Yeak Laom Lake

What to See at Yeak Laom Lake

The Crater Lake

Formed in a long-extinct volcanic crater, Yeak Laom is almost perfectly circular and surrounded on all sides by dense primary forest — a striking contrast to Ratanakiri’s red-dirt roads elsewhere in the province. The water is clean, cool, and notably clear, with a wooden viewing platform and swimming area at the main entrance.

Tampuan Community Management

The lake is managed by the local Tampuan indigenous community, for whom it holds deep cultural and spiritual significance. A small visitor centre near the entrance displays Tampuan crafts and cultural information, and proceeds from the entry fee support community management of the site.

The Forest Loop Trail

A wooden walkway and forest path circle the lake’s rim, offering a quiet walk through primary rainforest with occasional clearings looking back down over the water.

How to Get to Yeak Laom Lake

The lake sits about 5km from Banlung, Ratanakiri’s provincial capital.

• By tuk-tuk or moto-taxi: 10–15 minutes from central Banlung
• By bicycle: A flat, manageable ride for travelers comfortable cycling on red-dirt roads

Best Time to Visit

Visit in the dry season (November–March) for the clearest water and easiest access — the dirt roads around Banlung can turn to mud in the wet season.

Practical Information

• Around $2 entry fee, supporting Tampuan community management
• Bring a swimsuit — swimming is the main activity, and changing facilities are available
• Life jackets are not provided; the lake is deep in the centre
• Small stalls near the entrance sell snacks, drinks, and local handicrafts

Nearby Attractions

Virachey National Park and Ratanakiri’s indigenous village programs are both organized out of Banlung, making Yeak Laom an easy first stop on a longer Ratanakiri itinerary.