Katieng Waterfall is a cascade of approximately 10 metres located 7 km south-west of Banlung, in Ratanakiri Province. Fed by the Kotung stream, it sits 3 km downstream from the neighbouring Kachanh waterfall. Its name derives from the Kreung tribe and the nearby village of Ka Kieng. It is one of three emblematic cascades typically visited together during a stay in Banlung.

Why visit Katieng Waterfall

Less crowded than its neighbour Kachanh, Katieng offers a forest setting ideal for swimming and a respite from the Ratanakiri heat. The waterfall maintains a flow year-round, though it diminishes significantly in the dry season. The site's appeal extends beyond the cascade itself: the red earth road leading to it passes through Kreung villages, where traditional craftsmanship is still alive. It is a short stop, perfect to combine with a circuit around Banlung.

What to see and do

The waterfall and its basin

A wooden staircase descends from the heights to the foot of the waterfall, where large naturally scattered rocks provide seating at the pool's edge. Swimming is possible in the downstream basin. Allow approximately 1 hour on site to enjoy the water and explore the viewpoint.

Kreung craftsmanship

The access path passes through several hamlets of the Kreung tribe, one of Ratanakiri's indigenous groups. You will find a few small shops offering:

• baskets woven from natural fibres;
• traditionally hand-dyed textiles;
• calabash gourds and small gongs, ritual instruments of the region.

On the site itself, stalls sell drinks, snacks and souvenirs.

Wat Thmay Pagoda

On the return path to Banlung, a trail lined with small prayer flags leads to Wat Thmay Pagoda, still inhabited by a community of monks. The complex comprises the temple, a communal hall and a classroom, surrounded by jungle and plantations. The visit is brief but offers a glimpse of active monastic life.

Practical information

• Duration: 1 to 2 hours on site; allow half a day combining Katieng and Kachanh.
• Entrance fee: modest entry fee, payable upon arrival.
• Equipment: swimwear, towel, closed shoes for the stairs, insect repellent.
• Services: drink and souvenir stalls at the entrance, no formal dining facilities.

When to visit

The rainy season (June to October) offers the most spectacular flow, but the red earth tracks become slippery and sometimes impassable. The dry season (November to May) is more comfortable for travelling by bike or motorbike around Banlung, with reduced flow but water still flowing. Late rainy season, October–November, combines both advantages: good flow and passable tracks.

How to get there

The waterfall is approximately 7 km south-west of Banlung, about 20 to 30 minutes by road depending on track conditions. Several options:

• Motorbike or scooter: the most flexible solution, easily rented in Banlung;
• Tuk-tuk: arranged from the town centre, allow for a return trip with waiting time;
• Bicycle: feasible in the dry season for cyclists accustomed to earth tracks.

The road is made of laterite, the famous red earth of Ratanakiri that permanently stains light-coloured clothing.

Nearby attractions

• Kachanh Waterfall: 3 km upstream on the same stream, often visited with Katieng.
• Wat Thmay Pagoda: on the return route, accessible by a flag-marked trail.
• Kreung villages in the district, passed on the access road.
• Banlung and its volcanic lake Yeak Laom, about thirty minutes away.

Frequently asked questions

Including Katieng in your journey

Katieng Waterfall naturally fits into a circuit dedicated to Ratanakiri, a still-undiscovered region in north-east Cambodge. To build an itinerary combining Banlung, its waterfalls and the country's major sites, consult our suggestions for travel to Cambodge.