Siem Reap: Kulen Waterfall, Banteay Srei, and Beng Mealea Tour

Exploring Cambodia’s Hidden Wonders: A Review of the Siem Reap: Kulen Waterfall, Banteay Srei, and Beng Mealea Tour

Imagine spending a full day uncovering some of Cambodia’s most captivating sites—with a comfortable ride, knowledgeable guides, and enough time to soak in the scenery. This tour, offered by Angkor Buddy Tour, promises to take you beyond the crowds at Angkor Wat, to discover lesser-known temples and natural marvels in the Siem Reap area.

What makes this adventure stand out? We love the personalized touch with small groups, the opportunity to visit off-the-beaten-path sites, and the chance to experience authentic local flavors during lunch. The expert guidance and stunning scenery are clear highlights, but it’s worth noting that the cost of entrance fees isn’t included, so budget accordingly.

One thing to keep in mind is the physical nature of some stops, especially the jungle-enshrouded Beng Mealea, which involves walking through uneven terrain. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mixture of history, nature, and active exploration, and those who want a balanced day without feeling rushed. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or private experience, options may be available, but this small-group tour packs a lot into one day.

Key Points

• Diverse Destinations: Combines cultural temples, natural waterfalls, and jungle adventures in one day.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 12 travelers for a more intimate experience and personalized attention.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Joe, who are passionate about Cambodia’s history and culture.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Air-conditioned transportation, bottled water, towels, and seasonal fruit to keep you refreshed.
• Transparent Pricing: Tour cost is competitive, but entrance fees for Banteay Srei, Beng Mealea, and Kulen Mountain are additional.
• Seasonal Variations: Waterfalls and Lingas carvings can look different depending on the season, adding a unique touch to each visit.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Early Morning Pickup and Scenic Drive

The day kicks off with a hotel pickup between 7:30 and 8:00 AM, in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. The roughly two-hour drive from Siem Reap to the Phnom Kulen area offers lovely views of the Cambodian countryside. It’s a good time to relax, get your camera ready, and maybe ask your guide about the sites ahead.

Banteay Srei: The Jewel of Khmer Architecture

Your first stop is Banteay Srei, approximately 25 kilometers north of Angkor Wat. This 10th-century temple, built of red sandstone, is famous for its exquisite carvings—considered among the finest in Khmer art. The intricate details, from Hindu mythological scenes to floral patterns, look almost like lacework.

Reviewers like Olivia praise the guide Joe for his passion and storytelling, which helps bring the carvings to life. You’ll have around an hour here to admire the craftsmanship and snap photos of the stunning structure. Remember, entrance tickets are not included, so you’ll need to purchase a $37 Angkor Pass onsite or online.

Preah Ang Thom: A Sacred Reclining Buddha

Next, a visit to Preah Ang Thom offers a more spiritual experience. This 8-meter-tall reclining Buddha, carved from a massive sandstone boulder, is a popular and revered site. Visitors often comment on the peaceful atmosphere and the busy local patrons, who come to pay respect.

The River of a Thousand Lingas

Following this, you’ll explore the ancient carvings along the riverbed—a narrow stretch where the walls are inscribed with lingas, yoni, and Vishnu. It’s a fascinating glimpse into early Hindu symbolism and water management practices. With only 25 minutes allocated, it’s more a quick walk-through, but the carvings’ detail and historical significance make it worthwhile.

Phnom Kulen Waterfall: Nature’s Refreshing Surprise

Mid-morning, the tour takes you to Phnom Kulen’s waterfalls, some of the most scenic parts of the national park. Depending on the season and rainfall, the waterfalls can be quite dramatic—up to 45 meters tall during the rainy season, and a favorite spot for visitors to cool off.

Expect to spend about 1.5 hours here, giving you enough time to enjoy a leisurely walk, snap photos, or even dip your toes in the refreshing water. Entrance fees to Kulen Mountain aren’t included, so plan for the $20 cash fee. Reviewers love the opportunity to see the waterfalls in different seasons, noting that the size and flow can vary considerably.

