Siem Reap: Beng Mealea, Banteay Srei & Kulen Waterfall Trip

Siem Reap’s captivating temples and natural wonders make for an unforgettable adventure. This one-day excursion showcases Cambodia’s architectural gems and serene landscapes. Explore the intricate 10th-century carvings of Banteay Srei, marvel at the Reclining Buddha in Phnom Kulen National Park, and uncover the mystery of Beng Mealea temple. With stunning sights and rich history, this trip offers a glimpse into the heart of Khmer culture. Prepare to be enchanted as you discover the region’s hidden treasures.

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Siem Reap visits the 10th-century Banteay Srei temple, Phnom Kulen National Park, and the 12th-century Beng Mealea temple.
• The tour is priced at $52.25 per person and includes hotel pickup, professional guides, and air-conditioned transportation.
• Highlights include the Reclining Buddha, River of a Thousand Lingas, and Kulen Waterfalls in Phnom Kulen National Park.
• Additional entrance fees for Angkor Archaeological Park and Kulen Mountain are not included in the tour price.
• The tour has a group size cap of 12 participants for a personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers a full-day excursion from Siem Reap to explore three of Cambodia’s iconic archaeological sites: Banteay Srei, Phnom Kulen, and Beng Mealea.

Priced at $52.25 per person, the tour provides free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later.

The 9.5-hour itinerary includes hotel pickup, professional guides, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Entrance fees to the Angkor Archaeological Park and Kulen Mountain are additional.

The tour isn’t suitable for those with limited mobility or fitness levels.

A personalized experience is guaranteed with a group size capped at 12 participants.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with pickup from Krong Siem Reap, followed by a visit to the 10th-century temple of Banteay Srei, known for its intricate carvings dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva. Next, the group travels to the sacred Phnom Kulen National Park, where they’ll explore the 8-meter Reclining Buddha, the River of a Thousand Lingas, and the picturesque Kulen Waterfalls. After lunch at a local restaurant, the tour continues to the 12th-century temple of Beng Mealea, with its collapsed galleries and vine-covered walls. The day concludes with the return to Krong Siem Reap.

| Location | Duration |

| — | — |

| Banteay Srei | 1 hour |

| Phnom Kulen National Park | 3 hours |

| Lunch | 1 hour |

| Beng Mealea | 1 hour |

Key Attractions

Banteay Srei, a 10th-century temple, is renowned for its intricate carvings dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva.

The sacred Phnom Kulen mountain features several highlights:

1. The impressive 8-meter Reclining Buddha at Preah Ang Thom Pagoda.

2. The River of a Thousand Lingas, a riverbed carved with ancient symbols.

3. The picturesque Kulen Waterfalls, a popular spot for swimming.

4. Lush natural landscapes and serene ambiance.

Beng Mealea, a 12th-century temple, intrigues visitors with its collapsed galleries and vine-covered walls, evoking a sense of mystery and adventure.

These key attractions offer a glimpse into Cambodia’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

Inclusions and Requirements

The tour includes bottled water, a towel, free hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional English-speaking guide, a seasonal fruit tasting, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

However, entrance fees to Angkor Pass ($37) and Kulen Mountain ($20 per person in cash) aren’t included.

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, a camera, sunscreen, and cash for personal expenses.

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with low fitness levels.

The group size is limited to 12 participants for a personalized experience, and pickup is scheduled between 7:30 and 8:00 AM.

More Great Tours Nearby

Important Information

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with low fitness levels. It involves moderate walking and climbing.

To prepare, visitors should wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and bring sunscreen, swimwear, and cash.

The tour includes:

1. Daily availability, though site appearances may vary by season.

2. A group size limited to 12 participants for a personalized experience.

3. Pickup scheduled between 7:30 and 8:00 AM, with details confirmed the day before the tour.

4. Personal expenses and lunch aren’t included.

Getting to Siem Reap

Getting to Siem Reap is generally straightforward, as the city serves as a major gateway to the Angkor Archaeological Park. Here’s a table outlining different transportation options to reach Siem Reap:

| Transport | Duration | Cost |

| — | — | — |

| Taxi | 6-8 hours | $50-$100 |

| Bus | 5-7 hours | $5-$10 |

| Train | 6-8 hours | $10-$20 |

| Flight | 1 hour | $50-$100 |

Flights are the quickest option, though buses and trains offer more affordable rates. Taxi services provide door-to-door convenience but cost more. Regardless of the mode, getting to Siem Reap is easy, allowing visitors to enjoy the region’s rich history and culture.

Exploring Banteay Srei

Banteay Srei, a 10th-century temple located about 25 kilometers north of Siem Reap, is renowned for its exquisite carvings and architectural details.

This small but stunning temple offers a glimpse into the artistic prowess of the Khmer civilization:

1. The temple’s intricate sandstone reliefs depict scenes from Hindu mythology, showcasing the skill of the ancient Khmer artisans.

2. The pinkish-red hue of the sandstone gives the temple a unique and captivating appearance, especially during the golden hour.

3. Visitors can admire the delicate carvings of devatas, celestial dancers, and other intricate motifs adorning the temple’s walls and towers.

4. The temple’s relatively small size and remote location make it a peaceful and serene escape from the crowds at Angkor Wat.

Discovering Phnom Kulen and Kulen Waterfalls

After exploring the intricate carvings of Banteay Srei, the tour continues to the sacred mountain of Phnom Kulen, located about an hour’s drive from Siem Reap. Visitors can expect to discover the 8-meter Reclining Buddha statue at Preah Ang Thom Pagoda and marvel at the River of a Thousand Lingas. The highlight, however, is the Kulen Waterfalls, where guests can swim and enjoy the natural beauty. The tour includes a 1-hour lunch break at a local restaurant before visiting the 12th-century temple of Beng Mealea.

| Phnom Kulen Highlights | Duration |

| ——————— | ——– |

| Reclining Buddha | 30 mins |

| River of 1000 Lingas | 1 hour |

| Kulen Waterfalls | 1.5 hours|

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Guides Able to Provide Wheelchair Assistance?

Unfortunately, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. The sites visited have uneven terrain and steps that would be challenging for those with limited mobility. Guides are unable to provide wheelchair assistance on this tour.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Food and Drinks?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, bottled water and a seasonal fruit tasting are provided. Lunch at a local restaurant is included in the tour price.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The tour has a free cancellation policy – participants can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility and allows customers to change their plans if needed.

Is Photography Permitted at All the Sites?

Photography is generally allowed at all the sites on the tour. However, visitors should be respectful and follow any site-specific rules or restrictions that may be in place. It’s best to check with the guide for guidance on photography during the tour.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Individual Preferences?

This tour can be customized to individual preferences. While the itinerary highlights key attractions, travelers can discuss their interests with the tour provider and potentially adjust the schedule to suit their needs.

The Sum Up

This captivating Siem Reap tour offers a chance to take in Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage. From the intricate carvings of Banteay Srei to the serene Kulen Waterfalls, the journey showcases the country’s natural and architectural wonders. Whether you’re a history buff or nature enthusiast, this day trip promises an unforgettable exploration of Cambodian treasures, leaving you with lasting memories of the kingdom’s timeless allure.

You can check availability for your dates here: