Phnom Sopor Kaley

Phnom Sopor Kaley, a mountain crowned by a majestic pagoda at its summit, is located on the eastern bank of the Mekong River in Kratié province, 45 kilometers south of the provincial capital bearing the same name. It is a site of historical and cultural significance in the region, and visiting it is a must if you're passing through during your stay in Cambodia.

History

A popular historical belief has given rise to a myth surrounding Phnom Sopor Kaley. According to legend, the mountain was named after a crocodile called Sopor Kaley by locals from nearby villages. A hunter and famed warrior named Nen Thun defeated and killed the crocodile. After its death, the animal is said to have been reincarnated as the mountain that stands here today. Hence the name Phnom Sopor Kaley, meaning “Mount Sopor Kaley.”

This belief in the embodiment of spirits within minerals, landforms, or natural sites stems from animism. Although animist beliefs are now only marginally present in Cambodian society, they were widespread before the arrival of Hinduism, which began to spread with the development of the Funan Kingdom from the 1st century AD. This legend may therefore predate the Common Era.

Visiting Phnom Sopor Kaley

To reach the spectacular summit of Phnom Sopor Kaley, you’ll need to climb a red laterite path followed by a staircase with over 800 steps! From the top of the hill, you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the Mekong River and the river island of Koh Tasui to the south. You’ll also spot the traditional village of Chrauy Banteay below, surrounded by expansive rice fields and grazing lands as far as the eye can see.

You can also visit the mountain's pagoda. With the help of a guide, you’ll learn a great deal about Buddhism in Cambodia and the philosophy embraced by locals in their daily lives.

How to get there

To reach the base of Phnom Sopor Kaley, simply depart from Kratié heading west on National Road 73 toward the town of Chloung. From there, take a ferry to cross the Mekong River. Once on the other side, it’s about twelve more kilometers west to reach the mountain.

Sopor Kaley is also a regular stop for cruises along the Mekong.