1. Angkor Wat Loop
Distance: Approximately 40km
Start/End: Siem Reap
Highlights: This iconic loop around the Angkor Wat temple complex combines historical exploration with the thrill of off-road cycling. Riding at dawn to catch the sunrise over Angkor Wat is an experience like no other.
2. Phnom Kulen National Park
Distance: About 50km
Start/End: Siem Reap
Highlights: A challenging climb to the sacred mountain of Phnom Kulen rewards cyclists with stunning waterfalls, ancient carvings, and a panoramic view of the surrounding jungle.
3. Cardamom Mountains Trail
Distance: Variable, up to 180km
Start/End: Battambang to Koh Kong
Highlights: One for the more adventurous, this route takes you through one of Southeast Asia’s last great rainforests, offering breathtaking views, challenging terrain, and the chance to spot rare wildlife.
4. Tonle Sap Lake Circuit
Distance: Approximately 100km
Start/End: Siem Reap
Highlights: Circumnavigate the vast expanse of Tonle Sap Lake, experiencing authentic floating villages, abundant birdlife, and the vibrant local culture along the lake's shores.
5. Kampot Pepper Route
Distance: About 30-60km
Start/End: Kampot
Highlights: Explore the famed pepper plantations of Kampot on routes that offer scenic views of lush fields backdropped by Elephant Mountains and the opportunity to learn about pepper cultivation from local farmers.
6. Mekong Discovery Trail
Distance: Various sections, up to 180km in total
Start/End: Kratié to the Lao border
Highlights: Follow alongside the mighty Mekong River, visiting remote islands, traditional villages, and possibly spotting the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins.
7. Preah Vihear Temple Route
Distance: Approximately 100km
Start/End: Sra Em
Highlights: A more remote adventure leads to the spectacular Preah Vihear Temple, perched atop a 525-meter cliff in the Dangrek Mountains, offering extraordinary views and an insight into Cambodia's ancient grandeur.
8. Bokor Mountain Challenge
Distance: About 25km (one way)
Start/End: Kampot
Highlights: A steady climb up the old French hill station of Bokor Mountain provides not just a physical challenge but also eerie encounters with colonial ruins and sweeping views of the Cambodian coastline.
9. Chi Phat Community Eco-Tourism Circuit
Distance: Various, up to 50km
Start/End: Chi Phat
Highlights: Immerse yourself in conservation efforts and untouched wilderness in the heart of the Cardamom Mountains, engaging with local community projects and exploring pristine trails.
10. Banlung Jungle Loop
Distance: About 60-80km
Start/End: Banlung
Highlights: This rugged loop through Ratanakiri Province takes riders deep into Cambodia’s “red dirt” country, offering up close encounters with remote tribal villages, hidden waterfalls, and volcanic lakes.
Conclusion
Cambodia’s gravel cycling routes offer more than just physical challenges; they are pathways to understanding the country’s soul, from the echoes of ancient civilizations to the rhythm of rural life. Each route promises a unique blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, making Cambodia a must-visit destination for gravel cycling enthusiasts seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences. Remember, the best adventures are those approached with respect for local communities and ecosystems, ensuring these trails remain vibrant for generations to come.
Cycling Indochina: Vietnam to Cambodia Adventure Trip