About Mondulkiri Province

Mondulkiri province is a magical place, full of great natural beauty and untamed landscapes. It is the most sparsely populated province in Cambodia, despite being the largest in land area. With miles of lush rolling hills, majestic waterfalls and some of the largest protected forest areas in the country. The variety of plant and wildlife species is astounding, with new evidence of extremely rare and some newly discovered species. Great conservation efforts are being made and the promotion of ecotourism can hopefully help protect the area.

When is the best Time To Visit Mondulkiri?

Being a hill station, the Mondulkiri highlands offer a unique climate and seasonal cycle very different the elsewhere in Cambodia.  The Sen Monorom highlands area offers a comfortable break from the tropical heat of Cambodia all year round. You will probably enjoy the fresh air and sleep comfortably with no need for a A/C or fan. Don’t forget to bring a light jumper / fleece to wear on cooler nights.

Visiting Mondulkiri on public holidays:
Cambodia is blessed with many festivals and public holidays. The Khmers love to go touring on these occasions. Sen Monorom, which usually has many vacancies is sometimes completely booked up. Travelers can expect higher rates on accommodation and tickets –as well as the lack of some services.

The Seasonal Cycle Of Mondulkiri

Mondulkiri province has slightly different weather then the rest of Cambodia. It even has a mild winter, each season is eccentric and has it's own magical atmosphere:

November – Febuary: In Mondulkiri autumn, some trees start shedding their leafs. the north east wind starts blowing onto the hills, slowly drying up the landscape before the next spring rains. Wild grass fires are common at this time of year, you can often see them in the distance, lighting up Mondulkiri’s cold winters nights.

March – July:  In early spring the first rains color the grass lands fresh green, early summer rains help cool the hottest time of the year. Many wild fruits and flowers attract a variety of colorful birds and butterflies, making it the best season for bird watchers. Most major festivals and weddings are held during this season and the harvest avocado begins in May. Mondulkiri is the only place in Cambodia cool enough for growing avocados.
August – October: The monsoon rains peak from mid August till the end of September. The rivers swell and feed all Waterfalls into full force. Now, that the road is complete, You can easily visit Mondulkiri all year round.

The Bunong people - Mondulkiri's Indigenous People.
The Bunong people have been living in the hills and jungles of Mondulkiri for centuries, their unique culture includes a tradition of taming wild elephants for work and transportation. No one knows how long ago this custom had began. In fact, the Bunong themselves are an anthropological mystery, their origin not clear. They speak an independent Bunong dialect, which is only slightly influenced by Khmer language. The Bunong practice an ancient, animist religion. Spirits can be seen as a reason for both luck or misfortune.