Pailin is a frontier / gem and mining town that lies on the fringes of Cambodia’s Battambang Province near the border with Thailand. The isolated region boasts a few natural resorts and ancient temples, though most of the allure is outside Pailin’s city limits.
Pailin’s success has been centered on gems rather than on tourism, so visitors will find little infrastructure in this dusty city and not much in the way of hospitality. Often likened to a “Wild West” frontier outpost, Pailin is most likely to be of interest to travelers with a strong, independent spirit, who have the time to venture here from nearby Battambang.
Pailin, the eponymous capital of the province, played a greater role in Cambodia’s recent history than in its ancient past: while Dambang Kruniung, the legendary ruler of Battambang fame was told to come from Pailin, in the 20th century the region was a key Khmer Rouge stronghold during and long after Cambodia’s civil war.
Holed up in the remote, mountainous province, the Khmer Rouge funded their war effort with logging and mining from resource-rich Pailin and did not formally surrender until around the turn of the 21st century, when the province officially broke away from Batdambang. The 30-year battle for control of the region (and its wealth) resulted in a heavily land-mined countryside that, to some degree, served to protect a number of exotic wildlife species including cobras, pythons, and various birds.
It is possible to arrange excursions into the surrounding countryside, including Phnom Khieu Waterfall, located around 20kms to the south of Pailin, and the Samlout Protected Area. Be advised that tour guides are essential when traveling off the beaten path as land mines are still a problem in Cambodia’s remote countryside.
The sole attraction in Pailin city is a Wat Phnom Yat cresting the local hill. There is also an interesting cross-border trade between neighboring Thailand that includes some fine wood furniture.
Where to Go
- Wat Phnom Yat: A revered hilltop temple offering panoramic views of Pailin, rich in Buddhist significance and known for its peaceful atmosphere.
- Phnom Khieu Waterfall: A serene waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for a refreshing swim and relaxation in nature.
- Samlaut Multiple Use Area: A protected area of diverse ecosystems, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing, hiking, and exploring Cambodia’s natural beauty.
- Pailin City: A very remote, frontier town near the Thai border, known for its gem mining history, lush landscapes, and proximity to scenic natural attractions.
Getting There
There’s no convenient way to get to Pailin. The easiest access is to cross from the Thai border, if you are in that part of Thailand, by road from Batdambang, or by flying to Siem Reap then catching a bruising bus through Batdambang. Intrepid travelers with a love for undeveloped ancient temples may enjoy exploring this remote backwater of Cambodia.