Varin District

OVERVIEW

Located in the far north of Siem Reap, bordering Oddar Meanchey Province, this is probably the most remote of all the districts. It is a mountainous district and this has helped to preserve the forest in some areas, particularly Chang Kran Roi, which is an up and coming ecotourism destination in Varin. Attractions here include a small waterfall, diverse birdlife, irregular rock formations and jungle treks. It is possible to camp overnight near the waterfall and see the varied birdlife at first light. Rangers can provide meals for adventurous guests wanting to get away from it all. In time, it may be possible to connect Varin and Angkor Thom districts via a trek across Chang Kran Roi.

Beyond Chang Kran Roi, the attractions are limited to Prasat Kiri San, an old Angkorian temple that has an atmospheric location amid some towering trees. The small economy is predominantly agricultural and includes rice production and the farming of livestock.

Population: 49,369

Communes: 5

Villages: 25

Area: 1098 sq km

Population Density: 45/sq km

District Capital: Srea Nouy

NATURES

Chang Kran Rouy

This is a remote protected forest; it still has a mix of old growth and new growth forest remaining. Attractions here include an attractive river with small waterfalls and a picnic area, as well as some impressive rock formations in the jungle that are similar to those found at Phnom Kulen. Chan Krohorm has some strange rock formations that look similar to a lava field, as well as the chankranroi that gives the area its name. Current services available include bird-watching, picnic sites, overnight camping and trekking in the area.

Address
Baydot Village,
Svay Sar Commune, Varin District
Telephone
+855 (0) 71 4964267 / +855 (0) 88 84 68 661

Krapeu Pram Lakeside

Address
Kanchornrun Village,
Prasat Commune, Varin District.
Telephone
088 522 6483
E-mail and Website
mut.kim27@gmail.com

TEMPLES

Prasat Chan Kiri

This is an old Angkorian temple located on the road to Chan Kran Roi. While it is not a major attraction in itself, with the temples of Angkor more spectacular and closer to Siem Reap, it makes for an atmospheric place to stop en route to or from Chan Kran Roi as a way to break up the long journey.