Phnom Samkos

Facts

• Elevation: 1,759 m (5,771 ft)
• Prominence: 1,580 m
• Ribu category:  Kurang Tinggi
• Region:  Cambodia
• Coordinates: 12.1558, 103.0433
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• Other names: ភ្នំសំកុស
• World Ribus ID: 68533

Phnom Samkos is Cambodia’s second-highest peak, rising steeply from the western Cardamom Mountains within Phnom Samkos Wildlife Sanctuary. Some sources state 1,717m but this figure is definitely too low. Despite its slightly lesser elevation, it’s a tougher climb than Phnom Aural, primarily due to its remote and unmarked route along muddy tracks and informal animal trails rather than maintained paths. An experienced local guide is essential. Encounters with leeches are inevitable during the rainy season and likely at any time of year.

The usla approach is from the east at around 300m above sea level and along muddy, boggy tracks and with a river crossing near the start. Being much less popular, there are no formal campsites like on Phnom Aural but the spot most often used is at around 1,020m which is beyond a stream for water at around 980m. The logging road leads almost as far as the camp spot but anyone trying to get up here by motorbike will most likely have left their bikes down at 600m or lower, depending on the season.

Beyond this, expect wet, muddy trail conditions and slippery ground. The final approach to the summit is via the steep southern ridge and there is a stone marker at the very top. Most groups take 2–3 days to reach the summit and return, navigating dense undergrowth and occasional illegal logging clearings, but extra-fast hikers can just about manage it in a long and exhausting single day with the right local help. 

Wildlife spotting is excellent as these forests are home to the Cambodian Laughingthrush, Chestnut-headed Partridge, gibbons, macaques, elephants and occasionally gaur and serow in the deeper valleys. Bear scratches and fresh elephant signs have been reported in the area.

Practicalities

• • Getting there: From the city of Pursat (approximately 120 km), travel west to Pramaoy, then use local vehicles ideally with a guide to reach the forest access roads and trailhead.

• • Permits: Required and typically arranged in advance via your guide through forestry officials or local contacts in Pramaoy.

• • Water sources: A couple of streams but it’s definitely best to start with bottled water and boil any extra you use from streams.

Local Average Monthly Rainfall (in Phnom Penh)

Location