Just 150 kilometers from Phnom Penh, Kampot offers a weekend getaway with French architecture, iconic landmarks, and a taste of Cambodian culture.
Kampot is a province in southern Cambodia, located about 150 kilometers from Phnom Penh City and around 60 kilometers from Xa Xia Border Gate in Vietnam’s Kien Giang Province.
Known for its old French architecture, Kep Beach, mountains, and Bokor Old Town, Kampot moves at a slower pace.
In addition to its historic sites, Kampot is famous as Cambodia’s “durian land”, with a durian statue placed in the city center.
Kampot features old French buildings. In the 19th century, it was chosen by the French colonists as an administrative center along the border.
The Durian Roundabout, the seahorse fountain, the giant clock (pictured), and Entanou Bridge are iconic structures located close together, making it convenient for tourists to visit.
The giant clock is designed in a traditional style with a cylindrical structure and Khmer numerals, according to the Khmer Times. The clock stands 35 meters tall, with a face diameter of 9.7 meters.
According to travel site Cambodia Begins at 40, the bridge, constructed during the time when France colonized Cambodia, suffered damage due to war. When it was later repaired, only the two sections of the bridge closest to the town, on the left side of the picture, were kept in their original design and structure.
Currently, only pedestrians, bicycles, motorbikes, and tuk-tuks (a three-wheeled motorized vehicle) are allowed on the bridge.
In April, Kampot added a new landmark, the seahorse fountain, standing 8 meters tall and overlooking the Prek Kampong Kandal River.
In Cambodian culture, the seahorse symbolizes prosperity, luck, and success. The fountain is expected to become a popular check-in spot for tourists visiting Kampot.
The French-style buildings add to the calm pace of life in the area. Today, these buildings have been repurposed as government offices, restaurants, and cafes.
Tuk-tuks are a common mode of transportation in Cambodia, especially for tourists. Travelers can use the Pass app – a ride-hailing app offering reasonable rates without bargaining. To use this app, visitors need a Cambodian phone number. Some suggested carriers include Smart Axiata, Cellcard, and Metfone.
Source: Vnexpress
