Mondulkiri Province

Name: Mondulkiri

Cambodian Name: មណ្ឌលគីរី

Capital: Sen Monorom

Status: Province

Area: 14,288 km²

Population : 60,811 inhabitants in 2008

Blessed with its generous nature and located at an altitude of 800 meters in the northeast of Phnom Penh, Mondulkiri Province is full of treasures. It is also the perfect place for a wonderful holiday, offering the opportunity to discover wild landscapes in the heart of a vast jungle, wooded hills, and many wild animals. During your trip to Cambodia, do not miss visiting one of the country's most beautiful regions.

Today

Region Description

The name "Mondulkiri" translates from Khmer as "meeting of the hills." It is dominated by a vast jungle with an ecosystem that is both rich in fauna and flora and still intact. It has a large area where dense, primary forests shelter wild animals such as tigers, leopards, and elephants. Mondulkiri remains a remote region, untouched by urban influences.

Mondulkiri Province is made up of 5 districts:

• The district of Kaev Seima, which translates to "border of precious stones."
• The district of Kaoh Nheaek, which literally means "split island."
• The district of Ou Reang.
• The district of Pechr Chenda, or "the diamond of the heart."
• The district of Sen Monorom, which means "full of charm."

Population

Mondulkiri Province is home to many ethnic groups. As a result, it has a wide variety of languages, including Khmer, languages of the Hill Tribes, Vietnamese, and Lao. 80% of the population of Mondulkiri is made up of ten tribal minorities, the majority being the Chunchiet of the Phnong tribe. The remaining 20% consists of Khmers, Chinese, and Cham Muslims. Most of the population is involved in agriculture, primarily rice farming, fruit tree cultivation, and a large production of vegetables.

What to see in Mondulkiri?

Visit Sen Monorom

Sen Monorom is considered the capital city of the Mondulkiri region. It is also the base camp for travelers looking to explore the province. Situated 1000 meters above sea level, it is located 370 km or about four hours by road from Phnom Penh. This small town is surrounded by Bunong villages, where the villagers still live in traditional ways. Families live in huts with straw roofs. The town is a wonderful place for excursions and sharing unique moments with the villagers. To reach the Mondulkiri jungle, you must travel by motorcycle from the town of Sen Monorom.

Sen Monorom has about 7,500 inhabitants, 20 guesthouses, and 12 restaurants. The atmosphere in the town is often compared to that of border towns in Texas. In addition to the calm and relaxing atmosphere of the town, many people from other parts of the country have settled in Sen Monorom.

See the famous waterfalls and cascades

The Mondulkiri region is famous for its waterfalls and beautiful cascades. Among these stunning waterfalls, the largest is Bousra, located in the heart of Mondulkiri's jungle. After a long walk through the jungle, visitors can cool off in nature. Additionally, the province has other waterfalls, including Dak Dam and Romanear.

• Bousra Waterfall

Considered the largest waterfall in the province, Bousra is located 30 km from the town of Sen Monorom. Upon arrival, you will discover beautiful landscapes with an impressive double waterfall. The entrance fee is $2.5 USD ($2.25 for locals), which grants access to a lovely spot for picnicking, swimming under the falls, and taking beautiful photos.

• Dak Dam Waterfall

Located on the same road as Bousra, Dak Dam Waterfall offers landscapes quite different from those near Bousra. The land is red, and after the rainy season, the hills turn green. Locals are sometimes seen washing clothes or motorcycles in the waters of Dak Dam. Additionally, you can visit the village of the same name, where villagers will offer to sell their beautiful handmade fabrics.

See the Elephants

During your visit to Mondulkiri, you cannot leave the region without seeing its beautiful elephants that inhabit the jungle. You can spend quality time with them, guided by local experts, and learn more about the uniqueness of this species.

Climate

Mondulkiri Province has a tropical climate and is divided into three seasons:

• Rainy season from June to October, with temperatures below 25°C.
• Best season from November to February, with temperatures above 20°C.
• Hot season from March to May, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C.

The average annual temperature in Mondulkiri is much lower than in other regions of Cambodia.

What to do in Mondulkiri?

• Go on a wild hike in Mondulkiri's jungle and admire the elephants.
• Visit the waterfalls and cascades in the province's jungle.
• Explore the town of Sen Monorom and discover the culture and way of life of the Bunong villagers.

How to get there?

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

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

How to get around?

To explore Mondulkiri Province, you can rent a car, motorcycle-taxi, or motorcycle. Motorcycle rentals range from $5 to $8 USD per day, while motorcycle-taxi fares depend on the route, ranging from $5 to $20 USD.

Best time to visit Mondulkiri

The best time to visit Mondulkiri Province is at the end of the rainy season, starting from November. It is at this time that Mondulkiri offers its most beautiful lush landscapes.