Bokor Hill Station | Kampot

Bokor Hill Station is an abandoned hilltop resort located in the Bokor Mountains, part of the Bokor National Park in the Kampot Province of Cambodia. Built in the early 1920s during the French colonial period, it was once a luxurious retreat for the French elite, offering a cool escape from the heat of Cambodia's lowlands. Today, the site is a popular tourist attraction due to its eerie, historic atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

History

Bokor Hill Station was constructed by the French colonialists in the 1920s to serve as a high-altitude resort, providing respite from the tropical heat. The French believed that the cool climate at the top of Bokor Mountain—which reaches an elevation of 1,080 meters (3,543 feet)—would offer a welcome break from the oppressive heat of the Cambodian lowlands. The station was built with a range of facilities, including a hotel, casino, church, and a number of villas for the colonial elite.

Over the years, Bokor Hill Station became a popular vacation spot for the French, but it fell into decline after Cambodia gained independence in 1953. The resort was abandoned during the Khmer Rouge era in the 1970s, and many of its buildings were left to decay. Despite this, the area remained an important part of Cambodia's history.

In the 1990s and early 2000s, there were attempts to revitalize the area. A new road was constructed to reach the hilltop, and several new developments, including a large hotel and casino, were built in the area. These efforts aimed to bring tourism back to the once-thriving location, although they have also led to concerns about the preservation of the area’s historical integrity.

Key Attractions

The Bokor Hill Station is famous for its abandoned, yet hauntingly beautiful structures. Some of the main attractions on the hill include:

The Abandoned Casino: Perhaps the most iconic building at Bokor Hill Station is the old casino, which was constructed during the French era. It sits in an eerie state of disrepair, with broken windows, graffiti-covered walls, and an overall sense of abandonment. This casino is one of the most photographed landmarks on the hill, and it has become a symbol of the decline of the once-grand resort.

The Bokor Palace Hotel: The former hotel, which was designed to accommodate French colonial elites, is now in ruins. Though much of the building has fallen into disrepair, parts of the structure remain standing, providing visitors with a glimpse of its former grandeur. The hotel’s colonial architecture and overgrown surroundings give it a mysterious and atmospheric feel.

Wat Bokor: Also known as the Bokor Hilltop Temple, this Buddhist temple is a more recent addition to the area. It was constructed in the early 2000s as part of the renewed development of the area. The temple offers a tranquil spot for reflection and prayer, and it is notable for its beautiful surroundings and stunning views of the surrounding jungle and coastline.

The French Colonial Church: The French Church, often referred to as the Church on Bokor Hill, is another key structure at the site. It was originally built as a place of worship for French colonists and their families. The church, though in a dilapidated state, still retains some of its former charm, with the ruins adding to the overall atmospheric experience of the area.

Waterfalls: Several waterfalls are located in the Bokor National Park, including Popokvil Waterfall. These picturesque falls are a popular stop for visitors who hike or drive up to the hill station, offering refreshing views of cascading water amidst the lush greenery.

Stunning Views: One of the main reasons visitors come to Bokor Hill Station is for the breathtaking views. On a clear day, visitors can see the Gulf of Thailand to the south, as well as distant mountains and dense jungle. The view of the coastline from the top of Bokor Mountain is truly spectacular and offers an entirely different perspective of Cambodia.

The Atmosphere

Bokor Hill Station is known for its mysterious and eerie atmosphere. The combination of abandoned buildings, misty weather, and rugged jungle surroundings creates an almost ghostly environment, especially when the weather is foggy or rainy. The sense of abandonment is palpable, with vegetation overtaking many of the old buildings and wildlife reclaiming the area.

While some people visit Bokor Hill Station for its historical significance, many others are drawn to the site for the eerie, otherworldly experience of exploring an abandoned resort in the middle of a lush mountain range.

Getting There

Bokor Hill Station is accessible by road, and visitors can drive or take guided tours to the top of the mountain. The road leading to the hill station was constructed in recent years, which has made the area more accessible for tourists. The drive up is winding, with scenic views of the surrounding landscape and jungle as you ascend the mountain.

The closest town to Bokor Hill Station is Kampot, which is approximately a 30-minute drive away. From Kampot, visitors can hire a tuk-tuk, taxi, or take a tour that will bring them to the hill station. Some visitors also prefer to hike up the mountain for a more adventurous experience.

Weather

The weather at Bokor Hill Station is cooler and more temperate than in the surrounding lowlands, thanks to the mountain’s elevation. Visitors can expect cooler temperatures, especially in the morning and evening, when the temperature can drop significantly. Fog is common, adding to the mystical atmosphere of the area. However, the weather can also be unpredictable, with rain showers and mist that can obscure the views.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Bokor Hill Station is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is relatively pleasant, and the views are typically clearer. The rainy season, from May to October, can make the roads slippery and muddy, and visibility may be reduced due to fog and rain. However, the rainy season also brings lush greenery, which adds to the natural beauty of the area.

Conservation and Development

While Bokor Hill Station has been a popular tourist destination in recent years, the area faces challenges related to development and conservation. The construction of new hotels, casinos, and other infrastructure has raised concerns about the preservation of the historical site and the surrounding environment. Many local activists and conservationists are working to ensure that the development of the area does not harm the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Bokor National Park.

Conclusion

Bokor Hill Station is an intriguing mix of history, mystery, and natural beauty. Its abandoned buildings, including the old casino and hotel, provide a glimpse into Cambodia’s colonial past, while the surrounding landscapes offer stunning views and peaceful retreats. Whether you’re interested in history, photography, or simply experiencing the haunting atmosphere of an abandoned resort, Bokor Hill Station is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Kampot Province. Its eerie charm and scenic views make it one of Cambodia’s most unique and captivating locations.