Lunch and the Hidden Temple of Beng Mealea

After the natural beauty, a local restaurant provides a chance to refuel. Depending on timing, lunch will be near either Beng Mealea or Banteay Srei, and it’s a great way to experience local flavors and relax before the afternoon adventures.

Beng Mealea: Cambodia’s Jungle-Overgrown Treasure

Your final stop is Beng Mealea, about 40 kilometers east of Angkor Wat. Built in the early 12th century, this temple remains largely unrestored, covered with vines and roots, giving it a wild, adventurous feel. It’s an excellent spot for those who love exploration and picture-perfect ruins. Guests often describe it as a hidden gem and a more authentic, less crowded alternative to Angkor.

The large scale, with collapsed galleries and entangled greenery, makes it ideal for wanderers. Expect about an hour here, exploring the atmospheric ruins. Entrance fees are not included, so you’ll need to buy a ticket onsite.

Return to Siem Reap

In the late afternoon, the comfortable vehicle takes you back to your hotel. The drive of roughly 1.5 hours allows you to relax and reflect on the day’s discoveries, arriving around 5:00 to 5:30 PM.

What’s Included and What’s Not: Making the Most of Your Budget

The tour’s price of $55 per person is quite reasonable considering the length, transportation, and guided expertise. Included are bottled water, towels, transportation, and a professional guide who’s passionate about sharing Cambodia’s stories.

However, important to note: entrance fees for Banteay Srei and Beng Mealea ($37 for the Angkor Pass), as well as Kulen Mountain’s entrance fee of $20, are paid separately. This means you should budget around $57 for these tickets alone, on top of the tour price.

Lunch, as well as any personal expenses, are also not included, so plan accordingly.

Transportation and Group Size

Travel is by air-conditioned vehicle, which keeps the comfort high during the approximately 9-10 hour day. The group is limited to 12 travelers, fostering a more intimate experience, where you’re less likely to feel lost in a crowd. Reviewers like Patrizia highlight the friendly and well-prepared staff that make the day enjoyable.

Timing and Flexibility

Pickup is scheduled between 7:30 and 8:00 AM, with exact times confirmed a day before. The tour’s timing seems well thought-out, balancing sightseeing with breaks, but it does involve some early starts and active walking.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour offers a fantastic combination of cultural sites and natural beauty—perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, well-rounded day in Cambodia. If you’re interested in less touristy temples, impressive carvings, and scenic waterfalls, this itinerary is an excellent choice. The guides’ enthusiasm and depth of knowledge elevate the experience, making it more engaging and educational.

It’s particularly suited for active travelers who enjoy walking and exploring outdoor sites, as some areas like Beng Mealea involve uneven terrain and jungle trails. For those on a tight schedule or wanting to see multiple highlights in one day, this tour delivers great value.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace, detailed private tours, or are sensitive to extra costs for entrance fees, you might consider alternative options. Still, for a balanced day curated with expert guidance, this trip offers a rewarding taste of Cambodia’s understated treasures.

FAQs

Do I need to purchase tickets in advance?
You can buy the Angkor Pass ($37) either onsite or online for the temples. Entrance to Kulen Mountain costs $20 cash, as credit cards aren’t accepted there.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. Pickup and drop-off at your Siem Reap hotel are also provided.

How long is the tour?
The full-day experience lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, starting early in the morning and returning around late afternoon.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a swimsuit if you want to swim at the waterfalls. Water and towels are provided.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
Most travelers can participate, but those with lower physical fitness might find some sites challenging due to walking on uneven terrain.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is scheduled with specific stops, but private options might be available upon request, especially for those seeking a more relaxed experience.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included but will be at a local restaurant. It’s a good chance to try Cambodian dishes.

What’s the group size?
Limited to 12 travelers for a more personal experience, fostering better interaction and guidance.

What’s the best time to visit?
The tour operates year-round, but be mindful that waterfalls and carvings can look different depending on the season.

How do I confirm my booking?
Booking confirmation is immediate, with final details sent a day before the tour.

This Siem Reap day trip strikes a great balance between adventure, culture, and natural beauty, making it ideal for those eager to see more than just Angkor Wat in a single day. With friendly guides, scenic drives, and unforgettable sights, it’s a worthwhile addition to your Cambodia itinerary.