Popokvil Mountain
Popokvil Mountain is located in the renowned Bokor National Park. It is most famous for the magnificent two-tier waterfall - the Popokvil Waterfall, which makes it a favourite getaway for both local and international visitors every year.
Surrounded by serene lush green rainforests, Popokvil Waterfall is stunningly beautiful and comes alive during the rainy season. Popokvil, meaning “swirling clouds,” well describes the beauty of the lingering mists around the waterfall. You can enjoy a relaxing picnic by the falls, or go for a swim in the pool. A meditation area is also available for those who like to enjoy an intimate moment of tranquility with nature.
Location
Visitors must first get to Bokor National Park to be able to access to the waterfall. The national park is about 11 kilometres west of Kampot town, and upon reaching the Bokor Hill Station, you have to trek in the north-east direction for about 6 kilometres before arriving at the waterfall. For visitors setting off from Sihanoukville International Airport, the park is about 105 kilometres east of the airport.
Opening Days and Hours
Popokvil Mountain is part of Bokor National Park. It is open at all times but the road leading to it can sometimes be closed due to weather conditions.
Entry Fee and Bookings
Bokor National Park charges USD 0.50 per motorcycle or scooter, and USD 1 per car at the foot of the park. Passengers do not have to pay an entrance fee. A guide or trekking arrangements can be made at Thansur Bokor Highland Resort’s Recreation Counter, with starting prices at USD 7.
How to Get There
To get to Bokor National Park, you can use motorcycles, scooters, cars, taxis or minivans from Kampot town. It takes about 50 minutes to reach Bokor Hill Station. Renting bikes from Kampot town is possible and comes with a cost of USD 5 to 20 depending on the size of the bikes. You can then trek into the jungle for about 1.5 hours until you reach the destination. Estimated travel time from Sihanoukville International Airport to the national park is 2 hours.
Suggested For
Popokvil Mountain is a suitable place to visit by families with children not younger than 15 years old, groups of friends, young couples, backpackers, solo travelers and those who like to have a refreshing day chilling out at the waterfall and a little swim inside the pool.
Time to Spend
Visitors usually spend about half a day at the waterfall but it will take a full day to visit Bokor National Park’s other attractions.
Popularity and Best Time to Go
If you want to enjoy the spectacular view of water gushing down with full force at Popokvil Waterfall, the best time to visit is during the wet season from May to October.
Activities
There are many things to do at the park like having a picnic, trekking, hiking, meditating, and swimming
Food
Food stalls selling light snacks and cold drinks are set up behind the Bokor Palace Hotel throughout the day. Proper meals are served in the restaurants inside Thansur Bokor Highland Resort. Visitors can find a good variety of food choices there.
Safety and Fraud
Blessed with pristine rainforests, the mountain is also a habitat for many wild animals such as tigers, leopards, and elephants. You are advised to not venture off the existing paths. Landmines are also a potential danger in this area although mine removal action has been performed. You should also be mindful of the slippery rocks and steps at the waterfall.
Nearby Attractions
- Wat Sampov Phram: The pagoda is about 3 kilometres from the park and is about a 30-minute walk.
- Lok Yeay Mao Monument: The monument is about 7 kilometres from the national park and will take about a 10-minute drive to get there.
- Bokor Hill Station: About 6 kilometres from the waterfall and will take about a 1.5-hour trek.
Stay
A 4-star resort hotel, Thansur Bokor Highland Resort, is located inside the national park and close to the waterfall. Many guesthouses and hotels can also be found in Kampot that offers budget dorms or rooms, and also mid-range accommodations.
Good to Know
Mosquito repellent spray will come in handy during treks to the the rainforest. Bring a change of clothes and a bath towel if you are planning to take a dip in the beautiful pool under the waterfall.
