Kbal Chhay Waterfall
A refreshing natural escape with cascading waterfalls and picnic spots, offering a tranquil retreat from Sihanoukville.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid crowds, enjoy tranquility
Kbal Chhay Waterfall
Best Time
Avoid crowds, enjoy tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A refreshing natural escape with cascading waterfalls and picnic spots, offering a tranquil retreat from Sihanoukville.
"Great scenery and a good place to swim and have a picnic if you so desire."
🚗 Road Conditions
Roads can be rough, especially after rain. Consider a bike or SUV for easier access.
💰 Small Toll Fee
Expect a small fee (around 500 Riel) to cross the bridge to the falls.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kbal Chhay Waterfalls
Prek Tuk Sap River
Cascading waterfalls offering a refreshing escape. Perfect for swimming and picnics.
River Exploration
Prek Tuk Sap River
Take a boat trip to discover local fishing villages and enjoy the scenic river views.
Picnic Spots
Near the waterfalls
Designated areas for relaxing and enjoying a meal amidst nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Kbal Chhay
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Road Conditions
Roads can be rough, especially after rain. Consider a bike or SUV for easier access.
💰 Small Toll Fee
Expect a small fee (around 500 Riel) to cross the bridge to the falls.
🚫 Avoid Weekends
Weekends are very crowded and can be noisy and less clean.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
There are food stalls, but bringing your own picnic is a great option.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Road Conditions
Roads can be rough, especially after rain. Consider a bike or SUV for easier access.
💰 Small Toll Fee
Expect a small fee (around 500 Riel) to cross the bridge to the falls.
🚫 Avoid Weekends
Weekends are very crowded and can be noisy and less clean.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
There are food stalls, but bringing your own picnic is a great option.
💧 Check Water Levels
Water flow varies; check if swimming is ideal before you go.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kbal Chhay Waterfall is a scenic natural spot offering swimming and picnic opportunities, praised for its accessibility and affordability. However, visitors strongly advise against weekend visits due to extreme crowds and potential cleanliness issues, recommending weekdays for a more peaceful experience. The road access can also be challenging, especially in the rainy season.
"The attraction site itself has developed quite well. But the entrance to the site from the national road is still in bad condition, especially in rainy seasons. There are holes and also quite slippery. Sedan might be a bit difficult to access, but still accessible."
Retty Chheang
"Easy to get to located on the Prek Tuk Sap River great scenery and a good place to swim and have a picnic if you so desire. Nice way to spend a bit of time out of Sihanoukville. We went on the river as well and visited a couple of fishing villages so all-inclusive thing with the falls it was a good day."
Ross Daniels
"Never visit this place on weekends, there are too many people, it is very noisy and dirty. Locals wash themselves with shampoos right in the river, and parents catch lice from their children right there. It looks disgusting. The whole area is polluted with garbage and the locals do not care at all. Very disappointed."
Mr. Fistov
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kbal Chhay Waterfall is located about 23 km north of Sihanoukville. You can hire a tuk-tuk or a taxi to get there. The journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes. Be aware that the road leading to the attraction can be in poor condition, especially during the rainy season, with potholes and slippery sections.
Yes, it is accessible by car, but sedans might find the road conditions challenging, particularly after heavy rain. SUVs or motorbikes are often recommended for a smoother journey.
Yes, there is a small toll fee, typically around 500 Riel (approximately $0.12 USD), required to cross the bridge that leads to the waterfalls.
For a day trip from Sihanoukville, hiring a tuk-tuk is a popular and convenient option. It allows you to combine a visit to the waterfall with exploring nearby fishing villages.
Yes, renting a motorbike is a viable option if you are comfortable with the road conditions. It offers flexibility and can navigate the rougher patches more easily than a car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the attraction itself is often described as free, there is a small toll fee to cross the bridge leading to the waterfalls, usually around 500 Riel.
Kbal Chhay Waterfall is generally open daily from morning until late afternoon. It's advisable to visit during daylight hours for the best experience and safety.
No, advance booking is not required for Kbal Chhay Waterfall. Entry is typically on a walk-in basis, with payment for the bridge crossing collected at the site.
The main restriction is the crowd size on weekends, which can detract from the experience. It's also important to be mindful of the environment and avoid littering.
Yes, Kbal Chhay Waterfall is a great spot for a short visit, especially if you're looking for a natural escape from Sihanoukville. You can easily spend a couple of hours here.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can swim in the river, have a picnic, relax by the water, and enjoy the natural scenery. Boat trips to nearby fishing villages are also available.
Swimming is generally safe in designated areas, but always exercise caution. Water levels and currents can vary.
Yes, there are some food stalls and small eateries at the site where you can purchase local snacks and drinks.
Bring swimwear if you plan to swim, a towel, sunscreen, insect repellent, and perhaps a picnic. Comfortable walking shoes are also advisable.
Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends, offering a more peaceful and enjoyable experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the cascading water, the lush greenery surrounding the falls, and the local life along the river. The bridge crossing also offers a scenic view.
While drone usage might be possible, always check local regulations and be mindful of other visitors. The natural landscape offers great aerial perspectives.
Early morning or late afternoon generally provides the best lighting for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
The bridge offers a good vantage point. Exploring the riverbanks can also lead to unique photographic perspectives of the falls and surrounding nature.
When taking boat trips, you can photograph the fishing villages. Always be respectful and ask for permission if photographing individuals up close.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key Advice: Visiting on a weekday is crucial to avoid the weekend crowds, which can be overwhelming and less conducive to a family-friendly atmosphere. Supervise children closely when they are near the water.
💰 Budget Travelers
Tip: Hiring a local motorbike or a shared tuk-tuk can be more economical than a private taxi. The natural beauty and swimming opportunities provide great value for money.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Terrain: Road Conditions and Access
Pro Tip: If you're not comfortable with rough roads, consider hiring a local driver who is familiar with the conditions. They can often navigate the terrain more effectively and ensure a smoother ride.
Alternative Access Methods
For those seeking a more adventurous route or if car access is a concern, motorbikes are a popular choice. They offer agility on uneven surfaces. Some visitors have also combined their trip to the waterfall with a boat tour on the Prek Tuk Sap River, which can offer a different perspective and access to nearby fishing villages.
Experiencing Kbal Chhay: Activities and Atmosphere
However, the atmosphere can drastically change depending on the day. Weekends are notoriously crowded with locals, leading to a noisy and potentially less pristine environment. This includes activities like washing with shampoos directly in the river, which some visitors found off-putting.
Best Practices for Enjoyment
To truly enjoy Kbal Chhay, visiting on a weekday is highly recommended. This allows for a more tranquil experience, where you can better appreciate the natural beauty without the overwhelming crowds. Bringing your own picnic is also a good idea to ensure you have your preferred food and to avoid potential issues with cleanliness or availability at the onsite stalls.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit