SummitAural Climbing Adventures
Experience breathtaking views and thrilling climbs. Link to video.
Hiking Information & Guidelines
Trail Overview
- Distance: ~18 km round trip
- Duration: 2 Days 1 Night (recommended) or 3 Days 2 Night
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Best Season: November – April (Dry Season)
- Elevation: 1,813 meters (5,948 feet)
- Location: Kampong Speu Province
0 to 1: Bamboo trail
- Access: Begin your adventure with an early morning ride on a traditional wooden tractor, transporting you through scenic landscapes to the mountain’s base.
- Trail Description: This segment is a gentle hike through a lush bamboo forest. The path is mostly flat, and accessible to hikers of various fitness levels. Fallen bamboo leaves might be slippery. Slight elevation gain approaching checkpoint 1 (Wat Phnom Aural).
- Elevation: ~400m at Wat Phnom Aural.
- Distance: ~2 km
1 to 2: Dense tropical forest
- Trail Description: Beyond Wat Phnom Aural, the trail becomes more challenging. Encounter steeper inclines delving into a dense tropical forest with towering trees and thick bushes. Certain sections are equipped with ropes to aid hikers. Be prepared to navigate over fallen trees and under dense foliage, requiring occasional climbing and bending.
- Elevation Gain: ~850 from checkpoint 1 to campsite 2
- Distance: ~3.8 km
2 to Summit: Montane forest
- Trail Description: The final ascent begins predawn; hence, carrying a reliable headlamp or torch is essential. Expect low temperatures and strong wind before dawn. The initial trail from the campsite involves a steep climb through dense montane forest, which then levels out for the last kilometer leading to the summit.
- Elevation Gain: ~563m from campsite 2 to summit
- Distance: ~3.2 km
Campsites and checkpoints
📍 Mount Aural is in Kampong Speu, ~120 km from Phnom Penh.
Travel Options:
- 🚌 Public Transport: Bus/minivan + motorbike/truck to base camp.
- 🚗 Private Car: ~3-4 hours drive. 4WD recommended.
🏕️ Base Camp
- Sleeping Arrangement: Basic wooden huts and tents
- Toilet and shower: Simple toilet; river shower
- Meals: Home-cooked Cambodian dishes
- Electricity: No power socket; bring power banks
- Drinking water: Purchase bottled water
🚶 Checkpoint 1
- Toilet: Simple toilet with stored water
- Meals: Lunch stop, packed by local guide
- Facilities: Table and stools
⛺ Campsite 2
- Sleeping Arrangements: Tents on wooden platform
- Toilet and shower: Simple toilet; stream water
- Meals: Simple food cooked by guide
- Electricity: None
- Drinking water: Bring your own
🏔️ Summit
- Toilet: None
- Meals: Breakfast packed by guide
- Facilities: Wooden platform and small hut
Hiker’s Must-Know & Preparation Guide
- Hiking boots – Good grip for muddy, uneven terrain
- Hat & sunscreen – Protect from sun exposure
- Sandals– For comfort and convenience when resting at the campsite and taking shower
- Gloves – Protect your hands when supporting yourself
- Clothes and toiletries – To refresh yourself at the checkpoints and campsites
- Backpack – Lightweight but spacious enough for essentials
- Water (3L per person per day) – No guaranteed clean water sources on the trail
- Snacks & energy bars – For quick energy boosts
- Headlamp/flashlight – Essential for early morning hikes and night stays
- Rain gear – The weather is unpredictable
- Trekking poles – Helpful for steep sections
- Bug spray – Protection against mosquitoes and ticks
- Medication and basic first aids – In case of emergency and minor injuries
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How difficult is the hike?
It’s a moderate to difficult trek. Expect long hours of walking, steep sections, and potentially muddy trails.
When is the best time to hike?
- Dry season (November – April) is ideal for clearer trails and views.
- Rainy season (May – October) makes the trail more challenging but is great for lush scenery.
How long does the hike take?
It takes around 7 hours to reach the summit from the entrance (~9km). The minimum 2 days 1 night trek is recommended. However, 3 days 2 nights hike allow for better experience!
Are there any water sources on the trail?
Water for washing is available at Checkpoint 1 and Campsite 2. For drinking purposes, hikers are advised to bring at least 3 liters of bottled water for each day.
What kind of food is provided?
Local guides usually prepare rice, grilled meat (fish, pork, beef), and soup for the hike. If you have dietary restrictions, inform your guide in advance.
What are the accommodation options?
- Base camp: Tent under wooden hut
- Campsite 2: Tent on wooden platform
Is there mobile signal on the mountain?
Signal is weak or nonexistent at higher altitudes, so inform someone of your plans before hiking.
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