Ang Trapeang Thmor – A Birdwatcher’s Paradise 

Located in Banteay Meanchey Province, about 100 kilometers northwest of Siem Reap, Ang Trapeang Thmor is one of Cambodia’s most important wetland ecosystems and a premier destination for birdwatchers and ecotourism enthusiasts. Spanning more than 12,000 hectares, the sanctuary is not only a haven for rare and endangered species but also a serene escape for visitors seeking unspoiled nature and authentic rural landscapes.

Wildlife & Natural Features

The sanctuary is world-renowned for its birdlife. More than 200 bird species have been recorded here, including 18 globally or near-globally threatened species. The most iconic resident is the Sarus Crane, the tallest flying bird in the world, with over 300 individuals now thriving in the area thanks to conservation efforts.

Beyond birdlife, Ang Trapeang Thmor is also home to the critically endangered Eld’s deer, a species once widespread across Southeast Asia but now extremely rare. The sanctuary’s mix of wetlands, grasslands, and open plains provides a vital habitat for both migratory and resident species, creating a rich and balanced ecosystem that rewards exploration.

Best Time to Visit Ang TraPeang Thmor

The best time to visit Ang Trapeang Thmor is during the dry season (February–May), when large flocks of Sarus Cranes can be spotted feeding and roosting across the wetlands. However, birdwatching remains rewarding year-round, with different species appearing according to the season. 

For the best experience, plan your excursions in the early mornings or late afternoons, when wildlife is most active and the soft light enhances photography opportunities.

Conservation Importance

Declared a protected area in 1999, Ang Trapeang Thmor plays a vital role in preserving Cambodia’s wetland biodiversity. Conservation projects here focus on protecting endangered species, restoring natural habitats, and engaging local communities in sustainable tourism. 

By visiting the sanctuary, travelers directly support ongoing efforts that ensure this ecosystem continues to thrive as both a wildlife refuge and an educational site for ecotourism.

Visitor Experience & Getting There

A visit to Ang Trapeang Thmor offers a peaceful yet enriching experience. Guided birdwatching tours led by local rangers and conservation groups allow travelers to spot rare species while learning about the sanctuary’s ecology. 

Quiet exploration along the wetlands provides moments of solitude, where the only sounds are the calls of cranes, ducks, and other waterbirds. For photographers, the landscape offers dramatic compositions of wide horizons, reflective waters, and wildlife in motion.

From Siem Reap, the sanctuary can be reached in around two hours during the dry season and up to three hours in the rainy season, depending on road conditions. Travelers can choose between minibuses, private taxis, or motor taxis for the journey. 

Access to the deeper areas of the sanctuary often requires a 4WD vehicle, particularly during the rainy months when roads become muddy and difficult to traverse.