Prime Minister Hun Manet (fifth from the left) hiked the Khnong Phsar mountains on March 8. Accompanying him were tourism minister Huot Hak, environment minister Eang Sophalleth and Kampong Speu governor Cheam Chan Sophorn. FB
On this year’s March 8 International Women’s Day, Prime Minister Hun Manet embarked on a hike up the Khnang Phsar and Khnang Sampov mountains. He experienced the area's natural beauty firsthand and promoted its potential for eco-tourism and community-based economic growth.
In a March 9 social media post, the prime minister shared his experience, stating, “Yesterday, I spent about 4 hours and 30 minutes hiking from the foot of Khnang Phsar to its peak.
“Although it was a bit tiring, it was well worth it, as I witnessed the natural beauty and tourism potential of Khnang Phsar and Khnang Sampov — far beyond what I had previously seen on TV or social media.”
Joining him were Minister of Tourism Huot Hak, Minister of Environment Eang Sophalleth and Kampong Speu provincial governor Cheam Chan Sophorn.
The high-ranking officials explored ways to enhance eco-tourism in the area while supporting the livelihoods of local communities.
The prime minister’s group trekked for around four-and-a- half hours. FB
During a discussion with local residents, the prime minister emphasised that vehicles are only permitted at the base of the mountain, requiring visitors to continue on foot — ensuring an immersive adventure and true appreciation of the landscape.
Environment minister Eang Sophalleth previously visited Khnang Phsar on February 23.
The mountain, located at the intersection of Koh Kong, Kampong Speu, and Pursat provinces, has attracted over 100 visitors since January, each of them enjoying the breathtaking scenery and adventure opportunities.
Sophalleth, who hiked more than three kilometres through scenic sites such as Phnom Khnong Krapeu and Phnom Khnong Srov, described the landscape as resembling “a vast carpet of gold spread over the mountain” during this time of year.
According to environment ministry spokesperson Khvay Atitya, Cambodia has established 193 community-managed protected areas covering 332,108 hectares across 362 villages and 115 communes, in 15 provinces.
Together, these communities comprise 73,149 households.
Khnong Phsar is known for its remote and rugged terrain, making it a destination for eco-tourism, adventure seekers, and those interested in wildlife conservation.
The area is home to diverse flora and fauna, including endangered species such as Asian elephants and clouded leopards.
Historically, Khnong Phsar was also a strategic location during the Cambodian civil war and was used as a hideout by the Khmer Rouge.
Today, it remains a largely explored region, attracting trekkers who want to experience untouched nature and the beauty of Cambodia’s mountainous landscapes.
