“A rare and stunning two-tiered mountain waterfall in Southeast Asia, set amidst the breathtaking scenery of Preah Monivong National Park.”
Popokvil Waterfall is one of the most prominent natural attractions on Phnom Bokor (Bokor Mountain) in Cambodia. It is situated within Preah Monivong National Park (Bokor National Park). Its Khmer name translates to 'circling clouds,' referencing the frequent fog that blankets the area. The waterfall features two tiers cascading over granite rocks, with a total height_ of approximately 15 meters. It is the perfect retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in the perpetually lush greenery.
The unique charm of Popokvil lies in the variance of its water volume throughout the year. During the rainy season, the water flows forcefully and powerfully, while in the dry season, the water level recedes, revealing large rocks and clear pools suitable for wading. The area surrounding the waterfall is rich with endemic highland flora of the hill evergreen forest and is part of a crucial conserved ecosystem, making this waterfall not just a tourist spot but a vital center of biodiversity.
The visitor experience at Popokvil Waterfall is exceptional. Visitors can take a short nature walk to access both tiers of the waterfall and enjoy the cool, fresh air throughout the day. The surrounding atmosphere is peaceful and relaxing, perfect for picnicking and leisure by the stream. Especially on clear days, the sunlight hitting the water creates a beautiful spectacle.
How to Get There
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Private Car/Rented Van: The most convenient way is to hire a car or van with a driver from Kampot or Sihanoukville and drive up the new, well-paved road to Bokor Hill.
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Motorbike: You can rent a scooter from Kampot town to drive up yourself, but extra caution is required as the route is quite steep and the drive takes several hours.
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Organized Tours: Day trip tours are available from Kampot, which include a visit to Popokvil Waterfall and other key sites on Bokor Mountain
Travel Tips
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The best time to visit is during September to November (after the heaviest rains) to see the waterfall with a full and impressive water volume for the best pictures.
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Wear comfortable and non-slip footwear, as the footpaths to the waterfall can be wet and mossy. Be sure to bring a raincoat or umbrella if traveling during the rainy season.
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Prepare a wide-angle lens or a tripod specifically for waterfall photography to capture smooth, flowing water effects.
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You should bring your own food and drinks, as vendors and services are limited around the waterfall area.
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The journey up Bokor Mountain involves a checkpoint where a national park entry pass must be shown. You should allow 1-2 hours for the drive to the top.
Admission Fee:
- No admission is charged per person, but a fee will be charged for vehicles used to travel up Mount Bukor instead.
Opening Hours:
- Open daily, usually from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Operating hours may change according to season and weather conditions. Please check with local authorities before your trip.