Kullen Waterfall Park with Small Group included entrance fee

Exploring Phnom Kulen Waterfall Park: A Detailed Review of the Full-Day Adventure

If you’re seeking an experience that combines natural beauty, cultural insights, and a touch of history, the Kullen Waterfall Park tour from Siem Reap offers just that. While we haven’t personally joined this trip, the reviews and detailed itinerary reveal an experience packed with memorable moments — from stunning waterfalls to ancient Khmer relics and a heartfelt landmine museum visit.

What stands out most? The small-group setting promises a personal vibe, the knowledgeable guides bring history alive, and the diverse stops promise a full immersion into Cambodia’s natural and cultural landscape. That said, with a full day packed into around 8 hours, there’s a lot to fit in, so travelers should be prepared for a busy but rewarding itinerary.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of outdoor adventure, cultural discovery, and authentic local experiences without feeling rushed. If you’re curious about Cambodia’s history, love scenic views, and enjoy meaningful excursions, this could be your ideal day out.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Insights: Visit ancient Khmer monuments like the One Thousand Lingas and the reclining Buddha, gaining a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s spiritual heritage.
• Natural Wonders: The standout highlight is the Kulen Waterfall, where you can cool off and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
• Impactful Stops: The Cambodian Landmine Museum offers a poignant look at the country’s recent history and ongoing recovery.
• Small-Group Experience: Traveling with a maximum of 13 people ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Value for Money: At $45 per person, the tour includes all entrance fees, transportation, water, and towels, making it a comprehensive and cost-effective day out.
• Guided Expertise: Guides like Chout and Makara are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and willingness to share local insights.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure kicks off early at 8:30 am from the central meeting point near the Angkor Night Market in Siem Reap. You’ll be traveling in an air-conditioned Loumson minivan, which is a great perk, especially on hot days. The vehicle ensures comfort for the approximately 65 km journey north of Siem Reap, a route that takes you through lush Cambodian countryside.

Because the group is capped at just 13 travelers, you’ll avoid the chaos of larger tours and get more personalized service. Guests report that the driver is prompt, courteous, and always ready to cool you down with air conditioning, which makes a difference when the temperature rises.

Phnom Kulen National Park: The Heart of the Adventure

The first stop is Phnom Kulen National Park itself — a chain of small mountain plateaus offering a cool escape from the heat and a chance to stretch your legs. The park’s location, about 65 km north of Siem Reap, means you’ll enjoy a scenic drive before the highlights begin.

This area is notable for its historical significance as well as natural beauty. The ascent involves a brief climb, during which you’ll pass by a quarry where stones were historically cut for temple construction. The views here are peaceful, and the air feels fresher with the higher altitude.

The Quarry and the One Thousand Lingas

The tour incorporates a stop at the quarry, giving visitors a glimpse into the ancient stone-cutting process. This stop is not only functional but also visually interesting, offering a sense of how the ancient Khmer builders sourced their materials.

Next, you’ll visit the One Thousand Lingas, carved into the riverbed around 800 AD. This tranquil stretch of water reveals intricate carvings in the bedrock, which are believed to have spiritual and possibly ritual significance. Reviewers often mention how calm and meditative the walk along this part is — a stark contrast to the busy temples of Angkor.

One reviewer noted, “A very tranquil river walk reveals all different sizes of Lingas.” The water here is described as beautifully clear, with some visitors mentioning the different colors and textures of the carvings underfoot. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for wandering slowly and taking photos or just soaking in the history.

Visiting Preah Ang Thom Pagoda and Reclining Buddha

The next stop is Preah Ang Thom, home to the largest reclining Buddha statue in Cambodia. Located on a hill near Kulen Mountain, the pagoda offers not only spiritual significance but also panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Visitors often comment on the friendly atmosphere here and enjoy the chance to see local monks and villagers going about their day. The guide will likely share stories about the Buddha’s history and the significance of the site, adding depth to your visit.

The Majestic Kulen Waterfall

The highlight for many is Kulen Waterfall, a majestic cascade that pours over natural rock formations. The water is considered “holy,” believed to be sacred water from the Hindu god Shiva — hence, it’s often seen as a cleansing or spiritual experience.

Guests frequently mention the opportunity to take a refreshing swim in the cool waters, with some spending up to 90 minutes relaxing and enjoying the scenery. The waterfall area also features some man-made channels that support the local community’s irrigation and rice farming, connecting natural beauty with everyday life.

One reviewer described it as “a perfect spot to cool off,” praising how clean and scenic it was, although noting that the water levels vary depending on the season — January to March offers the most robust flow.

