Halal Tourism (Cambodia)
Phnom Penh, April 18th, 2023 —
Mondulkiri, otherwise known as a the ‘Meeting of the Hills’, is located within the eastern highlands of Cambodia, and it is not only the country’s largest provinces, it is also the most sparsely populated and boasts a uniquely cool climate – in fact it can get chilly at night. From rolling grassy hills to pine forested mountains, dotted with tranquil rivers, gushing waterfalls and forested mountains, this is a wonderful place to get back to nature. Wildlife abounds thanks to local conservation efforts and sanctuaries, often coordinated from the quiet and humble town of Monorom.The fascinating indigenous Bunong people live here, and you have an opportunity to discover their culture, and befriend them through village visits.
Activities in Mondulkiri
Bousra Waterfall (Half Day)
Head to Bousra Waterfall, an iconic jungle waterfall that is set within a protected forest, which is home to a diverse array of wildlife! There are three sections to the waterfall: two high stages where the water flows from as high as 20 meters during rainy season, creating a double drop effect, which makes its middle part an ideal bathing and picnic spot. Local vendors sell drinks and snacks for those visiting this natural beauty. Feel the fresh spray as you get closer. If you’re feeling brave, you can even take a dip in the cold water! Nearby is Pichinda, a local Bunong village. The lower stage, which is the fastest, is not easily accessible due to the thick forest that encompasses it and where wildlife lurk.
(Half Day, Morning Private Activity & Transfer, which lasts 4 hours; If you have a preference for timing, please tell your travel consultant at the time of booking, otherwise our team will schedule the tour at the best available time; Fitness Level: Moderate as some trekking is required; Travel time to activity: 40 mins drive from Sen Monorom. Please bring sun protection.)
Half Day Visit to Elephant Valley Project
Experience the Elephant Valley Project, a sanctuary for retired captive Asian elephants that cares for them in their natural habitat. This NGO, founded by a pachyderm lover from Britain, has the well being of the elephant at its heart and is unique in its conservation style. You won’t be able to ride or swim with the elephants, or watch them do tricks, however you will get an opportunity to see them interacting with one another and highlighting their more natural behavior! It is up to the elephants if they wish to say hello to their human friends as they forage in their forest and grassland home, and throw dust and mud on themselves! The trained mahouts who take care of the gentle giants are from the local community. Instead of being hand fed, which can create a dependence on the human species and also cause unnatural stress, the elephants are encouraged to graze naturally or eat what is left on the ground for them to eat.
(Half Day, Morning Private Activity & Transfer, which lasts 4 hours; If you have a preference for timing, please tell your travel consultant at the time of booking, otherwise our team will schedule the tour at the best available time; Fitness Level: Moderate as some trekking through the muddy forest is required; Travel time to activity: 1 hour drive. Please bring sun protection.)
Half Day Visit to Bunong Tribal Village
Develop wonderful insights into the culture of the indigenous Bunong people of Mondulkiri Province with a delightful half day village tour. Organised by the non-governmental organisation Nomad RSI, its WEHH project ensures this local community improves their livelihoods and benefit from tourism. Your English-speaking local guide will highlight the aspects of the Bunong culture – from history and religion to preserved traditions. You will be taken for a short trek into an ancient Bunong forest. The Bunong people hold a very different culture from that of Cambodia’s Khmer people, particularly with regards to their language and religion. Witness daily life on a Bunong farm and observe the handicrafts that they hold dear.
(Half Day, Morning Private Activity & Transfer, which lasts four hours; If you have a preference for timing, please tell your travel consultant at the time of booking, otherwise our team will schedule the tour at the best available time; Fitness Level: Easy; Travel time to activity: 30 mins.)