Ban Lung, Cambodia Plan a trip
Ban Lung is the capital of the Ratanakiri Province in Eastern Cambodia. Known by locals as ‘Dey Krahorm’, meaning ‘red earth’, the small town is surrounded by red dirt tracks and dense jungle. Ban Lung has an isolated, rural feel that attracts adventurers from across the globe – but much of the region remains untouched by tourism. From hill tribe villages and natural parks to lakes and waterfalls, there are plenty of undiscovered natural wonders waiting in Ban Lung.
Renting a motorbike is by far the best (and cheapest) way to get around if you’re confident! If you don’t feel brave enough to take on the dirt tracks alone, you can always flag down a motodop driver to take you from A to B.
A day-trip to Boeng Yeak Lom lake is a magical experience that’s not to be missed. Considered sacred by locals, the lake is three miles from the town and lies on the site of a 4,000 year old volcanic crater, surrounded by lush green rainforest. This is an ideal spot for swimming and bird spotting – and it’s so peaceful!
Also worth visiting on your trip are the region’s many waterfalls. Some are closer to the town, others more remote and ripe for trekking, such as Ka Tieng, where you can jump right in and enjoy a swim. One of the best things to do on your trip to Ban Lung is hire a local guide and visit the mining villages (the region is known for its gems) or a hill tribe cemetery. Some guides will even take you rafting or on a jungle trek.
No trip to Ban Lung is complete without a day spent at Virachey National Park. Here you might be lucky enough to spot Asian elephants, sun bears, cloud leopards and more, and there are plenty of track paths to hike. When you get back to town, check out Ban Lung’s lively market where you can find vegetables, fruit and forest produce from the region. On some days you may even see gems from the local mines.
We love Ban Lung for its super zen vibe, off-the-beaten-track location and its welcoming local people – you’re guaranteed to leave with a few new friends! Enjoy a relaxing trip here or use Ban Lung as a base for exploring the east of Cambodia.
Plan your trip to Ban Lung today.