Bokor Hill Station Travel Guide: Cambodia’s Haunted Colonial Ruins

High above the steamy plains of southern Cambodia lies Bokor Hill Station, a fog-drenched mountaintop filled with eerie ruins, stunning viewpoints, and echoes of the past. Built by the French in the 1920s as a colonial resort escape, Bokor has since evolved into one of Cambodia’s most fascinating and haunting historical destinations.
 

Located within Preah Monivong Bokor National Park, this highland ghost town combines natural beauty, colonial architecture, spiritual sites, and chilling history—all just a short ride from Kampot.

🗺️ Where Is Bokor Hill Station?

Location: Bokor Mountain (Phnom Bokor), 37 km west of Kampot

Elevation: ~1,080 meters above sea level

Province: Kampot Province, southern Cambodia

With cooler air and panoramic views of the Gulf of Thailand, Bokor provides a refreshing break from the lowland heat.

🚗 How to Get to Bokor Hill Station

From Kampot:

Motorbike: ~45 minutes to 1 hour; the most popular way to visit

Tuk-tuk or taxi: Easily arranged; best for groups or non-riders

Tour: Many local agencies offer guided day trips

Tip: Roads are paved and smooth, but fog and rain can reduce visibility. Drive with caution.

🎒 What to Bring

Light jacket or sweater (cooler temperatures)

Camera or phone for photos

Snacks and water (limited food options on the mountain)

Sunscreen and rain gear (weather changes quickly)

🌄 Top Attractions at Bokor Hill Station

🏨 1. Old Bokor Palace Hotel & Casino (Abandoned)

Built in 1925, this iconic structure was once a luxury resort for French elites. Now an abandoned, mist-covered ruin, it’s the most famous landmark of Bokor Hill Station.

Walk through empty halls and imagine the roaring 20s

Stunning views on clear days over the coastline

Atmospheric in fog or during golden hour

Fun Fact: The site was used in several films, including City of Ghosts.

🕍 2. Bokor Catholic Church (Abandoned)

Another haunting remnant of French colonial life, this hilltop church stands weathered and covered in moss. Despite its age, the stone structure is still intact and deeply photogenic.

Great place for moody photos

A symbol of Cambodia’s colonial and spiritual past

Popular with ghost-story lovers

🏯 3. Wat Sampov Pram (Five Boats Pagoda)

Located near the summit, this still-functioning Buddhist temple offers:

Beautiful sea views from cliffs

Stone “boat” formations tied to local legend

Peaceful grounds with Buddhist statues and shrines

Tip: Visit in the early morning for a serene, meditative experience.

⛲ 4. Popokvil Waterfall

A short drive from the old casino ruins, Popokvil Waterfall is a two-tiered waterfall surrounded by jungle.

Best seen in the rainy season (June–October)

Cool, misty atmosphere with a natural swimming spot

Restaurant and picnic area nearby

🛣️ 5. Scenic Mountain Drive

Even if you skip the ruins, the drive to the top of Bokor is worth it alone:

Winding road with lookout points

Stunning views of the Kampot countryside, salt fields, and Gulf of Thailand

Occasional wildlife sightings (monkeys, birds)

🏗️ New vs Old Bokor: The Controversy

In recent years, modern development has come to Bokor Hill Station, including:

Thansur Sokha Hotel & Casino – a functioning resort complex

Roads, homes, and infrastructure aimed at turning Bokor into a major tourist hub

These developments have sparked concern among conservationists and history lovers, as they risk overshadowing the site’s historical value and fragile ecosystem.

🕰️ History of Bokor Hill Station

Haunted Status: Due to its tragic past (including violent conflict and decay), Bokor is considered one of Southeast Asia’s most haunted places.

🏨 Where to Stay Near Bokor Hill Station

In Kampot (Best Base):

Rikitikitavi – Riverside boutique hotel

GreenHouse – Nature lodge with river views

Kampot River Residence – Peaceful luxury eco-stay

On Bokor Mountain:

Thansur Sokha Hotel – Large, modern casino resort with restaurants and spa
Note: lacks the charm of Kampot accommodations but convenient if staying overnight on the mountain

🍽️ Food & Dining Options

On Bokor:

Thansur Sokha Hotel Restaurants – Several dining options

Popokvil Waterfall Café – Local food, drinks, and snacks

Vendors at the Wat Sampov Pram area selling fruit, noodles, etc.

In Kampot (Before/After Trip):

Simple Things – Vegetarian & healthy meals

Rusty Keyhole – Known for ribs and Western food

Ecran Noodles – Famous handmade dumplings and noodles

📅 Best Time to Visit Bokor Hill Station

Fog Warning: Fog can roll in suddenly—even during dry season—so bring layers and drive carefully.

📸 Photography Tips

Sunrise or Sunset: Golden light on the ruins or the coast

Foggy Mornings: Perfect for moody, atmospheric shots

Drone Photography: Great views from above the ruins (check local regulations)

Wide-angle lens: Ideal for capturing sweeping landscapes and abandoned interiors

🧳 Travel Tips for Bokor Hill Station

Entry Fee: Free for now, though the national park may charge a small fee in the future

Weather: Can drop to 15–20°C; wear layers

Fuel Up: No gas stations on the mountain—fill up in Kampot

Drive Safe: Fog, rain, and monkeys can appear suddenly

Respect the Past: Some sites are spiritual or linked to tragic events

🗓️ Suggested 1-Day Itinerary

Morning

Depart Kampot by 8:00 AM

Stop at viewpoints on the way up

Explore Old Bokor Palace Hotel and Catholic Church

Afternoon

Visit Wat Sampov Pram

Lunch at Popokvil Waterfall café

Short hike or relax at the falls

Evening

Catch sunset from Bokor summit or while descending

Return to Kampot for dinner by the river

🎯 Why Visit Bokor Hill Station?

Bokor Hill Station is more than just a collection of abandoned buildings—it's a place where history, mystery, and nature intertwine.

It offers a rare look into Cambodia’s colonial past

It provides a cool, scenic escape from the lowlands

It invites introspection and wonder with every step through its ruins

Whether you're a history buff, photographer, biker, or just a curious traveler, Bokor Hill Station is an unforgettable detour through Cambodia’s misty highlands.