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Ratanakiri at a Glance

What Ratanakiri Is Famous For

Indigenous hill tribes Jarai and Brao peoples, Yeak Laom volcanic crater lake, elephant trekking, gem mining, and pristine highland jungle

Famous Places and Attractions

Yeak Laom Volcanic Crater Lake, Virachey National Park, Veun Sai-Siem Pang Conservation Area, indigenous village homestays, Kachanh Waterfall

Tourism

~80,000 visitors/year

Food and Local Cuisine

Bamboo tube sticky rice, grilled wild boar, river fish cooked in bamboo, jungle greens with fermented fish, Jarai-style rice wine, wild honey

History of Ratanakiri

Ratanakiri is home to numerous indigenous Khmer Loeu peoples including the Jarai, Brao, Tumpoon, Kreung, and Kavet. The province was a major battleground during the Vietnam War with both North Vietnamese supply routes and American bombing campaigns affecting the area. The Khmer Rouge drew significant support from indigenous communities early in their movement. Land concessions for plantations have threatened indigenous lands sparking ongoing advocacy.

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