Phnom Ta Mao – Wildlife Sanctuary and Cultural

Phnom Ta Mao, located in Tro Pang Sap village, Ba Ti District, Takeo Province, is a diverse tourist destination about 40 kilometers south of Phnom Penh. Just 45 minutes by car via National Road No. 2, it is one of Cambodia’s most popular day trips, offering a mix of wildlife conservation, ancient temples, and forest landscapes.

Natural & Cultural Setting

The site covers a vast 2,500-hectare protected forest area managed by Cambodia’s Department of Forestry. Within it, 1,200 hectares are dedicated to forest conservation, protecting local biodiversity. The area also features five small mountains, Phnom Ta Mao, Phnom Thmor Dos, Phnom Phdan Poan, Phnom Chhoy, and Phnom Bang.

Among these, Phnom Ta Mao and Phnom Thmor Dos are home to temples dating back to the 11th century under King Suryavarman I. Ta Mao Temple, perched on a 30-meter hill near Ta Mao Pagoda, was built of laterite and red brick and originally dedicated to Brahmanism, though today it stands mostly in ruins. Thmor Dos Temple, on a nearby 35-meter hill, is similarly dilapidated but continues to be a spiritually active site for worshippers.

Phnom Ta Mao Zoo

The highlight for many visitors is Phnom Ta Mao Zoo, Cambodia’s largest wildlife sanctuary. Covering 70 hectares, it houses 84 species of animals and birds, including around 150 mammals, 300 birds, and 30 reptiles. Many of these animals were rescued from illegal trafficking, making the zoo both an attraction and a conservation center. A team of 22 caretakers looks after the animals, with daily feeding costs averaging $120.

The zoo is especially popular with families and wildlife enthusiasts, attracting 500–600 visitors weekly and as many as 7,000–8,000 people during festivals. Its focus on education and conservation adds depth to the visitor experience.

Local Economy & Development Potential

Phnom Ta Mao also supports the local economy, as residents from surrounding communes sell food, drinks, and refreshments to tourists. Authorities see strong potential for further development, with proposals for improved access roads and integrated tour packages linking Phnom Ta Mao to nearby attractions like Tonle Bati. Plans also include a 6-kilometer eco-trail connecting the two sites, aimed at promoting trekking and eco-tourism.