Environment minister Eang Sophalleth led a working group to assess the potential for development in the Jayavarman-Norodom Phnom Kulen National Park on February 17. MoE
The Ministry of Environment is formulating a strategic plan to develop ecotourism in Jayavarman-Norodom Phnom Kulen National Park, focused on enhancing local livelihoods, conserving biodiversity and preserving traditional culture for future generations of Cambodians.
Environment minister Eang Sophalleth led a working group to assess the potential for development in the park, as reported on the ministry’s social media page on February 17.
The group’s exploration included several key sites: the Kesor Kol Sok An Phnom Kulen Research and Conservation Centre, Peung Takho or Peung Chruonh, the O’Tachak and Wat Chas campgrounds and various natural attractions such as waterfalls, caves and natural pots containing ancient statues.
The ministry noted that an underwater sculpture, a work by the Khmer ancestors, represents important religious beliefs and garners both national and international interest.
Prime Minister Hun Manet identified the park as a key nature-based tourism destination at the 19th Government-Private Sector Forum held last November.
Following the government’s Pentagonal Strategy-Phase 1 and the Circular Strategy on Environment for 2023-2028, the ministry initiated a basic information study programme to strategise the development of ecotourism in the area.
“[The park] is an important … site, preserving numerous historical structures, such as ancient temples and sites, natural resources and rich biodiversity. The area is deeply embedded in the traditional beliefs of the Khmer people since ancient times,” stated the ministry.
Chhay Sivlin, president of the Cambodia Association of Travel Agents (CATA), noted that the park is renowned for its historical significance, cultural heritage and as a vital water source for Siem Reap province.
She emphasised the importance of collaboration and clear management of the park, particularly in terms of organisation and maintenance, to support tourism, ecology and culture.
“Phnom Kulen is a revered place of worship, regarded by the Cambodian people as the most sacred mountain in Cambodia and the cradle of Cambodian civilisation,” Sivlin explained.
“It boasts many ancient temples and shrines from the 8th and 9th centuries, a waterfall, Preah Ang Thom pagoda, a large Buddha statue and the valley of a thousand Lingas. Attractions like Kbal Spean draw thousands of visitors daily, especially on New Year’s Day,” she added.
According to the ministry, with the support of the Cambodia Sustainable Landscape and Ecotourism Project (CSLEP), it is aiding in the planning and management of protected areas. This includes law enforcement, construction of offices and development of infrastructure and tourism amenities.
The developments consist of building asphalt roads, multi-purpose buildings spanning 14km (including canteens and meeting halls), campgrounds, gates, parking lots, food stalls and initiatives to strengthen the supply chain of Kulen pig, a local sustainable delicacy, in five protected communities.
They are also improving sanitation and the provision of clean water in the Prey Thom Anlong Thom ecotourism community, as per the ministry.
