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Bokor Hill Station

4.3
·3k reviews·Phumi Pôpôk Vil, Cambodia

An eerie abandoned French colonial resort atop a misty mountain, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Cambodia's past.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Old Casino

Bokor Hill Station

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An eerie abandoned French colonial resort atop a misty mountain, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Cambodia's past.

4.3
(3k reviews)

"The views here are stunning! They couldn’t be any better."

Vertical photo
TIP

🧥 Pack Warm Layers

The weather is significantly cooler and can be windy. Bring a jacket and rain gear!

🚗 Scenic Drive Up

The road to Bokor Hill Station is well-maintained and offers stunning views. Great for a motorbike trip!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Abandoned Bokor Hill Station

Abandoned Bokor Hill Station

Summit of Bokor Mountain

Eerie colonial-era ruins of a French resort, shrouded in mist, offering a haunting glimpse into the past.

Old Catholic Church

Old Catholic Church

Bokor Hill Station

The second-oldest standing Roman Catholic church in Cambodia, its weathered facade adds to the site's mystique.

Breathtaking Panoramic Views

Breathtaking Panoramic Views

Various viewpoints

Sweeping vistas of the coastline and surrounding hills, often enhanced by dramatic cloud and fog formations.

Popokvil Waterfall

Popokvil Waterfall

National Park

A beautiful waterfall offering a refreshing natural escape amidst the historical sites.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Mist and Mystery

Bokor Hill Station offers a unique blend of natural beauty and eerie colonial ruins. Expect cool, misty weather, even in warmer months. The drive up is scenic, but be prepared for winding roads. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the tranquil atmosphere.

Prepare for the Elements

The weather at Bokor Hill Station can change rapidly, with fog and strong winds being common. Pack layers, including a jacket and rain gear, even if the weather is warm at the base. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the various sites.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Misty conditions enhance ambiance
Crowd
Medium
When
Cooler months (Nov-Feb)
Why
Pleasant temperatures, less humidity
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

ជិះម៉ូតូឡេីងភ្នំបូកគោ​🛵 #fypage #traveler #ភ្នំបូកគោ #kompot #cambodia #bokor #កំពត #mutitaview #khmer #khmertiktok #placetovisit #thingstodo #lomhor #creatorsearchinsights
@mutitaview
21.7K likes • 325.6K views

🧥 Pack Warm Layers

The weather is significantly cooler and can be windy. Bring a jacket and rain gear! Reddit

🚗 Scenic Drive Up

The road to Bokor Hill Station is well-maintained and offers stunning views. Great for a motorbike trip! InstagramReddit

ĐÈO BOKOR - KAMPOT - CAMBODIA trên ngọn núi có tên VIETNAM là NÚI TÀ LƠN quá đã nha AE, cảnh ở cuối clip còn gì chê 🤣🤣🤣 #haotranvlog #raiderfi #tour #bokormountain #cambodia #dcgr
@hao.tran7028
18.1K likes • 255.9K views
📍Bokor Hill Station, Kampot🇰🇭 Mit dem Roller oder Auto gut erreichbar braucht ihr ungefähr eine Stunde von Kampot zu Bokor Hill Station. Die Straße dort hin ist sehr gut und macht sogar Spaß zu fahren 🛵 Der Ort an sich ist wie gesagt..weird. Irgendwie scheint nicht ganz klar, was da jetzt passiert. Zwar wird schon irgendwie gebaut, aber auch nicht so richtig und bei vielen Orten weiß man gar nic...
nc.traveljourney
0 likes • 2.9K views

🐒 Watch for Monkeys

Monkeys are common on the mountain roads and at the sites. Keep a safe distance and don't feed them. Reddit

📸 Capture the Mist

The atmospheric fog and mist create unique photographic opportunities. Instagram

Bokor Mountain, located in Kampot Province, is a must-visit destination featuring lush forests, cool weather, and a mix of history and nature. Highlights include the abandoned Bokor Hill Station, an eerie remnant of French colonial times, the Popokvil Waterfall, and breathtaking views of the coastline. It’s a favorite for hiking, exploring, and soaking in the serene atmosphere. #cambodia🇰🇭 #explo...
bun_neam
163 likes • 3.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🧥 Pack Warm Layers

The weather is significantly cooler and can be windy. Bring a jacket and rain gear! Reddit

🚗 Scenic Drive Up

The road to Bokor Hill Station is well-maintained and offers stunning views. Great for a motorbike trip! InstagramReddit

🐒 Watch for Monkeys

Monkeys are common on the mountain roads and at the sites. Keep a safe distance and don't feed them. Reddit

📸 Capture the Mist

The atmospheric fog and mist create unique photographic opportunities. Instagram

⏳ Weekday Visits Recommended

Weekdays offer a more tranquil experience with fewer visitors. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning, tranquil views and the unique, misty atmosphere of Bokor Hill Station. The scenic drive up is also a highlight. However, some feel the recent redevelopment has diminished the charm of the once-derelict historical sites.

