Cha Ong Waterfall is located approximately 2 km west of Banlung, capital of Ratanakiri Province, in northeastern Cambodge. It originates from Phnom Svay mountain and plunges approximately 25 meters into a forest crossed by a small stream and bordered by rubber plantations. Its name was given by the Kreung ethnic minority, who still inhabit the nearby village of Ka Chanh today.

Why visit Cha Ong Waterfall

Cha Ong is among the most prominent waterfalls around Banlung, in part thanks to its estimated height of 25 meters: during the rainy season, it is often presented as the highest waterfall in Ratanakiri Province, even though other nearby falls such as Ka Tieng display comparable dimensions.

Its defining feature lies mainly in the rocky cave sheltered behind the water curtain, accessible by a trail that descends the slope. This sheltered space, where visitors have left numerous inscriptions over the years, offers an unusual perspective on the fall and the surrounding canopy.

The site remains frequented primarily by travelers exploring northeastern Cambodge, less touristy than the temples of Angkor. It fits into an itinerary of several days around Banlung, combining waterfalls, volcanic lakes, and villages of Ratanakiri's ethnic minorities.

What to see and do

• The main fall: approximately 25 meters high, fed by a stream descending from Phnom Svay.
• The cave behind the waterfall: accessed by a sloping trail, where you can sit and observe the water curtain from inside.
• The pool at the foot of the fall: visitors swim here during the rainy season, when the water flow remains strong without being dangerous. Exercise caution after heavy recent rains.
• The rubber plantations: they border the access trail and stream banks, giving an idea of the cash crops that structure the province.
• Surrounding villages: Ka Chanh, inhabited by the Kreung, can be visited with a local guide to better understand the culture of Ratanakiri's ethnic minorities.

When to visit

The rainy season, from May to October, gives the waterfall its maximum flow and surrounds the site with dense vegetation. This is the most spectacular period, but also the most humid: muddy trails, sometimes slippery access, swimming best avoided during flooding.

From November to February, the dry season is more comfortable for walking and visiting villages, but Cha Ong's water flow decreases noticeably. March and April correspond to the hottest months, with low flow. To combine photogenic appeal with comfort, the end of the rainy season (September-October) often offers a good compromise.

Practical information

• Duration of visit: allow 1 to 2 hours on site, longer if you combine with another waterfall.
• Entrance fee: a modest entrance fee is generally requested at the site entrance, collected by the local community.
• Hiking level: the descent to the foot of the waterfall uses a trail and wooden steps, short but steep. Closed-toe shoes recommended.
• Swimming: possible in the lower pool at moderate flow, to be avoided after heavy rains.
• What to bring: water, insect repellent, change of clothes, waterproof bag for camera equipment.

Regarding elephant trekking sometimes offered in the region, it is best to avoid it: the conditions of detention of these animals raise animal welfare concerns that are widely documented.

How to get there

From Banlung, you reach Cha Ong by taking National Road 19 in the direction of Stung Treng, then a trail of approximately 6 km that leads to the village of Cha Ong. The journey is made by motorcycle taxi or tuk-tuk from the city center, with a travel time of about twenty minutes depending on the condition of the tracks.

Renting a motorcycle in Banlung remains the most flexible solution for visiting several waterfalls in a day. During the rainy season, some sections become muddy: a local driver knows better which detours are passable.

What to combine nearby

Cha Ong is rarely visited alone. Travelers often combine it with other waterfalls in Ratanakiri (Ka Tieng, Katieng) and the volcanic lake of Yeak Laom, located a few kilometers east of Banlung. To extend your discovery of Cambodge with a cultural focus, the western part of the country concentrates the great Khmer sites such as Angkor Wat, Banteay Srey, or Bakong.

Preparing your trip

To incorporate Cha Ong and the Ratanakiri region into a custom-made itinerary, browse our trips to Cambodge and speak with our English-speaking advisors to adjust your route according to the season and your interests.