About Phnom Aoral
Cambodia's highest peak in the remote Cardamom Mountains. The multi-day trek through dense jungle requires local guides and river crossings.
Climbing Phnom Aoral: route, season and difficulty
- How long it takes
- 8–14 hours round trip, or two days using a mountain hut
- Do you need a guide?
- Not required if you are comfortable with exposed scrambling and mountain navigation, but a guide is a good call in poor visibility or early season.
- Best season
- Usually the local dry season — anytime outside the monsoon or rainy months.
- Terrain & gear
- Steep trails with scrambling, loose rock or short exposed sections. Helmet, sturdy boots, wind and rain shell, headtorch, and a via-ferrata set if the route is cabled.
📝 Martin's Personal Note
Phnom Aural — done back to back with Singapore in episode 12. Hot, humid jungle and wild boar. Actual peaks #19 and #20.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest mountain in Cambodia?
The highest mountain in Cambodia is Phnom Aoral, at 1,813 meters above sea level.
How long does it take to climb Phnom Aoral?
Allow 8–14 hours round trip, or two days using a mountain hut. Times vary with fitness, conditions and which trailhead you start from.
Can you climb Phnom Aoral without a guide?
Not required if you are comfortable with exposed scrambling and mountain navigation, but a guide is a good call in poor visibility or early season.
When is the best time to climb Phnom Aoral?
The usual season is the local dry season — anytime outside the monsoon or rainy months. Outside that window expect snow, storms or closed access.
What gear do you need for Phnom Aoral?
Helmet, sturdy boots, wind and rain shell, headtorch, and a via-ferrata set if the route is cabled.
How high is Phnom Aoral?
Phnom Aoral stands at 1,813 meters (5,948 feet).
Where is Phnom Aoral located?
Phnom Aoral is located in Cambodia, within the Cardamom Mountains.
Has Martin climbed Phnom Aoral?
Yes — Martin summited Phnom Aoral in 2023 as part of his country highpointing project.
Nearby highpoints of similar height
Highpointing lists to explore
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