Cambodia: Caving in Phnom Chhngok Cave

One of the activities we enjoyed while we were in Kampot was the visit of Phnom Chhngok Cave.

Phnom Chhngok Cave

Phnom Chhngok Cave is a massive limestone karst, which contains many hidden chambers and stalactites, formed by calcium carbonate deposits in water. It is a little bit off the beaten track, about 8 kms from Kampot, at the end of an unpaved road. We hired a tuktuk to go there from Kampot. We went through miles of rice paddies and small villages until we arrived at the cliff.

Phnom Chhngok Cave

From the bottom, we climbed about 300 steps up the hillside. We were greeted by stunning views when we reached the top before we descended into the cave.

Taken from the top of the hill.

Phnom Chhngok Cave

The cave is beautiful. Inside the cave, there is a 7^th century red brick Hindu Temple dedicated to Shiva. Apparently, it was built before Angkor Wat. We also saw many amazing natural rock formations resembling an eagle, an elephant, a headless crocodile, a turtle, etc. Unfortunately, we didn’t have flashlights, so we didn’t do the submerged cave crawl out.

Phnom Chhngok Cave

Phnom Chhngok Cave

Certainly, it was such a bewitching experience – the view from the top, the walk to and from the temple and those gorgeous rock formations. Plus, it was a great way to see the countryside. If you are in the area, a visit to Phnom Chhngok Cave is a must.

Phnom Chhngok Cave

Have you been to Phnom Chhngok Cave? What did you like best there?

Little Lilly travel tip:

• Bring a head torch if you wish to cave-crawl.
• Wear good shoes.
• Bring some mosquito repellent.
• The entrance fee is $1.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Review: Luna D’Autunno Restaurant in Phnom Penh

For the finest of Italy in Phnom Penh, we always go to Luna D’Autunno Restaurant. It is one of our favorite restaurants in the city as it is a very soothing place and to us it is a little oasis from the bustle and hustle of the city.

We’ve been there several times (since 2011) and we’ve never been disappointed; hence, I decided to write a review.

Luna D’Autunno

Luna D’Autunno

We love its great romantic ambience – gorgeous fairy light lit spacious courtyard under large trees coupled with good music; friendly staff; and the polite and timely service.

@Luna D’Autunno

@Luna D’Autunno

It serves a really luscious food, all made with fresh ingredients and lots of cheese. We’ve always loved their good selection of wine, homemade pasta, and wood fired pizza.

Lasagna

yummy pizza!

Calzone

Tuna Salad

wood fired oven

Furthermore, the desserts especially the Trio of Creme Brulee, made our evening more special. It’s of outstanding quality and just so delicious.

Trio of Créme Brûlée

We also enjoy their complimentary eggplant antipasto and bread.

eggplant antipasto

fresh bread

sauce

Certainly, we will happily be returning there again since we are happy about the place and we always had relaxed and romantic evenings every time we went there.

Have you been to Luna D’Autunno? What did you like best there?