Tourism of Mondulkiri
Mondulkiri is a province situated in the far east of Cambodia. It’s the largest province in the united states. But it may be the least sparsely populated area, with an increase of than half the region comprising forests, preventing any human inhabitation.
It’s the part of Cambodia to go to if travelers like hanging out in the rugged wilderness including pine groves, rolling grass hills, and rainforests. Waterfalls, streams, trails offering splendid views of green landscape and the chance to see Cambodia’s wild can be what make Mondulkiri worth exploring.
History of Mondulkiri
Mondulkiri in the Khmer language means the meeting of the mountains; a name acquired due to its valleys comprising rolling hills. Sen Monorom may be the capital of the area. The province was made in 1960 by order of King Norodom Sihanouk, before that your area was an integral part of Kratie. However, not long afterward, the united states faced civil wars, accompanied by the Vietnam war and the Khmer Rouge. Like other provinces in the united states, Mondulkiri also suffered a good deal under the Khmer Rouge, with most of the population forcibly moved for labor. More than half the people died, and the entire province got shut down, almost making human inhabitation impossible. It was slowly revived as the nation recovered, and local tribes were sent back to Mondulkiri to their homes. The government also undertook many wildlife conservation projects to protect the dense ecosystem against illegal logging, poaching, and commercialisation. Despite all these activities and high resistance, these ecotourism projects have managed to keep the wilderness intact.
Places to Visit
Sen Monorom – A capital town is a beautiful place surrounded by mountains, devoid of any commercialisation. It has not much to offer but is the base for travelers to explore the province. It has a limited number of guesthouses, restaurants and basic amenities to cater to the tourists. Wildlife Conservation projects and tours – There are many wildlife conservation projects undertaken by the government in collaboration with many NGOs. Tourists can visit these centres and can spot wild animals including elephants, leopards, bears, monkeys, wild boars and many species of birds. Among the successful ecotourism projects is the Elephant Valley Project, where tourists can interact with elephants. Also, visit Phnom Prich Wildlife Sanctuary for a safari in the wild. Waterfalls – The dense forests in Mondulkiri are home to many beautiful waterfalls. The most popular is the Bou Sra Waterfall, which receives a lot of travelers who hike up to the pools and the top of the cliffs. Chrey Yos, Chrey Thom, La Ang Khin, and Sen Monorum are the other waterfalls worth visiting in Mondulkiri province.
Food in Mondulkiri
Sen Monorom is not famed across Cambodia for its vibrant nightlife, but 24-hour electricity may soon change that. For the moment though, most retire early, at least compared to the night owls in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Trekking those hills is exhausting. But the options on offer are increasingly diverse, and the only drawback that we could see is that there is nowhere in town serving up Bunong food, which is a shame.
Cafe Phka: South of the High Street; open Mon-Sat 08:00-17:00; Sun 12:00-17:00.
Chilli On The Rocks: South of the High Street, Sen Monorom
Hefalump Cafe: High Street, Sen Monorom; T: (099) 696 041; open Mon-Friday 07:00-18:00, Sat-Sun 11:30-16:00.
Khmer Kitchen: High Street, Sen Monorom; T: (011) 620 461; open daily 06:00-22:00.
Mondulkiri Pizza: South of the High Street, Sen Monorom; T: (097) 522 2219; open daily 09:00-22:00.
Sovannkiri Restaurant: High Street, Sen Monorom; open daily 06:00-21:00.
The Hangout: South of the High Street, Sen Monorom; T: (088) 721 9991; open daily 06:00-22:00.
What is the best time to visit Mondulkiri?
The best time to visit Mondulkiri is between October to February, when the weather is not hot, and the humidity is manageable. Waterfalls will be in full flow post the rainfall here, and greenery surrounds you everywhere during this season. It is a great time to hike in the mountains and spot wildlife.
How to Reach Mondulkiri
The best way to reach is by hiring a car from any of the major towns that you would be departing. It takes about 4 hours from Siem Reap and 6 to 7 hours from Phnom Penh, with the price ranging between 75 to 100 USD for a round trip, which would cost less if shared. Tuk-tuks and motorbikes can be found to bypass within the city to employ costing between 10 to 15 USD.
Itinerary
Day time 1: Spend your first day in the wildlife sanctuaries learning the wildlife, consuming the views of the jungles and keep coming back for a quiet night in Sen Monorom town. Day 2: Proceed waterfall hopping on the next day, you start with Bou Sra Waterfall. Unless you want to go to all, check out the tribal communities for just a little trip, organised by the neighborhood tour operators.
Tips When Arriving in Mondulkiri
The nights often get cold being truly a mountain region. It is suggested to transport some warm clothes. ATMs aren’t within the province and cash may be the only mode of transactions. So carry enough money before planning for a trip.
The connectivity is bound, and there is absolutely no WiFi and electricity can be intermittent. Be sure to prepare accordingly Carry mosquito repellants, essential medicines, raincoats, good pair os of shoes, umbrellas and other activities you might need as there are limited shops.