Phnom Kulen Day Tour - Kulen Mountain Waterfall & River of a Thousand Lingas
A six‑hour small‑group day tour from Siem Reap that combines jungle hiking, a photogenic waterfall swim, and visits to the River of a Thousand Lingas and a Giant Reclining Buddha. Expect wet rock, warm stone, and cultural sites tucked into a sacred landscape.
The Experience
Before You Go
Sturdy, grippy footwear
Trails and rocks at the waterfall can be slippery—choose closed shoes with good tread rather than flip‑flops.
Hydrate before you go
Bring at least 1.5 liters of water per person; humidity and short climbs make the day deceptively tiring.
Respect sacred areas
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting the Giant Reclining Buddha and nearby shrines; avoid loud behavior in pilgrimage zones.
Prepare for rain
If traveling May–October, pack a lightweight rain jacket and quick‑dry clothes—the trail and carvings can be slippery after downpours.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Amazing Cliff viewpoint for dramatic orange rock formations at sunrise
- •Small, less‑visited temple ruins off the main route with carved lintels and fewer tourists
Wildlife
- •Long‑tailed macaque
- •Great hornbill (occasional sightings)
Conservation Note
The park is a protected area with increasing ecotourism pressure; visitors should stay on trails, avoid touching carvings, and carry out trash to limit impact.
Phnom Kulen was an early Khmer royal site; the River of a Thousand Lingas contains carved motifs that reference Hindu cosmology and early Angkorian presence.
What to Bring
Trail shoes with gripEssential
Provide traction on wet rock and uneven jungle paths.
Reusable water bottle (1.5L+)Essential
Keeps you hydrated through humid climbs and midday heat.
Light rain jacket
Useful during monsoon months when sudden downpours are common.
Modest cover‑up or sarong
Required for respectful visits to religious sites like the Reclining Buddha.
Common Questions
Is the Kulen Mountain entrance fee included?
Yes — the tour includes the Kulen Mountain entrance fee and a local guide as part of the booking.
Can I swim at Kulen Waterfall?
Yes, swimming is commonly allowed but conditions change with the season—follow your guide’s advice on safety and avoid strong currents after heavy rain.
How far is Phnom Kulen from Siem Reap?
The park is roughly 40–60 minutes’ drive from Siem Reap depending on route and traffic; your tour usually includes hotel pickup around 8:00 am.
Is this suitable for children or less mobile travelers?
The tour is rated easy to moderate; younger children can join but watch slippery areas, and there are some uneven steps that may challenge limited mobility.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 hours
Location
Siem Reap, Siem Reap Province
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness for short hikes, uneven steps, and brief rock scrambling; suitable for most active travelers.
Ready to Explore Siem Reap?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now