I have a little confession: Kbal Chhay Waterfall wasn’t initially on my must-see list for Sihanouk Province. Since it’s a bit of a drive, I considered skipping it. But while exploring Bokor Hill Station, it was hard to ignore such a popular spot! So, I decided to check it out, and I’m so glad I did.
In this post, I’ll share my experience at Kbal Chhay Waterfall. Stick around for everything you need to know. Let’s dive in!
Location and Getting There
Kbal Chhay Waterfall is conveniently located just four miles from Sihanoukville, making it easily accessible by various modes of transportation.
By Car
I opted to drive, which is the most convenient way to explore Cambodia. Renting a car gives you flexibility and allows you to explore at your own pace. The road from town to Kbal Chhay is straightforward, with two main routes to choose from. Keep an eye out for the Green Jungle View along the way. Look for a small parking lot on the left side of the road; from there, it’s just a 200-meter walk to the waterfall.
By Bike
If you prefer biking, many do! Just be cautious; the road has some medium-sized potholes within the first few kilometers. And don’t forget your helmet!
Packing Essentials
For this short hike, good-quality hiking shoes are a must for comfort. Also, consider bringing a rain jacket for unexpected weather changes. Here are my personal recommendations for gear:
Shoes
- Quick Dry Barefoot Beach Shoes
- Quick-Dry Aqua Sock Barefoot
- Waterproof Hiking Sandals
Outfit
- For Men: Cargo Shorts & Quick Dry UV Protection Shirt
- For Women: UPF 50+ Tank Dress with Pockets
Raincoat
- For Women: Waterproof Long Hooded Raincoat
- For Men: Lightweight Waterproof Raincoat
Just a heads-up: Kbal Chhay Waterfall offers fantastic opportunities for nearby walking trails or ATV rides up the hill. It’s definitely something I plan to try next time!
Exploring the Routes to Kbal Chhay Waterfall
There are two main routes to the waterfall from Sihanoukville:
Route 1: The Right Way
This route begins on the highway and leads directly to the waterfall parking area. The road is a bit rough for about 3 to 4 kilometers, but it’s the primary route used by travelers, and it’s the one I recommend.
Route 2: The Wrong Way
This route starts at the port and leads to an unknown destination. Based on a friend’s experience, it’s not advisable. He tried using Google Maps but got lost due to the narrow road and poor weather. Although Google might suggest it, I’d recommend avoiding this route.
Things to Do
I loved every aspect of my trip to Kbal Chhay Waterfall—from the majestic waterfall itself to the thrilling water slides and stunning natural views. Here are a couple of highlights:
Water Slides
Don’t miss out on the water slides—they’re incredibly fun!
How It Works: After arriving at the parking area, head left to purchase a ticket for the water slides. Tickets are managed by Chinese staff who may not speak fluent English, so consider using Google Translate. The cost is $30 per person, and they sometimes provide voucher cards for future visits.
You’ll need to wear a safety suit and helmet for the slide, which starts from a lake and ends 1.5 kilometers away in a safety boat. It’s an exhilarating ride with some exciting drops. Plus, a photographer from their team will capture the fun, and you can purchase the photos afterward.
Shower Under the Kbal Chhay Waterfall
After enjoying the slides, we strolled over to the waterfall. It was a rainy day, and the falls looked even more stunning than in the summer.
We took a shower under the falls and snapped some memorable photos. There are photographers with DSLR cameras, but if you have your own, you might prefer to use it.
Safety and Family-Friendliness
I know some people may be nervous about visiting waterfalls, but Kbal Chhay is great for families. The paths are easy to navigate, and if you park at the main lot, it’s only a 5-minute walk to the viewing area. You can also enjoy some leisure time by the waterfall.
The Best Time to Visit
Kbal Chhay Waterfall is open from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Here are some tips to maximize your visit:
- Visit During Off-Peak Hours: Early mornings or late afternoons are quieter and offer better weather.
- After Heavy Rain: For a spectacular experience, visit after heavy rain to see the waterfall at its most impressive.
- Avoid the Dry Season: The waterfall may not be as beautiful during the dry season due to dust.
I visited in August, and while some areas were quiet, the waterfall was quite busy, even in the morning.
Cost Expectations
The great news is that Kbal Chhay Waterfall has no entrance fee! Visiting the waterfall is free, but keep in mind that nearby attractions like the water slides may have their own fees. Plan your budget accordingly if you intend to explore these spots.
Is Kbal Chhay Waterfall Worth the Trip?
Absolutely, without a doubt. Go and explore it for yourself!
Leave a Reply