This route follows one of Cambodia's most popular hiking trails. Khnong Phsar is a mountain peak on the border of Koh Kong and Kampong Speu provinces and is known for its beautiful mountain range views and large swathes of lush green grass. It has gained prominence as an eco-tourism destination particularly during 2020 and 2021 where domestic, nature-based tourism has become more popular.
The route begins at the eco-tourism station (Ranger station) where all hikers are required to register their trip with the local authorities. The first 7km (approx.) are relatively flat, leading through the village of Roleak Kang Cheung, and then along a dirt vehicle access track before arriving at a rest spot at the base of the mountain. Many hikers will opt to take a tractor cart for this section and begin their hike from the rest stop. More experienced hikers and trail runners will cover the entire route by foot. This FKT route begins and ends at the station.
After the main climb section, around 12-13km in, the route reaches a plateau area known as Khnong Sampov which is the usual camping area, and has a waterfall and stream. From this point, there is another 3km and 200m elevation to the summit, Khnong Phsar. Runners should touch the flag pole at the summit before descending back down. The route ends back at the ranger station.
An ascent route would also be an appropriate route variation.
All hiking and running attempts should carefully consider the weather and plan appropriately as the conditions on the mountain change rapidly and is considerably colder than is typical for Cambodia.
https://www.seeasiadifferently.com/cambodias-camping-site-knorng-psar/
Comments
I am intending to establish a self-supported FKT on this route in late July 2021.
To this point the route is predominately hiked, rarely run. Also at this time in the year there will be very wet, slippery conditions, so I hope there will be plenty of room for other athletes to improve this time come the drier seasons.