Viewing green forest from Phnom Bai Chow in M’kiri
PHNOM PRICH Wildlife Sanctuary, which covers 2,225sq km of forest, was designated as a protected area by royal decree in 1993. It is a diverse area of rainforests, mountainous pastures, sparse forests and wet grass fields.
Looking down at the forest from an overlook allows visitors to take in the majestic sights and see the valley as a sea of greenery.
Located along National Road 76, from Mondulkiri to Ratanakkiri province, the sanctuary is some 10km from Sen Monorom town. The overlook at Phnom Bai Chow mountain is just six months old and has quickly grown into a place for travellers to take photos and view the Kingdom’s untouched beauty.
Len stands at the gates of this wonderful spot taking tickets and giving change. Despite having only one arm, this war veteran zips through his motions and welcomes tourists to the overlook with a smile.
Standing in his old uniform, he explains that he lost his arm during factional fighting in 1997. Recounting visitor numbers from memory he says: “Sometimes we receive 50,000 riel ($12.25) per day. Yesterday we got 100,000 riel. But I do not take the money and put it in my pocket.”
Len, who was hired by the resort’s owner, said many tourists had visited the site this month. He expected next month’s Pchum Ben festival to be a popular time for travellers.
In addition to the lookout, Phnom Bai Chow resort hosts a restaurant to provide food for guests who wish to stop for a meal.
There’s plenty to do within the sanctuary as well. Len noted that those looking for more adventures could travel 1km down to the forest and pose with traditional huts.