Name: Mondulkiri

Khmer Name: មណ្ឌលគីរី

Capital: Sen Monorom

Status: Province

Area: 14,288 km²

Population: 60,811 inhabitants (2008)

Blessed with generous natural landscapes and situated at an altitude of 800 meters in the northeast of Phnom Penh, Mondulkiri province holds countless treasures. It's the ideal place for a memorable getaway, where you'll discover wild scenery in the heart of an immense jungle, forested hills, and abundant wildlife. During your visit to Cambodge, don't miss one of the country's most stunning regions.

Today

Region Overview

The name "Mondulkiri" translates from Khmer as "meeting of the hills." The province is dominated by a vast jungle with a rich and still-intact ecosystem of flora and fauna. It encompasses large areas of thick primary forest inhabited by wild animals such as tigers, leopards, and elephants. Mondulkiri remains a remote region, preserved from the influences of urbanization.

Mondulkiri province comprises 5 districts:

• Kaev Seima District, which translates to "frontier of precious stones."

• Kaoh Nheaek District, literally meaning "bifurcated island."

• Ou Reang District.

• Pechr Chenda District, known as "the diamond of the heart."

• Sen Monorom District, which signifies "that which possesses much charm."

Population

Mondulkiri province is home to numerous ethnic groups, reflected in the variety of languages spoken: Khmer, Hill Tribe languages, Vietnamese, and Lao. Approximately 80% of Mondulkiri's population consists of ten tribal minorities, with the majority being the Phnong tribe, also known as Chunchiet. The remaining 20% are Khmer, Chinese, and Cham Muslims. Most of the population engages in agriculture, primarily rice cultivation, fruit trees, and substantial vegetable production.

What to See in Mondulkiri?

Visiting Sen Monorom

Sen Monorom is considered the capital town of Mondulkiri region and serves as the base camp for travelers exploring the province. Perched at 1,000 meters altitude, it sits 370 km or four hours' drive from Phnom Penh. This small town is surrounded by Bunong villages where residents still live in traditional ways, dwelling in straw-roofed huts. The town is an excellent hub for excursions and sharing unique moments with villagers. To venture into Mondulkiri's jungle, you'll travel by motorbike from Sen Monorom.

Sen Monorom has approximately 7,500 inhabitants, 20 guesthouses, and 12 restaurants. The town's atmosphere is often compared to frontier towns of the American Southwest. Beyond its calm and restful ambiance, residents from other regions of Cambodge have settled here.

Discover the Province's Famous Waterfalls and Cascades

Mondulkiri is renowned for its waterfalls and beautiful cascades. Among these, you'll find the largest of all: Bousra, a cascade nestled in the heart of Mondulkiri's jungle. After a long jungle walk, you can refresh yourself in nature's embrace. The province also features other impressive waterfalls such as Dak Dam and Romanear.

• Bousra Waterfall

Considered the province's largest cascade, it lies 30 km from Sen Monorom town. Upon arrival, you'll discover stunning landscapes with an imposing double waterfall. Entrance fees are $2.50 USD ($2.25 for locals) and provide access to a wonderful picnic spot, swimming under the falls, and photo opportunities.

• Dak Dam Waterfall

Located on the same route as Bousra, Dak Dam cascade offers quite different scenery compared to Bousra. The earth here is reddish, and after rainy seasons the hills turn lush green. You'll sometimes encounter locals washing their clothes or motorbikes in Dak Dam's waters. You can also visit the village of the same name, where local women offer handwoven textiles for sale.

Encounter the Elephants

You cannot visit Mondulkiri without experiencing its magnificent elephants inhabiting the jungle. You can spend wonderful moments with them guided by local experts and learn more about this remarkable species.

Climate

Mondulkiri province has a tropical climate divided into 3 seasons:

• The rainy season from June to October with temperatures below 25°C.
• The best season from November to February with temperatures above 20°C.
• The hot season from March to May with temperatures between 20°C and 30°C.

The average annual temperature in Mondulkiri province is noticeably lower than in other regions of Cambodge.

What to Do in Mondulkiri?

• Trek through Mondulkiri's wild jungle and marvel at the elephants.

• Explore the waterfalls and cascades hidden in the province's jungle.

• Visit Sen Monorom town and immerse yourself in the culture and lifestyle of the Bunong villagers.

To reach Mondulkiri province, you can take a bus to Sen Monorom, the provincial capital. Available transport options include buses and minivans. Buses depart from stations at Psar Thmey and Psar Depot markets in Phnom Penh.

Other transport options include private taxis, shared taxis, and car rentals.

To explore Mondulkiri province, you'll need to rent a car, moto-taxi, or motorbike. Motorbike rentals range from $5 to $8 USD daily, while moto-taxi rentals vary by route and typically cost between $5 to $20 USD.

Best Times to Visit Mondulkiri Province

The best period to visit Mondulkiri is at the end of the rainy season, beginning in November. This is when Mondulkiri reveals its most lush and verdant landscapes.