Siem Reap: Kulen Mountain, Beng Mealea, and Tonle Sap Tour

Cambodia’s Siem Reap region offers travelers a chance to enjoy the country’s rich cultural and natural heritage. This 10-hour tour showcases the breathtaking Kulen Mountain, the enigmatic Beng Mealea Temple, and the unique floating village of Kampong Phluk on Tonle Sap Lake. From the iconic Reclining Buddha to the mysterious ruins, each stop promises to transport visitors to a world unlike any other. Whether you’re seeking adventure, history, or a glimpse into local life, this comprehensive tour promises an unforgettable experience.

Key Points

• This private or small-group tour explores Kulen Mountain, Beng Mealea Temple, and the floating village of Kampong Phluk on Tonle Sap Lake in Siem Reap.
• Kulen Mountain features the iconic Reclining Buddha statue and the River of a Thousand Lingas, a sacred Hindu site with intricate carvings.
• Beng Mealea Temple is a 12th-century complex with a blend of Buddhist and Hindu influences, showcasing crumbling structures and overgrown vegetation.
• The tour includes a boat ride to Kampong Phluk, a floating village where houses, churches, and schools are built on stilts above the water.
• The tour provides an immersive cultural experience, exploring Cambodia’s rich heritage and the daily life of the villagers on Tonle Sap Lake.

Tour Overview

The Siem Reap: Kulen Mountain, Beng Mealea, and Tonle Sap Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Cambodia’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Priced from $73.75 per person, this 10-hour private or small-group tour takes visitors on a journey to iconic sites like the Kulen Mountain, Beng Mealea Temple, and the floating village of Kampong Phluk.

Highlights include the Reclining Buddha, the River of a Thousand Lingas, and guided tours of the ancient temples. With an English-speaking guide, hotel pickup, and various inclusions, this tour provides a seamless and immersive experience, allowing travelers to explore Cambodia’s treasures.

Kulen Mountain Exploration

Situated about an hour’s drive north of Siem Reap, Phnom Kulen National Park beckons visitors to explore its rich cultural and natural wonders.

Travelers will discover the Reclining Buddha, an iconic statue carved into the mountainside, and the River of a Thousand Lingas, a remarkable riverbed adorned with intricate Hindu carvings.

After marveling at these sacred sites, they’ll enjoy a refreshing break at the Kulen waterfall, where they can bask in the serene atmosphere and snap stunning photos.

This holy mountain holds deep significance for both Hindus and Buddhists, offering a truly immersive cultural experience.

Reclining Buddha and River of a Thousand Lingas

What captivates visitors to Phnom Kulen National Park is the awe-inspiring Reclining Buddha and the River of a Thousand Lingas.

The Reclining Buddha statue, carved directly from the mountainside, is an impressive 16 meters long.

The majestic Reclining Buddha, carved straight from the mountainside, measures an impressive 16 meters in length.

The River of a Thousand Lingas features:

1. Intricate carvings of Hindu linga symbols covering the river bed.

2. A serene atmosphere, as visitors can wade through the shallow waters.

3. A sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists, reflecting the intertwined history of the region.

These natural and cultural wonders make Kulen Mountain a must-visit destination during any Siem Reap adventure.

Kulen Waterfall Sightseeing

After exploring the Reclining Buddha and the River of a Thousand Lingas, visitors can take a break and enjoy the stunning Kulen waterfall.

Cascading down the mountain, the waterfall creates a serene, lush oasis. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil ambiance, dip their feet in the cool waters, and admire the verdant surroundings.

The 1.5-hour stop at the waterfall allows ample time to relax, recharge, and capture breathtaking photographs. This natural wonder is a highlight of the Kulen Mountain excursion, offering a peaceful respite amidst the day’s adventure.

Beng Mealea Temple Tour

From the serene waterfall, the tour then takes visitors to the ancient Beng Mealea Temple.

This 12th-century complex features a mix of Buddhist and Hindu influences, with its crumbling structures and overgrown vegetation evoking a sense of mystery and discovery.

Visitors can:

1. Explore the wooden walkways that have been built to improve accessibility and provide better views of the temple.

2. Admire the intricate carvings and architectural details that have withstood the test of time.

3. Imagine the grandeur of the temple in its heyday, as they wander through the sprawling ruins.

Life in the Floating Village

Leaving the ancient temple behind, the tour then takes visitors on a boat ride to Kampong Phluk, a unique floating village on the Tonle Sap Lake.

Here, wooden houses, churches, and schools rise on stilts above the water, connected by rickety walkways. Locals row their small boats, transporting goods and children to and fro.

Visitors can explore the mangrove forests, observing the daily lives of the villagers who make their living fishing and farming. The serene setting provides a glimpse into a way of life deeply intertwined with the rhythms of the lake.

Mangrove Forest Exploration

As visitors board the boats, they enter a lush, verdant world of the mangrove forest. The serene waterways wind through a labyrinth of twisted roots and dense foliage, providing a glimpse into this unique ecosystem.

Highlights of the exploration include:

Observing diverse wildlife, from vibrant birds to curious macaque monkeys, thriving in the mangrove’s protected habitat.

1. Observing diverse wildlife, from vibrant birds to curious macaque monkeys, thriving in the mangrove’s protected habitat.

2. Gliding through narrow channels and discovering hidden channels, offering a sense of adventure and discovery.

3. Learning about the vital role mangroves play in maintaining the lake’s ecological balance and supporting the local community’s way of life.

Transportation and Inclusions

The tour includes comfortable air-conditioned transportation, whether by car or minivan, to ensure a pleasant and efficient journey between the tour sites.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are provided for convenience. An English-speaking guide accompanies the group, offering informative explanations about the historical and cultural significance of the visited landmarks.

Complimentary mineral water, towels, and seasonal fruits are included to keep guests refreshed.

Admission fees for Kulen Mountain, Beng Mealea, and the Tonle Sap boat ride are covered in the tour price.

Alcohol, soft drinks, and optional tips for the guide and driver are the only exclusions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book This Tour for a Specific Date and Time?

Yes, you can book this tour for a specific date and time. The tour provider offers private or small group options, allowing you to customize the experience to your scheduling preferences.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour Rather Than a Group Tour?

Yes, the tour offers a private option in addition to small group tours. Travelers can enjoy a personalized experience with their own private car, driver, and English-speaking guide to explore the highlights at their own pace.

Can I Visit Additional Sites During the Tour if I Want?

Yes, travelers can visit additional sites during the tour. The tour operator offers flexibility to customize the itinerary based on the group’s interests, allowing them to explore more of the region’s highlights within the tour duration.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour has a flexible cancellation policy, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This gives customers peace of mind when booking their tour.

Is There Flexibility in the Pickup and Drop-Off Locations?

The tour offers flexible pickup and drop-off, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. Guests can wait in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time to be transported to the tour’s starting point.

The Sum Up

This Siem Reap tour offers a captivating blend of Cambodia’s cultural and natural wonders. Visitors will be awestruck by the majestic Kulen Mountain, the mysterious Beng Mealea Temple, and the unique floating village of Kampong Phluk. Led by an expert guide, this immersive 10-hour journey provides an unforgettable glimpse into the rich heritage and daily life of this remarkable destination.