Environment minister Eang Sophalleth went hiking at the Phnom Khnong Phsar natural tourism site on Sunday, February 23. Environment ministry
Minister of Environment Eang Sophalleth paid a visit to Khnong Phsar Mountain, part of the Cardamom Mountain National Park, located in Ta Sal commune, Oral district, Kampong Speu province, on Sunday, February 23. His visit aimed to further draw attention to “green tour” activities that benefit the local community. More than 100 guests have already visited the area since the beginning of the year.
The mountain, which sits at the intersection of Koh Kong, Kampong Speu and Pursat provinces, attracts tourists with a sense of adventure, whether domestic or International.
An environment ministry press release explained that the minister's visit aimed to “enhance the area's attractiveness, connect with the community and boost the local economy”.
During his visit, Sophalleth hiked more than three kilometres up the mountain, passing through breathtaking natural landscapes, including lush green fields, Phnom Khnong Krapeu, Phnom Khnong Srov and finally Phnom Khnong Phsar itself.
At this time of year, the landscape resembles a vast carpet of gold spread over the mountain, creating a mesmerising view.
The minister noted that, in alignment with the first phase of the seventh-mandate government's Pentagonal Strategy, the environment ministry is actively developing eco-tourism plans. The goal is to link natural and heritage sites with tourism activities to provide benefits to the local communities.
Kampong Speu Provincial Department of Environment director Chanthet Thannarak said 45 tourists visited the mountain in January, 5 of them from overseas.
In February, this number swelled to 92, including 20 foreigners.
The provincial administration has designated the mountain a “natural paradise”, characterised by dense forests, towering mountains and picturesque grasslands. In addition, the area is home to rare wildlife.
Early in the morning, visitors are encouraged to hike to the mountain’s summit to witness the breathtaking sunrise, accompanied by cool temperatures and misty clouds.
In the evening, tourists can also enjoy sunset views from the mountaintop.
The area's lush forests and abundant birdlife offer a sense of peace and immersion in nature, making the trek up the mountain a rewarding experience.
The fresh mountain breezes and panoramic views are a rare treat for guests and confirm the area’s designation as a natural paradise.
However, reaching the mountain is no easy task. Tourists must endure a challenging 5-7 hour hike on foot, though community ox carts are available for part of the journey.
To get to the mountain, visitors travel along National Road 4 in Kampong Speu town before continuing toward the mountain, passing through the local environmental office.
According to environment ministry spokesperson Khvay Atitya, as of the end of last year, a total of 193 community-managed protected areas have been established, covering 332,108 hectares across 362 villages, 115 communes, and 15 provinces. These communities consist of 73,149 households.
