Among them are a crystal clear lake on a dormant ancient volcano, waterfalls, scenic rivers, rolling hills and pristine jungles. In addition this mountainous province is home to 12 ethnic minority groups.
Most visitors to Ratanakiri start their trips from Banlung. The town, which does not see many tourists, has friendly atmosphere and offers some restaurants and decent budget guesthouses.
Beong Yeak Lom Volcano Lake
Only 5 kilometers southeast of the capital city of Banlung, Beong Yeak Loam is a picturesque lake sitting on a large crater on top of an ancient dormant volcano. Set amid a pristine peaceful jungle, this 700,000-year old lake is revered by a nearby hill tribe community of Khmer Loeu who believe there are mysterious creatures inhabiting the lake. The lake, which is about 50 meters deep and 800 meters in diameter, has very crystal clear water with visibility of up to 5 meters.
The lake area is good for swimming and picnicking. The Cultural and Environmental Center provides the information about the history of the area and exhibit local hill tribe artefacts such as tools, musical instruments and belts – some of them are for sale. There is also a 2.5 km hiking trail around the lake rim.
Waterfall sites
There are several waterfalls in the province. Some are difficult to access while some are dry during the summer. The waterfalls commonly visited are Kachang, Katieng, Ou'Sean Lair and Cha Ung Waterfall.
Kachang waterfall is only 6 kilometers north of Banlung. The 12-meter high waterfall has water all year round with its stream flowing into the Sre Pok River. It is set in a magnificent landscape of lush green forest. The pool in the waterfall area boasts a good place for swimming.
Katieng Waterfall is located in the Koutung Stream, below the Kachang Waterfall, northwest of Banlung. Standing at 10 meters high, the fall is full of water throughout the year.
Ou'Sean Lair Waterfall is about 26 kilometers south of Banlung. The waterfall has 4 tiers with nearby pools suitable for swimming.
Cha Ong is the most spectacular waterfall in the province. Located about 8 kilometers west of Banlung, the fall is set in a gorge covered by a lush jungle. Visitors can clamber behind the cascade for a refreshing powerful shower.
Eisey Patamak Mountain
About 1 km east of Banlung is a Buddhist temple that houses a large reclining Buddha statue. The temple, known as Wat Rahtanharahm ('Wat Aran'), is located at the base of Eisey Patamak Mountain. The Buddha statue is placed on hilltop overlooking a beautiful view of the surrounding countryside.
Getting to Banlung
The best way to go to Banlung is by plane. Presently, PTM Air operates flights to Banlung two or three times per week. The flight lasts about 1 hour. The airport is only 5 minutes from the town center.
Overland journeys between Phnom Penh and Ratanakiri are possible but require at least 2 days before getting to Banlung. The road trip is not recommended in the wet season due poor road conditions.