"The views here are stunning! They couldn’t be any better. As a photographer, I found it incredibly rewarding to capture the breathtaking scenery of the hills. I would definitely come back to enjoy the tranquil views. Since I visited on a weekday, it was quiet and peaceful, with only the sounds of nature. With monkeys everywhere too!"

Oscar Riley

"Really indifferent about this. 8 years ago it was a derelict building which you could walk into which had its own charm. It was a fortress for the Khmer Rouge and was abandoned after Vietnam drove them off.

Now it’s been sorta redeveloped but it doesn’t have that same charm."

Sven Abend

"Bokor Mountain is very beautiful. We saw the scene of the clouds and fog. Across the way is Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam. I came with my parents and was very impressed. It is very quiet here. There are many monkeys on the mountain. Our driver and guide were very good."

BUYI ZHANG

What People Like

Breathtaking panoramic views
Cool, misty atmosphere
Scenic mountain drive

What People Dislike

Redevelopment impact
Crowds on weekends

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bokor Hill Station is about an hour's drive from Kampot. You can rent a motorbike or hire a car with a driver. The road is well-maintained and offers beautiful scenery along the way. Instagram+2

Yes, the road is generally safe and well-paved, making it suitable for cars and motorbikes. Some sections are winding, so drive cautiously. Instagram

Taxis are available from Kampot, but it might be more cost-effective to arrange a private car or join a tour. Negotiate the price beforehand. TikTok

Yes, Bokor Hill Station is located within the Preah Monivong National Park, offering a protected natural environment. Instagram

The drive from Kampot to the summit of Bokor Mountain typically takes around 1 hour, depending on traffic and your mode of transport. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While the national park may have a small fee, access to the main Bokor Hill Station sites is generally free. However, some attractions within the park might have separate charges. TikTok

Bokor Hill Station is generally accessible throughout the day, but it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to enjoy the views. TikTok

No advance booking is typically required for Bokor Hill Station. You can usually pay for transport or any specific tours upon arrival. TikTok

Yes, many tour operators in Kampot offer day trips to Bokor Hill Station, which can be a convenient way to explore the area. TikTok

Many visitors recommend exploring the abandoned buildings, enjoying the panoramic views, and experiencing the unique misty atmosphere. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

The abandoned Bokor Hill Station buildings, the Old Catholic Church, and various viewpoints offering sweeping vistas are prime photography locations. The misty conditions add a dramatic flair. InstagramReddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes and ruins. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions, especially if visiting during foggy periods. TikTok

Yes, monkeys are often seen around the station. Remember to maintain a safe distance and use a zoom lens to capture them without disturbing their natural behavior. Reddit

Mornings and late afternoons can offer beautiful light, but the misty, atmospheric conditions at any time of day can create stunning, moody shots. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed in most public areas. However, always be respectful of any private property or restricted zones. TikTok

🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience

Explore the abandoned French colonial buildings, visit the Old Catholic Church, enjoy panoramic views, and experience the cool, misty climate. You might also see monkeys and visit Popokvil Waterfall. Instagram+1

While there are no confirmed reports of hauntings, the abandoned buildings and misty atmosphere lend an eerie and mysterious feel to the place, often sparking such speculation. TikTokInstagram

The weather is significantly cooler than the surrounding lowlands, often misty, foggy, and windy. It's advisable to bring a jacket. InstagramReddit

There are some facilities like restaurants and shops, especially around the newer developments, but the historical sites themselves are largely undeveloped. Instagram

Yes, families can enjoy the scenic drive, the unique atmosphere of the ruins, and the chance to see monkeys. Ensure children are supervised, especially near the abandoned structures. Reddit

🍽️ 🍴 Food & Dining

Yes, there are restaurants and cafes available, particularly near the newer hotel and casino complex, offering local and some international dishes. Instagram

