Preah Monivong National Park

Preah Monivong National Park is a protected forest area in southern Cambodia featuring dense rainforest, waterfalls, and mountain terrain. The landscape includes hiking routes of varying difficulty that lead through varied ecosystems and vegetation zones.

French colonial administrators established a hill station on the heights in 1921 as a refuge from coastal heat for European residents. This period left behind structures and infrastructure that visitors can still observe today.

The 29-meter Lok Yeay Mao statue, built in 2010, depicts a Buddhist figure that locals believe protects travelers crossing the mountains. Pilgrims and visitors often visit to pay respects at this spiritual site.

The park is accessible throughout the year, though weather conditions vary by season affecting trail difficulty and views. Visitors should bring waterproof gear and sturdy footwear, as paths include steep sections and wet conditions depending on rainfall.

A rare Catholic chapel from 1928 stands at high altitude among Buddhist temples in this mountain region. This coexistence of different religious traditions reflects an interesting chapter in the area's colonial past.