One Day Tour to Waterfall and Beng Mealea Temple

Experience the Wonders of Cambodia in a Day: Waterfalls and Jungle Temples

When it comes to discovering Cambodia beyond the famous Angkor Wat, this One Day Tour to Waterfall and Beng Mealea Temple offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty and ancient ruins. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itineraries suggest it’s a well-rounded, value-packed adventure perfect for those wanting a taste of local culture, stunning landscapes, and iconic temple ruins all in one day.

What draws us to this tour? First, the chance to see Phnom Kulen, often called Cambodia’s most sacred mountain, with its cool waterfalls and the intriguing thousand Linga carvings. Second, the untouched beauty of Beng Mealea, a jungle temple that remains largely unrestored, allowing for an authentic exploration of Cambodia’s mysterious past. Finally, the overall value for money—considering transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and delicious local lunch—makes it a practical choice for travelers who want a comprehensive day out without sacrificing depth or comfort.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour requires a moderate physical fitness level—you’ll be walking, climbing, and possibly swimming. It’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or who prefer a more relaxed, sit-back sightseeing experience. Also, entrance fees for Kulen mountain and Beng Mealea are not included, so budget accordingly. This tour is especially ideal for those who love a combination of scenic outdoor activity and culture, and who don’t mind a full day on the go.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines natural waterfalls and ancient temple ruins for a well-rounded adventure.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable and friendly guides enhance your understanding of Cambodia’s sites.
• Full-Day Itinerary: Around 8 to 10 hours packed with sightseeing, walking, and exploring.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private transport, hotel pickup, bottled water, and cool towels keep you refreshed.
• Clear Value: For $153.85, you get a comprehensive day out, though entrance fees are extra.
• Limited Flexibility: It’s a structured tour—if you prefer more free time, consider other options.

Discovering Phnom Kulen: Waterfalls, Lingas, and Sacred Sites

The day kicks off with a pickup from your hotel and a comfortable ride in an air-conditioned vehicle. The journey to Phnom Kulen National Park is scenic, giving you a glimpse of Cambodia’s lush countryside. Once there, you’ll likely spend around four hours exploring.

Phnom Kulen is renowned as Cambodia’s “mountain of treasures,” and it’s easy to see why. The highlight for many visitors is the waterfall, where you can take a refreshing swim in the cool waters—perfect on a hot day. Reviewers appreciated the “nice company” and “delicious local food” they enjoyed at the waterfall, adding a tasty and social element to the experience.

The site is famous for the thousand Linga carvings, which are cut underneath the surface of the river and can be seen as you stand at the water’s edge. This unique feature offers a glimpse into ancient Khmer spirituality and craftsmanship. One reviewer pointed out how they loved the “great views over Kulen National Park” and found the carvings particularly fascinating.

Besides the carvings and waterfall, you’ll visit Preah Ang Thom, home to Cambodia’s largest Buddha statue from the 16th century, and the reclining Buddha that has a peaceful, contemplative presence. It’s a meaningful stop for those interested in religious sites, and the quiet atmosphere is a nice contrast to the busy city streets.

Note: Entrance fees for Kulen mountain are not included, so make sure to set aside some cash for tickets.

Exploring the Jungle Sanctuary: Beng Mealea

After lunch—often a local-style meal with Cambodian flavors—the tour continues to Beng Mealea, about three hours away. This jungle temple stands out because it’s not been restored, giving it an overgrown, raw feel that many find magical and mysterious.

This temple, dating from the 12th century, is a favorite for those seeking a more authentic and adventurous experience. The reviewers highlight that the temple remains “100% not remodeled”, making it one of the most beautifully ruined sites in Cambodia. The overgrowth, moss, and collapsed sections create a sense of stepping back in time, with plenty of opportunities for photos and exploration.

Beng Mealea is a sprawling complex—think winding corridors, collapsed towers, and thick jungle growth. Expect to spend around three hours here, wandering freely and soaking in the atmosphere. Reviewers loved the “overgrown and jungle-like” setting, describing it as “a standout amongst the most beautiful temples.”

