In the Labansiek area (modern-day Banlung) of Ratanakiri Province, there is a large lake believed to be an ancient body of water, possibly of geological origin. Nestled among the hills, the lake has a round, bowl-like shape. Any traveler visiting Ratanakiri should not miss a trip to Yeak Laom Lake. Today, this area is known as Banlung, a charming town in northeastern Cambodia that captivates visitors with its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and serene atmosphere.
Upon arriving at Yeak Laom Lake, visitors often wonder about the origin of its unusual name. This curiosity leads many to inquire about its history, which is tied to a local legend passed down through generations. The name Yeak Laom can be roughly interpreted as "Surrounded by Yeaks," where “Yeak” refers to a mythical giant. The legend goes as follows:
Long ago, there was a powerful king of the Yeak (giant) kingdom. He had an exceptionally beautiful daughter whose hair and body emitted a pleasant fragrance every day. The king named her “Neang Sak Krahob” (Lady Fragrant Hair). When she came of age, a remarkably strong man fell in love with her and secretly seduced her. Fearing her father's wrath, the two lovers fled into a dense forest.
When the Yeak king discovered their disappearance, he was furious. He gathered his army of giants and flew in pursuit of his beloved daughter. Upon arriving at the forest, he suspected she was hiding there. He ordered his yeak soldiers to surround the forest, cut down trees, and dig in search of her. Despite their efforts, they could not find her. Eventually, the Yeak king gave up and returned to his kingdom. The place where they had dug and searched remained, eventually forming a lake that became known as Yeak Laom Lake—a name it retains to this day.
Yeak Laom Lake is known for its crystal-clear waters, reaching depths of more than 70 meters even during the dry season. It is approximately 1 kilometer in diameter, with a perfectly round shape. Around its banks, various native trees—such as mak preng, mak prang, savmaw, and siraman—grow in abundance, creating a stunning natural setting. The lake is home to several species of fish, and visitors can enjoy strolling along the surrounding pathways.
From a scientific perspective, researchers believe that Yeak Laom Lake is the result of an ancient volcanic crater that is now dormant. This theory explains the lake’s great depth (70–80 meters) and perfectly circular shape, surrounded by hills. Today, it is considered one of the most beautiful and popular natural tourist destinations in the region.
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