Depart from Kampot or Kep: Start your trip early to make the most of the cool morning hours. The drive to Kampong Trach takes about 1 hour along National Road 33. Expect scenic views and occasional rural stops along the way.

🪨 09:00 AM : Phnom Kampong Trach Cave: Begin your day at the district’s most iconic site. Explore dramatic limestone formations, ancient Buddhist shrines, and natural skylights inside this vast cave system. Easy-to-moderate walking paths make it accessible to most visitors.

🛕 10:30 AM : Circle Cave: Just a short ride away, Circle Cave offers a blend of nature and spirituality. Enter through a peaceful pagoda and make your way into a cavern with a hidden “secret tunnel” exit perfect for the adventurous at heart.

🧗 12:00 PM : Windy Mountain + Rockman Viewpoint: Take a detour off the main road and hike up Windy Mountain. You’ll be rewarded with sweeping countryside views and a visit to the legendary “Rockman”, a local who collects and trades beautiful stones and fossils.

🍽️ 01:00 PM : Lunch in Kampong Trach Town: Stop at a local eatery for a relaxing lunch. Try classic Khmer dishes like grilled pork with rice or stir-fried noodles with vegetables. Most places are simple but welcoming.

Spend your afternoon exploring these peaceful, lesser-known caves. Sun Cave features a small sacred lake (great for swimming in the wet season), while Moon Cave offers elevated views of the surrounding paddies and hills. It’s a perfect place to unwind and take in nature.

🌾 04:00 PM : Optional Stop: Water Cave & Hidden Trails: If you still have time and energy, take a detour to the Water Cave, a local swimming spot in the rainy season, or explore hidden paths leading to quiet viewpoints and untouched natural scenery.

🏁 05:30 PM : Return to Kampot or Kep: Head back before sunset, as rural roads may lack lighting. You should arrive around 6:30 PM, full of stories, scenic photos, and unforgettable memories.

🛠 Tips & What to Bring Explore Kampong Trach’s Caves:

Respectful Visiting Tips: When visiting sacred or culturally significant sites, it’s important to show respect for local traditions. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Remove your shoes before stepping near any statue or shrine.
• Dress modestly, shoulders and knees should be covered.
• Avoid touching religious objects or statues.
• Always ask before taking photos, especially if monks or locals are praying nearby.

Consider making a small donation if you photograph shrines or receive guidance from locals.

Tips for Your Kampong Trach Cave Visit: Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your trip:

What to Bring:

• Comfortable walking shoes or sandals with good grip.
• Drinking water and light snacks.
• A camera or phone with a flashlight (some caves can be dark).
• Sunscreen and insect repellent.
• Modest clothing suitable for temple areas (shoulders and knees covered).

Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your trip: Hire a local guide, they can share the cave’s history, local legends, and help you explore safely.

Best Time to Visit Kampong Trach Cave:

• Dry Season (November - April): Easier access, less mud, and comfortable walking conditions.
• Wet Season (May - October): The landscape is greener and the pools are full, but the paths can be slippery, so wear sturdy shoes.

Recommended Duration: Plan for at least half a day for the round trip from Kampot and a relaxed exploration of the caves and nearby attractions.

Kampong Trach Cave Photography Tips:

Kampong Trach Cave is incredibly photogenic, especially when the light hits just right. If you’re planning to take photos, here are a few tips to help you capture its unique beauty:

• Morning light: The best time to visit is in the morning, when soft sunlight filters through openings in the cave roof, creating magical light rays.
• Contrast: Play with the balance between bright sunlight and the shadowy cave interior for dramatic, high-contrast shots.
• Reflections: The natural pools inside the cave can create beautiful mirror-like reflections, perfect for creative compositions.
• Macro details: Get close to capture textures such as the rugged limestone walls, patches of moss, and ancient carvings.

Final Thoughts:

Why Kampong Trach Cave Should be on your list on the trip.Kampong Trach Cave may not be Cambodia’s most famous attraction, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. It’s raw, authentic, and largely untouched by mass tourism. Here, you won’t find crowds or long lines, just breathtaking natural formations, ancient shrines, and friendly locals happy to share their stories. For travelers staying in Kampot or Kep who are seeking something unique, spiritual, and adventurous, this cave system offers a truly memorable experience. Every step through its passageways, every echo, and every beam of light seems to tell a story waiting to be discovered. In a country full of wonders, Kampong Trach Cave stands out for its quiet majesty and sense of reverence, making it a must-visit for those looking to connect with Cambodia’s natural and cultural beauty.