You can find a range of Cambodian dishes, as well as some Western options. It's a good place to try local specialties after exploring the sites. Instagram

While there are dining options, bringing some snacks and water is always a good idea, especially if you plan to explore further into the national park. TikTok

Most Cambodian restaurants will offer vegetarian dishes, such as vegetable stir-fries and rice or noodle dishes. It's best to ask the staff. Instagram

Picnicking is possible in designated areas, but be mindful of the environment and dispose of your trash properly. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bokor Hill Station offers a unique outing for families. The scenic drive up the mountain is an adventure in itself, and the chance to spot monkeys is always a hit with children. The abandoned buildings, while potentially eerie, can spark imagination and storytelling. Reddit

It's advisable to pack snacks and drinks, as dining options might be limited or crowded. Ensure children are supervised closely, especially around the old structures, and dress them in layers to accommodate the cooler mountain weather. The Popokvil Waterfall provides a natural spot for a break. Instagram

📸 Photographers' Paradise

For photographers, Bokor Hill Station is a dream destination. The hauntingly beautiful abandoned colonial architecture combined with the ever-present mist and fog creates dramatic and atmospheric shots. The panoramic views from the summit are also spectacular, especially during sunrise or sunset. InstagramReddit

Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vast landscapes and the scale of the ruins. A tripod can be invaluable for low-light photography in the fog. Be prepared for changing weather, and don't be afraid to experiment with different angles and compositions to capture the unique mood of this location. TikTok

🚗 Adventure Seekers & Motorcyclists

The winding, well-maintained road to Bokor Hill Station is a major draw for motorcyclists and adventure seekers. Renting a motorbike in Kampot and making the ascent is a popular and exhilarating way to experience the journey. The cool mountain air and stunning vistas make for an unforgettable ride. Instagram+1

While the drive is a highlight, remember to drive safely, especially on the curves and if the weather turns foggy. The combination of historical exploration and the thrill of the ride makes Bokor Hill Station a perfect day trip for those seeking a bit of adventure. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Haunting History of Bokor Hill Station

Originally conceived as a French colonial resort in the 1920s, Bokor Hill Station was built to escape the sweltering heat of the Cambodian lowlands. It featured a casino, a church, hotels, and administrative buildings, creating a luxurious retreat for the French elite. The site was strategically important and saw various uses throughout its history, including as a fortress during the Khmer Rouge era. Instagram+1

After the French left Cambodia, the resort fell into disrepair, becoming an iconic symbol of a bygone era. The abandoned buildings, shrouded in mist, evoke a sense of mystery and melancholy. Many visitors are drawn to the eerie atmosphere and the stories whispered about its past. Instagram+1

In recent years, there has been significant redevelopment, including a new hotel and casino complex. While this has brought modern amenities, some visitors feel it detracts from the original charm and historical authenticity of the derelict buildings. InstagramReddit

Navigating the Misty Mountain Roads

The journey to Bokor Hill Station is an adventure in itself. The road winding up Bokor Mountain is well-maintained and offers spectacular views as you ascend. Many travelers enjoy the drive, especially on motorbikes, finding it a scenic and enjoyable part of the experience. Instagram+1

Be prepared for changing weather conditions. The higher you climb, the cooler and mistier it becomes. Fog can roll in quickly, creating a dramatic and atmospheric landscape, but it can also reduce visibility. It's crucial to drive cautiously and be aware of your surroundings. InstagramReddit

Packing essentials like a jacket and rain gear is highly recommended, even on a sunny day. The temperature drop can be significant, and the wind can be strong. This preparation ensures a more comfortable and enjoyable exploration of the hilltop attractions. Reddit

Wildlife Encounters: Monkeys and More

Bokor Hill Station is not just about historical ruins; it's also a habitat for various wildlife. Monkeys are frequently spotted along the roads and around the main attractions. They are often curious and can be quite bold, so it's important to maintain a safe distance and avoid feeding them to prevent habituation and potential aggression. Reddit

Beyond the primates, the Preah Monivong National Park surrounding Bokor is rich in biodiversity. While less commonly seen by casual visitors, the park is home to diverse flora and fauna. The Popokvil Waterfall offers a chance to experience the natural beauty and perhaps spot some local birdlife. Instagram

Responsible tourism is key when encountering wildlife. Respecting their space and not interfering with their natural behaviors ensures that these animals can continue to thrive in their environment. Reddit

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