Banlung is one of the concealed wonders of Cambodia with its sparsely populated wilderness and age-old red soil. The alluring environment of this city comprises attractive landscapes, glittering crater lakes, astonishing waterfalls, delightful Buddhist temples, and fascinating jewel-producing mines.

Banlung can amaze tourists with its splendid collection of precious stones such as onyx, amethyst, peridot, and brown zircon. The city also lures in birdwatchers and nature fanatics thanks to the magnificent creatures that spend time around its countryside. Let us riffle through this travel guide to understand why Banlung is an upcoming tourism hotspot in Cambodia.

By Road:

Roadways form the only possible means of reaching Ban Lung's beautiful countryside. Tourists can either opt for local bus transporters, hire a private taxi, or share a minibus to get into the city from neighboring hubs of Cambodia like the capital city. While a bus ride proves inexpensive with a meager cost of around 8 USD, a luxurious taxi journey would cost approximately 120 USD for visitors coming in from Phnom Penh.

Banlung experiences mellow weather with negligible rainfall precipitation every once in a while. The climate in the city usually alternates between 28°C and 38°C. Let us look at how the two seasons in Banlung, wet and dry season attract tourists.

Dry Season (October to Early May):
Banlung's dry season experiences a temperate climate with temperatures usually fluctuating between 29°C and 38°C. The period between November and March forms the best time of the year to discover the exciting tourist spots within the city. Tourists who venture into Banlung during the dry season find the weather apt for relaxing at the banks of Yeak Laom Volcanic Lake or trekking through the wilderness.

Wet Season (Early May to September):
The wet season in Banlung experiences considerable precipitation of rainfall with temperatures alternating between 18°C and 26°C. With excessive rain turning the city into a lush green haven, visitors find solace while resting beside the stunning waterfalls of the city. Enjoyable trekking expeditions through the dense forests of the nature reserves of Banlung await adventurous tourists.

Land of Remarkable Waterfalls:
Banlung only fits the status of a "Waterfall Reservoir" thanks to its impressive collection of waterfalls across its expanse. Some of the fabulous waterfalls here include Chaa Ong Waterfall, Ou'Sean Lair Waterfall, Ou Senmonorom Waterfall, Ka Chann Waterfall, and Ka Tieng Waterfall. These waterfalls are set against the backdrop of exuberant countryside viewpoints and form perfect picnic sites for tourists.

Exciting Wilderness Trails:
The tropical forests spreading across Banlung's expanse prove apt for several adventurous ventures. Tourists can pick and choose between hiking or trekking trails, bicycle rides, or motorcycle trips through these serene jungle vicinities. For those who wish to try out lavish travel options, local groups also organize unique land cruiser rides through Banlung's jungle terrain.

Picturesque Nature Parks:
Banlung is blessed with a beautiful collection of dense jungles and eye-catching landscapes across its extent. Some of the magnificent nature reserves that thrive across this countryside include Lumphat Wildlife Sanctuary, Norng Kabat Forest, and Virachey National Park. Tourists can either take up night camping at lakeside or day trips to spot creatures such as tigers, elephants, bears, hornbills, gibbons, peacocks, butterflies, and wild pigs.

Sal's Restaurant and Cafe Alee form two of the most popular restaurants in the whole of Banlung. While Cafe Alee is perfectly placed in the tourism hub of the city, the former is seated on the other end of the town. Visitors can enjoy splendid Khmer cuisine at these hotels along with a touch of vegetarian dishes and delicious lasagne. The Green Carrot is another famous hotel that offers nourishing salads, wraps, and sandwiches. Other options in the vicinity include relishing splendid coconut shakes at the Coconut Shake Restaurant or enjoying some homestyle pasta with sunset in the backdrop at Pteas Bay Khmer.

The Phsar Banlung Market forms the prime shopping hub for both tourists and the locals of Banlung. The Khmer tribal people also earn their livelihood by selling forest produce, vegetables, and fruits at this market. Phsar Banlung Market has several food stalls lined up across its expanse along with souvenir shops that offer apt relics to take home from the trip. Tourists can take back with them intriguing handmade artwork, religious antiques, and hardware. Tourists can also savor their taste buds by buying some locally found fish to feast on for dinner time.