Situated in the remote northeast corner of Cambodia, Ratanakiri province is a land of pristine natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and an abundance of adventure. From the majestic Virachey National Park, to the crystal clear Tonle San River, Ratanakiri is an off-the-beaten-path destination that is perfect for travelers looking for an authentic Cambodian experience. Here are the top 20 places to see in Ratanakiri, Cambodia.
1. Virachey National Park
Virachey National Park is the largest protected area in Cambodia, covering over 3,325 square kilometers of dense rainforest. This park is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including endangered species such as the Asian elephant, Indochinese tiger, and clouded leopard. It is also a popular destination for trekking and bird-watching.
2. Ban Lung
Ban Lung is the capital of Ratanakiri province and a great base from which to explore the area. This bustling town is home to a variety of markets, restaurants, and hotels. It is also the gateway to the famous Yeak Laom volcanic lake.
3. Yeak Laom Volcanic Lake
Yeak Laom is a stunning volcanic lake located in the heart of Ban Lung. This lake is sacred to the local Tampuan people and is surrounded by lush jungle and a picturesque boardwalk.
4. Phnom Veal Thom
Phnom Veal Thom is a stunning mountain range located near Ban Lung. This area is known for its spectacular views and is a popular destination for trekking and mountain biking.
5. Lumphat Wildlife Sanctuary
Lumphat Wildlife Sanctuary is a stunning protected area located near the Vietnam border. This sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and gibbons. It is also a great place for bird-watching.
6. Chaa Ong Waterfall
Chaa Ong Waterfall is a stunning waterfall located near Ban Lung. This waterfall is surrounded by lush jungle and is a popular destination for swimming and picnicking.
7. Wat Ek Phnom
Wat Ek Phnom is an impressive 11th century temple located near Ban Lung. This temple is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Ratanakiri province.
8. Wat Phnom Yat
Wat Phnom Yat is a stunning temple located near Ban Lung. This temple is known for its beautiful architecture and is a popular destination for tourists.
9. Tonle San River
The Tonle San River is a stunning river located in Ratanakiri province. This river is known for its crystal clear water and is a popular destination for swimming and fishing.
10. Ta Veng
Ta Veng is a small village located near Ban Lung. This village is known for its traditional wooden houses and is a great place to learn about the culture of Ratanakiri province.
11. Phnom Proek
Phnom Proek is a stunning mountain range located near Ban Lung. This area is known for its spectacular views and is a popular destination for trekking and mountain biking.
12. Sen Monorom
Sen Monorom is the capital of Mondulkiri province and a great base from which to explore the area. This town is home to a variety of markets, restaurants, and hotels.
13. Mondulkiri Waterfall
The Mondulkiri Waterfall is a stunning waterfall located near Sen Monorom. This waterfall is surrounded by lush jungle and is a popular destination for swimming and picnicking.
14. Phnom Nam Lyr
Phnom Nam Lyr is a stunning mountain range located near Sen Monorom. This area is known for its spectacular views and is a popular destination for trekking and mountain biking.
15. Phnom Sombok
Phnom Sombok is an impressive 11th century temple located near Sen Monorom. This temple is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Ratanakiri province.
16. Phnom Tamao
Phnom Tamao is a stunning mountain range located near Sen Monorom. This area is known for its spectacular views and is a popular destination for trekking and mountain biking.
17. Phnom Aural
Phnom Aural is a stunning mountain range located near Sen Monorom. This area is known for its spectacular views and is a popular destination for trekking and mountain biking.
18. Phnom Chhngok
Phnom Chhngok is a stunning mountain range located near Sen Monorom. This area is known for its spectacular views and is a popular destination for trekking and mountain biking.
19. Wat Kompong Thom
Wat Kompong Thom is an impressive 11th century temple located near Sen Monorom. This temple is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Ratanakiri province.
20. Kaoh Poun
Kaoh Poun is a small village located near Sen Monorom. This village is known for its traditional wooden houses and is a great place to learn about the culture of Ratanakiri province.
Ratanakiri is an incredible destination for travelers looking to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations in Cambodia. From the majestic Virachey National Park, to the crystal clear Tonle San River, Ratanakiri is a land of pristine natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and an abundance of adventure. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting adventure, Ratanakiri has something for everyone.