The site’s current condition makes it perfect for those who enjoy adventure trekking, photography, and imagining what the site was once like. It’s a stark contrast to the more polished Angkor sites, offering a sense of discovery.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour balances convenience with the freedom to explore. The included amenities are noteworthy: air-conditioned transportation, an English-speaking guide, bottled water, and cool towels—a thoughtful touch that reviewers appreciated during hot days. The guide, often praised for their knowledge, enriches your experience with insights and answers to all your questions.

However, entrance fees for Kulen mountain and Beng Mealea are not included, so travelers should prepare for additional costs. The price of $153.85 per group is quite reasonable considering the full-day, private experience and personalized attention.

Lunch is not included, but the tour offers a chance to enjoy local Cambodian food, often praised for its flavor and authenticity. Reviewers have described the meals as “very tasty,” adding to the overall value.

Transport, Timing, and Comfort

The journey is smooth, with a private, air-conditioned vehicle that comfortably seats up to three people. The pickup from your hotel simplifies logistics, and the tour is flexible enough to accommodate your schedule and pace.

While the total duration of 8-10 hours might seem long, the balanced itinerary—with plenty of breaks, scenic views, and engaging stops—makes it manageable. The reviews confirm that the guide’s friendliness and expertise make the day enjoyable and informative, ensuring you get the most out of your time.

Authenticity and Personal Touches

What truly stands out from reviews is the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. One reviewer mentioned Thom, who provided “an amazing tour from start to finish,” with “comfortable van, refreshing water, and fun conversations.” Another praised Thet for his dedication, spending extra time with guests throughout an entire trip. These personal touches significantly enhance the experience, making it more than just sightseeing.

Plus, the cold towels and bottled water are small but thoughtful details, especially on a hot day, keeping you comfortable and refreshed as you explore.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This full-day itinerary is perfect for travelers who want a mix of nature, history, and adventure in Cambodia. It suits those with moderate physical fitness, willing to walk, climb, and spend several hours outdoors. It’s an excellent choice for first-time visitors looking to see key highlights without rushing or missing out on local flavors.

It’s less ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, low-effort day or who prefer a less structured experience. Those with a keen interest in Cambodian history and archaeology will appreciate the untouched, overgrown beauty of Beng Mealea and the spiritual significance of Phnom Kulen.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

In terms of value and authenticity, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Cambodia’s natural and cultural treasures. The combination of waterfalls, ancient carvings, and jungle ruins makes it a compelling choice for those wanting to expand beyond Angkor Wat.

The private nature of the tour means you’ll enjoy personalized attention, and the knowledgeable guides help bring the sites to life. The included amenities like cool towels and bottled water boost comfort, especially on hot days.

While the entrance fees are not included, they are manageable and worth it for the chance to see such iconic and less-visited sites in a single day. The delicious local lunch and the opportunity to trek through overgrown temples add unique touches that make this experience memorable.

If you’re after a full, immersive day that combines scenic beauty with historical intrigue, this tour is a fantastic option. It’s particularly suited for adventurous travelers eager to explore Cambodia’s natural and archaeological wonders in a comfortable, guided setting.

FAQ

Do I need to have a high level of fitness for this tour?
Yes, travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level because the day involves walking, climbing, and potentially swimming at the waterfall.

Are entrance fees included in the price?
No, the Kulen mountain and Beng Mealea entrance fees are not included and should be budgeted for separately.

What is the tour duration?
The tour generally lasts 8 to 10 hours, depending on the pace and timing of stops.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup from your hotel is included, making it convenient and stress-free.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and some cash for entrance fees and optional meals or souvenirs.

Will I get a guide?
Yes, an English-speaking guide is included, and reviews highlight how knowledgeable and friendly they are.

Can I customize the tour?
This is a private tour, so you may have some flexibility to tailor certain aspects—discuss your preferences with the provider beforehand.

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, historic intrigue, and cultural insights, making it a rewarding day for those ready to explore Cambodia’s lesser-known treasures.