Phnom Kulen Waterfall & Banteay Srei Tour
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1d
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About this experience
Visit the birthplace of Khmer Empire, and the most gorgeous place in Cambodia. Many Cambodian people believe Phnom Kulen as a sacred mountain. We will also visit the finest temple, Banteay Srei.
Available options
Car
Standard tour with Car (1 - 4 pax)<br/>Pickup included
Minivan
Standard Tour with minivan (1 - 8 pax)<br/>Pickup included
Tour with Tour Guide & Minivan
Tour with Tour Guide & Minivan<br/>Pickup included
Tour Guide & Car
Tour with Tour Guide & Car<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Drinking Water
Cold Towels
Transportation
Detailed itinerary
1
Kulen Mountain
We will come and pick you up from the hotel and begin our trip to the 40km-long mountain range, Phnom Kulen. We must be there before 11am because it has only one small road. It is located about 50km north of Siem Reap town and it was the source of sandstone to build temples during the Angkor period. When driving up the steep hills, we will see the most beautiful landscape ever seen.
It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992. Phnom Kulen is also a protected area as a National Park by the Cambodian government. There are many interesting sites to visit on Phnom Kulen. We will see the elegant waterfall that is divided into two parts. The top is a 5m high and 20-25 wide waterfall, and the lower part is a 15-20m waterfall that used to film Tomb Raider. It is a good place for relaxing and swimming.
We will go to visit Preah Ang Thom, a 16th-century giant reclining Buddha, measuring up to 8 meters. The statue was carved into a huge sandstone. Preah Ang Thom is considered as a holy place to worship in Phnom Kulen. We will also see a big foot-print of Preah Bat Choan Tuk near Preah Ang Thom.
We then will visit the River of 1000 Lingas or Kbal Spean, located 1.5km from the waterfall. To access Kbal Spean, we have to walk on a small path into the forest. There are many figures of Lingas and Yoni and other carved Hindu Gods into the rocks of the riverbed.
Then, we will hike back to the mountain to see the Terrace of Sdach Kamlung or Terrace of Leper King, meaning in English. There is a small wrecked monument built of bricks in the middle of the plain terrace.
Banteay Srei
After a long day of walking, will find a good place near the waterfall to stop and rest for lunch before we drive down the mountain to visit Banteay Srei temple. We will head to Banteay Srei which is about 10km from Phnom Kulen. The meaning of this temple in English is “Citadel of Women”, and it is known as the “Precious Gem of Angkor”. It is a must-see temple because it is unique as it was built from pink sandstones. Most parts of the temple remain in good condition, so the details of the finest ancient Khmer carvings are still seen today.
What's not included
Phnom Kulen Entrance Fee ($20 per person)
1 Day Angkor Pass ($37 per person)
Personal Expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Guests need to follow the dress code rules when visiting the temples.
About Siem Reap
Siem Reap is the vibrant gateway to the ancient Angkor temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This charming city offers a blend of rich history, vibrant markets, and lush landscapes, making it a must-visit destination in Cambodia.
Top Attractions
Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This iconic temple complex is a masterpiece of Khmer architecture and a symbol of Cambodia.
Historical
Half to full day
USD 37 for 3-day pass
Angkor Thom
Angkor Thom is a walled city and the last capital of the Khmer Empire. It features several impressive temples, including the Bayon Temple with its famous smiling faces.
Historical
Half to full day
USD 37 for 3-day pass
Ta Prohm
Ta Prohm is a temple complex overgrown by jungle, featuring a unique blend of nature and architecture. It was famously used as a filming location for the movie 'Tomb Raider'.
Historical
1-2 hours
USD 37 for 3-day pass
Pub Street
Pub Street is the heart of Siem Reap's nightlife, offering a vibrant mix of bars, restaurants, and street food vendors. It's a great place to experience the city's lively atmosphere.
Entertainment
Evening
Free to explore, budget for food and drinks
Siem Reap Night Market
The Siem Reap Night Market is a bustling market offering a variety of local crafts, souvenirs, and street food. It's a great place to shop for unique gifts and experience local culture.
Shopping
1-2 hours
Budget to moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Amok
A creamy, coconut-based curry with fish, chicken, or tofu, steamed in banana leaves. It's a traditional Khmer dish with a unique flavor.
Main dish
Vegetarian options available
Nom Banh Chok
A popular breakfast dish consisting of rice noodles topped with a fish-based green curry gravy and fresh vegetables.
Breakfast
Vegetarian options available
Bai Sach Chrouk
Grilled pork served with broken rice and pickled vegetables. It's a popular breakfast dish in Cambodia.
Breakfast
Contains meat
Lok Lak
A stir-fried beef dish with a tangy lime and pepper sauce, served with rice and fresh vegetables.
Main dish
Contains meat
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Angkor Archaeological Park
Exploring the bamboo train in Battambang
Visiting spas and wellness centers
Enjoying a traditional Khmer massage
Exploring temples and historical sites
Attending traditional dance performances
Boat tours on Tonlé Sap Lake
Swimming in waterfalls
Best Time to Visit
November to February
The best time to visit Siem Reap is during the dry season when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the temples. The cooler temperatures make it comfortable for long days of sightseeing.
20-30°C
68-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Khmer
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Cambodian Riel (KHR)
Time Zone
Indochina Time (ICT), GMT+7
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Siem Reap is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of scams and overcharging.
- • Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas.
- • Use reputable tour operators and transportation services.
Getting there
By air
- Siem Reap International Airport • 5 km from city center
By bus
Siem Reap Virak Buntham Express Terminal, Siem Reap Giant Ibis Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Tuk-tuks are the most popular and affordable mode of transport in Siem Reap. They are widely available and can be negotiated for short or long trips.
Taxis
Available • Apps: PassApp, Grab
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Wat Bo
Wat Damnak
Sivatha
Day trips
Battambang
150 km from Siem Reap • Full day
Battambang is a charming colonial town known for its well-preserved French architecture, bamboo train, and nearby temples. It's a great destination for a day trip from Siem Reap.
Kampong Phluk
16 km from Siem Reap • Half day
Kampong Phluk is a floating village on the edge of the Tonlé Sap Lake. It offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the local community and the stunning natural beauty of the area.
Kbal Spean
25 km from Siem Reap • Half day
Kbal Spean is a remote archaeological site featuring ancient carvings and a beautiful river setting. It's a great destination for those looking to explore off-the-beaten-path attractions.
Festivals
Khmer New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey) • April 13-15 (dates vary)
Bon Om Touk (Water Festival) • November (dates vary)
Angkor Photo Festival • December (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide for the Angkor Archaeological Park to gain a deeper understanding of the temples' history and significance.
- Visit the temples early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat.
- Try local street food like nom banh chok and bai sach chrouk for an authentic culinary experience.
- Bargain for better prices at markets and street stalls, but do so respectfully and with a smile.
- Use a map app like Google Maps for navigation, as street signs can be limited and confusing.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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