Phnom Khieu Waterfall

People travel from far and wide to swim in the fall’s cool, clear waters, while the surrounding rainforest is ideal for hiking and trekking (provided you are aware of land-mine danger and do not stray off any well-worn path).

The name Phnom Khieu means ‘Blue Mountain’ in the local dialect, which is believed to refer to the impressive size of this multi-tiered waterfall. After reaching the edge of the road, visitors will need to embark on a five-kilometer hike through the rainforest to reach the falls, which can be seen and heard from quite some distance away.

Despite its intense natural beauty, Phnom Khieu was also a scene of bloodshed during the late 1970s, as many members of the Khmer Rouge hid here, and those who were caught were killed in the rainforest and jungle. Still, this is now a place of great tranquility and few visitors could guess the horrors that took place here in the past.

A large number of different animals have made the rainforest their home, and visitors with a sharp eye may be able to spot cobras and pythons. Many people in Pailin offer to take tourists on tours of the rainforest - a good option for those who plan to venture off the beaten path a little.