Jungle, wildlife, stunning scenery and 12 different ‘Khmer Loeu’ ethnic minority groups (’Khmer Loeu’ refers to all the various minority peoples of the different tribes) make this Cambodias “eco-tourism” capitol, Ratanakiri province has a real under developed “Indiana Jones” feel to it.

Banlung City is the provincial capital of Ratanakiri Province in Cambodia’s mountainous north-eastern corner. Heavily jungle and home to 12 different ‘Khmer Loeu’ ethnic minority groups, Ratanakiri province has a real edge-of-the-world feel to it.

Most visitors to Ratanakiri base themselves in Banlung City from where they make excursions/treks to Khmer Loeu villages and jungle areas, waterfalls, gem mines, and Ratanakiri’s famous Yeak Laom volcanic lake.

For nearby destinations a motor taxi or even driving yourself is relatively easy. But for more distant expeditions to Khmer Loeu villages, and into the jungle it is best to consult with your hotel/guesthouse for the latest information and conditions, and to arrange transport and guides.

Elephant trekking/rides 3 - hour - 1 day elephant treks to local waterfalls, can be arranged through your guesthouse/hotel. to consult with them for the latest information and conditions, and to arrange transport and guides.

‘Hill tribe’ people and villages Ratanakiri has a population of about 60,000 'Khmer Loeu' people. ('Khmer Loeu' refers to all of various minority peoples of the different tribes ) The Khmer Loeu are actually 12 different groups of tribal peoples, living in the jungle and mountains, still practicing many of their traditional ways including slash and burn agriculture, animism, traditional clothing and housing, etc.

Waterfalls

There are several local waterfalls. They are best during the rainy season when water volume is at its peak.

On your way to the local falls you will pass through rubber plantations and rural countryside. On most tours of the area: Cha Ong: 18 meter waterfall in the jungle. The rock behind the falls has been carved out by the action of the water, making it possible to walk behind the falls.

Yeak Laom Volcanic Lake

It is a 700,000 year old volcanic crater lake in a peaceful jungle setting in the Yeak Laom Commune Protected Area. The lake and the area are considered sacred by many of the Khmer Loeu peoples, and are steeped in local myth and legend.

There are a couple of docks on the lakeside and swimming and picnicking are encouraged. The lake is 800 meters in diameter and 47 meters deep, and is ringed by a 2.5 km.

INDEX:

• Remarks by Cambodian Prime Minister
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• Tourism in Kratie to increase
• ADB aid to Cambodia to fight flood, drough
• Six Mekong river nations vow more cooperation on natural resources
• The Government wants $10 Million for Tonle Sap Canal in Cambodia
• Tourist site in Ratanakiri Province

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