Banlung is the capital of Banlung district and Ratanakiri province. It is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, sheltering rich natural resources. It thus offers visitors the opportunity to discover the beauty of its lush flora, abundant fauna and local culture. Following hiking trails or aboard bamboo rafts, tourists enjoy these walks on foot or by water, with family or in groups.

History

Following the fall of the Khmer Rouge in 1979, the capital of Ratanakiri was transferred to the city of Banlung to facilitate exchanges with neighboring countries such as Vietnam and Laos. Formerly called Labansiek, it thus became a provincial capital.

Geography

Banlung is located in the mountains at the center of Ratanakiri province, one of the most isolated regions of Cambodia. Bordered by Vietnamese and Laotian frontiers, Ratanakiri is situated 636 km from Phnom Penh. It is thus located in the northeastern part of the country. Banlung comprises 16 villages grouped into three communes: Kachanh, Labansiek and Yeom Laom.

Banlung Today

Banlung is often used as a base for travelers visiting the surroundings. Its geographical location offers easy access to the city's main tourist attractions. This contributes greatly to the development of its ecotourism.

Given its wide secondary roads colored by the red ochre of the earth, this place is reminiscent of Far West towns. Sometimes Banlung is renamed "dey krahorm" or "red earth." Its buildings, mostly newly constructed houses on both sides of the main road, and the vegetation are often covered in red dust.

Banlung is one of Cambodia's least populated cities. In 2006, its population numbered only 17,000 inhabitants. These inhabitants are sellers of local products from an indigenous minority called the "Chunchiet." The men of this minority are recognized by their distinctive multicolored backpacks for transporting goods, and the women by their turbans made from Sarong, a piece of small checkered cotton fabric.

For a multisensory experience, Banlung's main market is truly worth a visit. It is a traditional market that allows you to discover local products and local gastronomic culture. It is therefore a very lively market. The minorities living around the city come here to stock up or sell products from their agriculture or livestock.

Virachey National Park

Located near the city, Virachey National Park is home to the biodiversity of the Ratanakiri region. Recently designated as a protected area, it is Cambodia's largest park. The zone shelters numerous animal species such as leopards, elephants, gibbons and bears. For the greatest pleasure of nature-loving tourists, the local government organizes trekking itineraries of several days including guides and stays among the local population.

Yeak Leom Volcanic Lake

Yeak Leom Lake ranks among the city's most important attractions. For locals, this lake has a mystical character, harboring mysterious aquatic creatures. This is why it is considered sacred. It is a volcanic lake 50 meters deep nestled in a crater. Hidden in the midst of lush forest, this lake is like a natural swimming pool with a transparent, crystalline surface perfect for diving or swimming.

Waterfalls

Banlung's ecotourism develops through its waterfalls. They are among the attractions that draw tourists to Ratanakiri province. Located around the city, generally more than 30 km away, the most famous cascades in the region are Cha Ong waterfall, Kachanh waterfall and Katieng waterfall. Year-round, these sites will delight tourists spending unforgettable moments here. During the rainy season, they sing amid lush forest, and during the dry season, they offer tourists the chance for refreshing swims in the region's sweltering heat.

Climate

According to the Köppen-Geiger classification, Banlung enjoys a tropical savanna climate with dry winters. It receives substantial summer precipitation averaging 2,725 mm. The average temperature in this part of Ratanakiri is 27°C. The hottest period of the year occurs in April with temperatures reaching 38°C. The best times to visit the city are thus the months of January and December.

Airplane

Banlung has a small airfield that mainly connects the city to the capital Phnom Penh. The airfield is currently closed, making overland transport the only means of connecting Banlung to its neighboring cities: by public or private bus, by car or by motorbike.

Motorbike

To move around the city or reach nearby attractions, it is more practical to rent a motorbike or bicycle. You will find rental services available throughout the city.

Bus

Banlung's bus station is located in the city center and south of the Independence Monument. Buses generally connect four regions: Stung Treng, Kratie, Kompong Cham and Phnom Penh.

What to Do?

• Dive or swim in the Yeak Leom volcanic lake.
• Explore Virachey National Park to discover the region's natural beauty.
• Visit the beautiful waterfalls.