Drive to Phnom Chhngok Cave Temple. travelling there on the winding dirt road, especially by motorbike, could be very tiring. However, passing past scenic views of the Cambodian countryside, featuring paddy fields, small farms and limestone formations, covered in dense vegetation, should suitably compromise. The mountain is a hulking limestone karst, which houses many hidden chambers, rocky outcrops and stalactites, formed by calcium carbonate solution. The largest cave is the home of an ancient red brick temple resting under a massive rock formation resembling an eagle. Phnom Chhngok Cave temple was probably erected during the 7th century, particularly within a pre-Angkorian era known as the Funan period in Cambodia.

Secret Lake or Brateak Krola Lake isn't really a lake at all. The secret lake is actually a dam. During the Khmer Rouge era, a dam was built with slave labor. It's a huge lake, especially for a man-made one. It is well worth the journey. This is the Cambodia we had hoped to discover.

After visiting Phnom Chhngok Cave temple, we continue our trip to visit Kampot pepper farm. It is the perfect place to learn the history of Kampot Pepper and understand how it is produced traditionally and organically. You will understand why Kampot Pepper has been elected as #1 Best Pepper in the world by chefs and foodies for more than a century.