Cambodia

Located about 6 kilometers from the Crab Market in Kep, Samathi Pagoda sits at the base of a hill overlooking Kep National Park. It is a magnificent Buddhist pagoda, often considered one of the most beautiful in the Kep region. Built in the heart of the jungle, this serene location is ideal for meditation, which is reflected in its name, meaning "place of meditation." Visitors interested in Buddhist culture, as well as nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts, will find this pagoda a rewarding stop during their travels in Cambodia.

Visiting Samathi Pagoda

Samathi Pagoda features a small entrance courtyard accessible via a straight staircase of 256 steps. On either side of the stairway, sculptures of Naga serpents follow the balustrades up to the courtyard, acting as guardians of the pagoda.

Under a distinctively Cambodian roof, the architecture of Samathi Pagoda rises alone and majestically amidst its lush natural surroundings. The yellow roof and white walls blend harmoniously with the vibrant green of the surrounding vegetation.

Perched at over 800 meters in elevation, Samathi Pagoda offers breathtaking panoramic views of Kep Bay, the national park, and the coastal areas. An observation platform is available, providing a stunning view of the sea—especially captivating at sunset, when visitors can capture one of the most beautiful photographic scenes of Kep.

This Buddhist institution houses a number of intriguing statues. Most of them depict or relate to Buddhist teachings or Khmer culture. For instance, statues of giant birds, known as Garuda, symbolize the protection of Cambodia’s borders—located about 40 kilometers away—from past Vietnamese military incursions. At the base of the entrance courtyard, visitors can find several golden sculptures of boats and unusual soldiers. On the balcony of the courtyard stands a statue of a deity with four faces.

The interior of the pagoda is meticulously maintained. It features a vast mural, numerous Buddha statues, and an altar. Vividly colored, intricate Buddhist engravings adorn the walls, creating a rich visual experience.

Due to its location, Samathi Pagoda has become a popular attraction for hikers exploring the challenging trails of Kep National Park. Some paths are quite steep, but the hiking conditions are good. To reach the pagoda, hikers can follow the "Samathi Trail," which diverges from the main park trail.

Still an active place of worship, Samathi Pagoda remains frequented by Buddhist monks. During your visit, you may encounter monks who watch over the site and occasionally take the time to explain Buddhist prayer and meditation practices to interested visitors.

How to get there

From the Crab Market in Kep, you can reach Samathi Pagoda by tuk-tuk or by renting a motorbike.

Visiting hours

Before entering the pagoda, visitors are required to remove their shoes.