Phnom Aural | Cambodia Province

Phnom Aural is the highest mountain in Cambodia, situated in the Cardamom Mountains of Kampong Speu Province.

It serves as a significant natural landmark and a destination for trekking and pilgrimage.

Visual Characteristics

Phnom Aural is characterized by dense tropical rainforest covering its slopes. The summit area is rocky, with exposed granite formations. The vegetation is thick, featuring a variety of trees, ferns, and mosses. The elevation reaches 1,813 meters (5,948 feet) above sea level.

Location & Access Logistics

The base of Phnom Aural is approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) northwest of Phnom Penh. Access is typically via National Road 4 towards Kampong Speu city, then continuing on provincial roads towards the village of Andong Tuek. From Andong Tuek, the trek to the summit begins. The final approach to the trailhead is often a rough dirt track, requiring a 4WD vehicle or a significant hike. There is no public transport directly to the trailhead; private car or motorbike hire is the primary method of reaching the starting point.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Phnom Aural is a natural geological formation, part of the Cardamom Mountain range, which is an ancient uplifted massif. The area is ecologically significant as a biodiversity hotspot, supporting a wide range of flora and fauna, including several endangered species. The mountain has also been a site of religious significance for centuries, with a small shrine located near the summit.

Key Highlights & Activities

The primary activity is trekking to the summit. The trail is challenging, involving steep ascents and descents, river crossings, and navigating dense jungle. The trek typically takes two days, with an overnight camp. Visitors can observe diverse plant and animal life. A small Buddhist shrine is located at the summit, often visited by pilgrims.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Basic amenities are limited. There are no developed facilities at the trailhead or on the mountain itself. Visitors must carry all necessary supplies, including food, water, and camping gear. Restrooms are not available. Cell phone signal is unreliable to non-existent for most of the trek. Shade is provided by the dense forest canopy. Food vendors are not present at the trailhead or on the mountain.

Best Time to Visit

The dry season, from November to April, is the most suitable period for visiting due to less rainfall and more stable trail conditions. The best time of day for photography is early morning, when mist may be present in the valleys, and the light is softer. High tide or low tide is not applicable to this mountain trek.

Facts & Legends

A local legend states that the mountain is guarded by spirits, and trekkers should show respect to the natural environment. A verified historical oddity is the presence of a small, ancient shrine at the summit, indicating long-standing human reverence for the site. A specific tip for visitors is to hire a local guide from Andong Tuek, as they possess essential knowledge of the trails and local customs.

Nearby Landmarks

• Kirirom National Park (25km Southeast)
• Chambok Waterfall (30km Southeast)
• Phnom TaMao Wildlife Rescue Center (80km Southeast)
• Tonle Bati (90km Southeast)