Lum Kut Lake is the other volcanic lake in Ratanakiri Province (the primary one is Yeak Laom Lake).
Practically unvisited by anyone other than local villagers, this heart-shaped lake is slightly larger than the more accessible and popular Yak Laom Lake, though its nearly as beautiful, particularly after the rainy season, when the vegetation surrounding it is green and lush.
Getting There
Lum Kut Lake is located in Bo Keo district, Ratanakiri province, about 40 km (25 miles) from National Road No.78. During the dry season, the lake is quite accessible by car or motorbike, while in the rainy season only 4-wheel-drive vehicles and off-road motorbikes are able to complete the journey. The turnoff to Lum Kut is about 3 ½ miles (5km) past Bo Keo; the lake is about 14 miles (23 km) south along this road. Its a little tricky to find on your own though, so your best bet is to arrange a visit with your guesthouse or hotel.
Need to Know
- What is It?: A crater lake formed by volcanic activity hundreds of thousands of years ago.
- When to Go: The lake is enjoyable year round, though in the rainy season, particularly August and September, you may not get enough sunshine to truly enjoy the lake. December through March has the nicest weather.
- Nearest Town: Bo Keo, Ratanakiri: 14 miles (23km).
Ban Lung, Ratanakiri: 25 miles (40km) Ban Lung is about 3-4 hours east of Stung Treng. The bus ride from Phnom Penh to Ban Lung goes via Stung Treng and takes around 12 hours. * Don’t Miss: Swimming in this amazing volcanic crater lake. Lum Kut volcanic crater lake and Lumphat, the former capital of Ratanakiri Province, can be combined as part of a day trip, particularly via off-road motorbike. * Trivia: The lake was formed by volcanic activity around 700,000 years ago! * Opening hours: always open * Entrance fees: none