AKP Phnom Penh, July 16, 2025 --

Nestled within the lush expanse of Preah Suramarit-Kossamak Kirirom National Park, the Vipassana Centre, part of the Cambodian Buddhist Cultural Centre, has rapidly emerged as a unique destination.

It seamlessly blends profound religious practice with a tranquil ecotourism experience, drawing visitors seeking spiritual purification and serene respite amidst nature's embrace.

The visionary behind this initiative is H.E. Dr. Eang Sophalleth, Minister of Environment. His leadership has transformed the site into a beacon for promoting Buddhist philosophy and Cambodian culture, while simultaneously underscoring the vital symbiotic relationship between natural resources and daily human existence. The project's core aspiration is to cultivate inner peace and spiritual resilience through the tenets of Buddhist teachings, emphasising the pursuit of purity and mental clarity.

At the heart of the centre's offering is Vipassana, a meditation technique rooted in "insight into the true nature of reality." This practice guides individuals toward mental purification through meticulous self-observation. By engaging with Vipassana, practitioners are empowered to confront life's myriad challenges with newfound calmness and stability, effectively addressing and uprooting the sources of suffering from within.

Mr. Chanthet Thanoreak, Director of the Kampong Speu Provincial Department of Environment, highlighted the meticulous efforts undertaken to enhance the centre's aesthetic and ecological value. Over the past year, the department has diligently landscaped the area, introducing vibrant decorative flowering trees, including an array of peacock flowers, anticipated to reach their full, breathtaking bloom within the next two and a half years.

Complementing the natural beauty, educational signage promoting environmental protection has been strategically installed throughout the site, and the adoption of solar-powered lighting significantly reduces reliance on conventional energy sources.

Beyond its spiritual purpose, the centre's commitment to extensive tree planting and robust environmental conservation efforts provides tangible benefits. Visitors now enjoy not only a pristine environment but also abundant shaded areas, particularly conducive for those engaged in meditation. Indeed, visitors to Kirirom are not merely seeking leisure; many intentionally choose this mountain retreat for Vipassana, recognising that mental purification and inner calm are indispensable elements in their personal pursuit of peace.

The provincial department remains dedicated to upholding the site's spiritual and environmental integrity. Continuous efforts to enrich the area with additional flowering plants ensure its growing appeal as a serene and reflective destination for tourists.

Officially completed on May 19, 2024, the Vipassana Centre at Preah Suramarit-Kossamak Kirirom National Park now welcomes over 100 visitors daily. This diverse influx includes both international tourists and Cambodian citizens of all ages, all drawn to the profound tranquility of the natural surroundings and the opportunity to achieve mental clarity and inner peace through the practice of meditation.

Article in Khmer by Makara
Article in English by K. Rithy Reak