Cập nhật: 01-01-1970 12:00:00 | Blogs about Cambodia | Lượt xem: 1063
For adventurists at heart, Mondulkiri is a mesmerizing land that promises unforgettable journeys. This easternmost Cambodian province boasts fascinating natural scenery, diverse wildlife, and unique indigenous culture that leave a powerful imprint in every visitor’s heart. If you are somehow tired of tourist-trodden paths and wish to uncover a wilder, more authentic side of Cambodia, Mondulkiri is definitely the place for you.
Bordering Vietnam to the east and south, Mondulkiri is the largest yet most sparsely populated province in Cambodia. This land is most known for its pristine scenery, majestic waterfalls, vast elephant sanctuaries, and vibrant indigenous culture. It is mainly inhabited by the Bunong, an ethnic minority that has settled here for centuries.
Mondulkiri Province Cambodia was founded by King Norodom Sihanouk in 1620. Two years later, the city of Sen Monorom was selected as its capital. The name “Mondulkiri” literally means the meeting of the hills, implying the rugged landscape here. The province's symbol is the kouprey, which is also the national mammal of the country.
Owing to its high altitude, the average temperatures in Mondulkiri are relatively lower compared to other regions in Cambodia at only 15°C - 25°C. However, it still experiences two distinct seasons like the rest of the nation: the dry one (November to April) and the rainy one (May to October). Needless to say, the dry season is a better time for most Cambodia adventure tours as it’s more suitable for outdoor activities, and tours in Mondulkiri are no exception. Especially, the coolest months (November to February) will give you a pleasant escape from the heat of the lowlands.
The most favored method to reach Mondulkiri Cambodia is by bus, which runs daily from Phnom Penh to Sen Monoron and provides an interesting glance at Cambodia’s countryside. This scenic ride costs around $10 - 15 per person and lasts about 5 - 7 hours. If you’re traveling from other hubs like Siem Reap, chances are you will have to move to Phnom Penh first due to the lack of direct buses.
Another option worth mentioning is hiring a private car, which allows you to follow your route at your own pace, but this flexibility comes with higher prices. In addition, thrill-seekers can rent a motorbike and ride there by themselves, but it’s not recommended as the roads to Mondulkiri are quite challenging, especially under wet or misty weather conditions.
Since this is a remote and rugged land, there are not many transportation options you can opt for to get around in Mondulkiri. Local tuk-tuks are the most common choice as they are pretty convenient and affordable. Hiring a motorbike is also possible, but again, not recommended since most roads here are quite rough and hard to conquer.
Sen Monorom Cambodia offers a range of accommodations and is a great base for your excursion in Mondulkiri province. If you wish to learn more about the local culture, consider spending the night in a traditional Bunong homestay, which costs only $5 - 15 per night.
Among higher-ranked options, the most popular ones are Tree Lodge and Nature Lodge Mondulkiri, both feature rustic charm and notable proximity to nature. Prices for a night in these eco-lodges are around $15 - 30, depending on your choice. For travelers seeking a luxurious stay, Mayura Hill Resort provides spacious bungalows with modern amenities at about $60 - 100.
Mondulkiri has a reputation for its numerous elephant sanctuaries, which aim to protect and care for elephants in the area. You can visit, or even volunteer at such places, but make sure to choose wisely because not all of them are managed in the same way. Ethical organizations generally don’t allow riding or any kind of forced activities like touching, feeding, and bathing, because they might create undue stress on the elephants. Some remarkable options here are the Elephant Valley Project Mondulkiri and the Elephant Community Project, but you can select another that better fits your itinerary.
Located about 45km from Sen Monorom, Bou Sra Waterfall is one of the largest cascades in the country and will make a nice addition to your Cambodia travel package. The waterfall is placed amidst lush green jungle and is divided into three stages, with the second stage being the highest at 15 - 25 m depending on the season. This spot offers a precious opportunity for swimming, zip-lining, picnicking, or simply admiring the stunning natural beauty of Cambodia.
Another exciting thing you can do in Mondulkiri is trekking through its jungle and discovering the hidden waterfalls here. There are also chances of spotting rare creatures if you’re lucky enough. You can embark on an excursion of your own, but it’s best to join a guided trek for an enhanced experience and a deeper insight into the region’s flora and fauna. Last but not least, don’t forget to apply insect repellent and put on long-sleeved shirts and trousers before your trek.
A trip to local Bunong villages will help you gain a closer look at their traditional way of life. Besides learning more about their crafts, agriculture, customs, and spiritual beliefs, this is a great chance to try their hearty dishes as well. A typical Bunong meal mainly consists of sticky rice, grilled meat, wild foraged vegetables from the surrounding forests, soup, and fruits. They are often enjoyed communally, with family members gathering to share food and stories.
Mondulkiri is one of the few prime coffee-growing lands in Cambodia. The high-quality coffee here is loved for its unique taste, which is influenced by the region’s climate and soil. Many local plantations in Mundulkiri allow you to take a tour and have a taste right on the spot. Such tours not only offer some of the country’s finest coffee but also help with learning about coffee growing and the cultivation process. If you are a coffee lover, this experience is absolutely a must-try.
Culture - History - 11 days 10 nights
Active & Adventure - 12 days 11 nights
Active & Adventure - 5 days 4 nights