The Landmine Museum: A Heartfelt Reminder

The final major stop is the Cambodian Landmine Museum. This emotionally impactful site was established by Aki Ra, a former child soldier who now dedicates his life to removing landmines.

Visitors typically spend about 45 minutes here, gaining perspective on Cambodia’s recent history and the ongoing efforts to make the land safe again. Reviewers like Elena mentioned how the guide shared meaningful stories and insights, making the visit both educational and moving.

Before this, there’s an optional stop at a local vendor where you can see how palm sugar is traditionally made. This is not only a taste of local culture but also an opportunity to see how rural Cambodians sustain themselves.

Optional Extra: The Landmine Museum Entrance Fee

The tour price covers the main entrance fees, but the landmine museum itself has an entrance fee of USD 3, which is not included in the package. Some reviews, like that from David, mentioned confusion about costs, but the tour clearly states this is an optional visit, and the fee is quite reasonable.

What Travelers Love About This Tour

Many guests praise Makara and Chout, the guides, for their friendly demeanor and wealth of knowledge. Elena appreciated how Makara “told us lots of information about the country and the trip,” while others noted how guides went out of their way to help with photos and making everyone comfortable.

The scenery at Kulen Waterfall and the tranquility of the Lingas are frequently highlighted as relaxing, scenic highlights. The water, especially during the dry season, is more vigorous and visually impressive, making the visit more memorable — many recommend traveling between January and March for the best water flow.

The local food demonstrations and the palm sugar tasting add authentic flavors to the day, providing a taste of rural Cambodian life. Reviewers mention the deliciousness of the local treats, which complement the experience well.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

• Arrive early at the meeting point to ensure a smooth start. The tour begins promptly at 8:30 am.
• Wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking and light climbing, especially when exploring the Lingas and pagoda areas.
• Bring a swimsuit and towel if you want to take a dip at Kulen Waterfall. The water is refreshing and part of the experience.
• Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as some parts of the tour are exposed and sunny.
• The tour includes water and wet towels, so stay hydrated — but consider bringing extra water if you tend to get parched.
• The small-group format means you’ll have opportunities to ask questions and get personalized attention from guides like Makara or Chout, known for their friendly and informative commentary.

The Value of This Experience

At USD 45, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Cambodia’s natural beauty and history. All entrance fees are included, and the transportation is air-conditioned, making it comfortable even on hot days. The inclusion of water and towels means you’re well-cared for throughout the day.

Compared to visiting individual sites separately, this guided tour saves time, offers expert insights, and provides a relaxed, well-organized experience. The small-group format enhances this, making it feel more like a shared adventure than a crowded bus ride.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who are curious about Cambodian history, culture, and nature, and prefer a personalized, small-group setting. It’s ideal for those wanting a mix of active exploration, scenic vistas, and meaningful learning — especially if you’re visiting Phnom Kulen for the first time.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo and enjoy engaging guides and authentic local experiences, this tour is a great choice. However, those seeking a more relaxed, less packed day might prefer spreading out individual site visits.

The Sum Up

This Kullen Waterfall Park tour offers an authentic, well-rounded glimpse of Cambodia’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes. The combination of scenic waterfalls, ancient carvings, and impactful history makes it a fulfilling day trip for genuine explorers and culture lovers alike.

The small-group setting and knowledgeable guides ensure you get personalized attention, making the experience both informative and enjoyable. The value for the price, especially with all fees included, makes it an accessible and worthwhile option for travelers eager for a deeper connection with Cambodia beyond Angkor Wat.

While the day is packed, the variety of sights and stories means you’ll walk away with meaningful memories, beautiful photos, and a better understanding of the country’s resilience and spiritual depth. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or cultural explorer, this tour delivers on all fronts.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned transportation in a Loumson minivan from the meeting point and back.

What is the tour duration?
The whole experience lasts around 8 hours, starting at 8:30 am and returning to the meeting point in the late afternoon.

Are all entrance fees included?
Most entrance fees are covered, including the park, the Lingas, and the waterfall. The only additional fee is USD 3 for the Landmine Museum, which is optional.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the itinerary includes walking, mild climbing, and water activities. Always check with the tour provider if you have very young children.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a swimsuit and towel if you want to swim, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and a camera for photos.

Can I customize the visit to include more sites?
The tour follows a set itinerary, but guides are friendly and knowledgeable, so you can ask questions or linger longer at favorite spots.

Ready for a day of scenic beauty, cultural discovery, and heartfelt stories? This tour balances all three, giving you a memorable taste of Cambodia’s soul.