Phnom Kulen National Park offers a stunning natural escape from the bustle of Siem Reap. On this small-group day tour, travelers can experience the park’s breathtaking sights, including the cascading Phnom Kulen waterfall, the impressive River of a Thousand Lingas, and the serene Grand Reclining Buddha. With convenient transportation and an expert guide, this excursion provides a hassle-free way to explore one of Cambodia’s most remarkable natural wonders. What secrets and surprises await those who venture to this enchanting destination?
Key Points
- A 6-hour small-group tour to Phnom Kulen National Park from Siem Reap, limited to 12 participants and costing Kč 1,360 per person.
- Highlights include the Phnom Kulen waterfall, Grand Reclining Buddha statue, River of a Thousand Lingas, and 28 ancient temples.
- Tour includes hotel pick-up/drop-off, English-speaking guide, bottled water, and entrance fees, with no upfront payment required.
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the tour is rated 4.6/5 based on 53 reviews.
- The tour involves a 1.5-hour drive each way from Siem Reap to the 487-meter elevated Phnom Kulen National Park.
Tour Overview
The Phnom Kulen Waterfall Day Tour is a small-group tour that takes visitors to Phnom Kulen National Park in Siem Reap.
The 6-hour tour costs from Kč 1,360 per person and is limited to 12 participants. It includes hotel pick-up/drop-off, an English-speaking guide, bottled water, and entrance fees.
Highlights include the Phnom Kulen waterfall, the statue of the Grand Reclining Buddha, the River of a Thousand Lingas, and 28 ancient temples and rivers in a tropical forest.
The tour has an overall rating of 4.6/5 based on 53 reviews, with high praise for the knowledgeable guide and comfortable transportation.
Looking for more options in Siem Reap? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Booking Information
Travelers can reserve the Phnom Kulen Waterfall Day Tour now and pay later – there’s no need to pay anything today.
The tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, bottled water, and entrance fees, which cost $18 per person.
However, food, drinks, and personal expenses aren’t included. The tour has a small group size limited to 12 participants, ensuring an intimate experience.
The tour has a small group size limited to 12 participants, ensuring an intimate experience, but food, drinks, and personal expenses aren’t included.
Travelers should bring comfortable shoes and prepare to explore the ancient temples and rivers in the tropical forest.
Highlights of the Tour
One of the highlights of the Phnom Kulen Waterfall Day Tour is the chance to visit the majestic Phnom Kulen waterfall and cool off in its serene pools.
Guests will also marvel at the impressive statue of the Grand Reclining Buddha.
Another highlight is exploring the River of a Thousand Lingas, an ancient Hindu site featuring carvings along the riverbed.
The tour also includes visits to 28 ancient temples and rivers nestled in the tropical forest.
With an expert guide providing insightful commentary, travelers can truly enjoy the rich history and natural beauty of Phnom Kulen National Park.
Customer Experience
How have past travelers rated this Phnom Kulen Waterfall Day Tour?
Based on 53 reviews, the tour has earned an impressive overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.
Travelers have particularly praised the knowledgeable guide and hospitable driver, rating them 4.8 out of 5.
Travelers have particularly praised the knowledgeable guide and hospitable driver, rating them 4.8 out of 5.
They’ve also highlighted the excellent transportation, scoring it 4.8 out of 5.
While the value for money was rated 4.3 out of 5, reviewers appreciated the detailed explanations provided at checkpoints throughout the tour.
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Overall Rating: 4.6/5
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Guide Rating: 4.8/5
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Transportation Rating: 4.8/5
Getting to Phnom Kulen National Park
To reach Phnom Kulen National Park, visitors typically depart from Siem Reap, which is located approximately 50 kilometers northeast of the park.
The drive takes around 1.5 hours each way. After arriving at the park entrance, visitors must pay the entrance fee and continue up a winding road to the main attraction, the Phnom Kulen waterfall.
The journey involves passing through a lush, forested area and ascending to an elevation of 487 meters above sea level.
Visitors should expect a scenic, picturesque drive through the countryside before reaching the stunning natural wonder of Phnom Kulen.
Exploring the River of a Thousand Lingas
What makes the River of a Thousand Lingas so captivating? This sacred Hindu site features an intricate riverbed carved with over a thousand stone phallic symbols (lingas).
Visitors can:
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Marvel at the sheer number and intricacy of the carvings, believed to represent the Hindu god Shiva.
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Explore the riverside trails and spot other ancient structures, including temples and meditation chambers.
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Cool off in the river’s refreshing waters, which are said to have spiritual cleansing properties.
The River of a Thousand Lingas offers a unique glimpse into Khmer history and spirituality, making it a highlight of the Phnom Kulen day tour.
Discovering the Grand Reclining Buddha
Along With the sacred River of a Thousand Lingas, the Phnom Kulen day tour offers visitors the chance to marvel at the towering statue of the Grand Reclining Buddha. This 16-meter long statue depicts the Buddha in a state of nirvana, providing a serene and contemplative atmosphere. Visitors can explore the intricate details of the statue, admiring the craftsmanship and the profound symbolism it represents. The experience is further enhanced by the lush, verdant surroundings of the national park, creating a truly immersive and spiritual encounter.
| Feature | Details |
| — | — |
| Location | Phnom Kulen National Park |
| Statue Type | Grand Reclining Buddha |
| Statue Size | 16 meters long |
| Significance | Represents the Buddha in nirvana |
Refreshing at the Phnom Kulen Waterfall
As visitors explore the Phnom Kulen National Park, they’ll be captivated by the breathtaking Phnom Kulen Waterfall. The waterfall cascades over tiered rock formations, creating a mesmerizing display.
Visitors can:
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Cool off in the natural pools at the base of the waterfall, providing a refreshing respite from the tropical heat.
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Marvel at the lush, verdant surroundings and the ancient Angkorian carvings on the riverbed below.
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Climb to the top of the waterfall for panoramic views of the national park’s stunning landscape.
Exploring the Phnom Kulen Waterfall is a highlight of the day tour, leaving visitors rejuvenated and awestruck by the natural beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
According to the tour overview, food and drinks are not included, so you’re welcome to bring your own. However, the tour does provide bottled water for participants.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. It’s suitable for all ages, though children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. The small-group size ensures personalized attention and a comfortable experience for participants of all ages.
Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Tour?
There is no information provided about the option to upgrade to a private tour. The tour is offered as a small-group experience with a maximum of 12 participants. Upgrading may be possible, but details are not included in the overview.
Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment?
Yes, you can bring your own camera equipment on the tour. The tour allows participants to bring personal photography gear to capture the beautiful Phnom Kulen waterfall and other sights during the excursion.
Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?
Yes, there are restroom facilities available at various checkpoints during the tour. Guests can make use of these facilities as needed to ensure a comfortable experience throughout the day.
The Sum Up
This small-group day tour from Siem Reap to Phnom Kulen National Park is a must-do for nature lovers. With visits to the stunning waterfall, the Grand Reclining Buddha, and the fascinating River of a Thousand Lingas, it’s a hassle-free way to experience the park’s breathtaking beauty. The comfortable transportation and knowledgeable guide make it a great value at Kč 1,360 per person.
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