Siem Reap’s diverse cultural heritage and natural wonders come alive in this captivating full-day tour. Venturing to the sacred Kulen Mountain, visitors can marvel at the intricate 1000 Lingas and the cascading Kulen Waterfall. Exploring the atmospheric Beng Mealea temple, they’ll be transported back in time as they navigate the overgrown ruins. The day culminates with a serene boat cruise on Tonle Sap, where the floating village of Kampong Phluk offers a glimpse into the vibrant river-based lifestyle. This immersive experience promises to unveil the rich tapestry of Cambodia’s history and traditions.
Good To Know
- This full-day tour from Siem Reap explores the birthplace of the Khmer Empire at Kulen Mountain, the overgrown Beng Mealea temple, and the Tonle Sap floating village.
- The tour includes visits to the 1000 Lingas River, Preah Ang Thom Pagoda, Kulen Waterfall, and a boat cruise on Tonle Sap to see the floating village of Kompong Phluk.
- The tour offers a comprehensive experience, with hotel pick-up/drop-off, air-conditioned transport, professional guide, bottled water, towels, and a picnic lunch included.
- Additional fees apply for the Kulen Mountain Pass, Beng Mealea Pass, and Tonle Sap boat ride, providing access to these unique sites.
- The tour is highly rated by customers, with guides praised for their professionalism, knowledge, and ability to provide insights into the Khmer Empire’s rich heritage.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Siem Reap: Kulen Mountain, Beng Mealea, and Tonle Sap Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural and historical wonders, with prices starting at $62.10 per person.
The full-day tour lasts 10 hours and highlights include visiting waterfalls, a Reclining Buddha, the 1000 Lingas River, and a boat ride on Tonle Sap.
Travelers can reserve the tour now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, a professional guide, bottled water, towels, and a picnic lunch.
Additional fees apply for the Kulen Mountain Pass, Beng Mealea Pass, and Tonle Sap boat ride.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kompong Phluk.
Itinerary Details
The tour departs between 7:30 am and 8:00 am from hotels in Krong Siem Reap.
Travelers will first visit Phnom Kulen National Park, spending 2 hours exploring the 1000 Lingas River, Preah Ang Thom Pagoda, and the Kulen Waterfall, where they’ll enjoy a picnic lunch.
Next, they’ll tour the atmospheric Beng Mealea temple, heavily overgrown with vegetation.
The final stop is a 1.5-hour boat cruise on Tonle Sap to experience everyday life in the floating village of Kompong Phluk.
The tour returns to Krong Siem Reap after a full day of unique cultural and natural sights.
The key stops on the itinerary include:
- Phnom Kulen National Park
- Beng Mealea temple
- Tonle Sap Lake boat cruise
- Kulen Waterfall for lunch and swimming
Experience Highlights
At the heart of this comprehensive tour lies a deep dive into the rich history and captivating natural wonders of the region.
Guests will discover the birthplace of the Khmer Empire at Kulen Mountain, exploring its waterfalls, reclining Buddha statue, and the remarkable 1000 Shiva Lingas River.
The atmospheric Beng Mealea temple, heavily overgrown with vegetation, offers a glimpse into the past, while the floating village of Kampong Phluk provides a unique insight into everyday Cambodian life.
Complementing these experiences is a picnic lunch by the waterfalls, where travelers can savor local cuisine and enjoy the serene natural surroundings.
Inclusions and Fees
This tour includes comprehensive pickup and drop-off services from hotels in Krong Siem Reap, air-conditioned transportation, and an experienced tour guide to provide insights throughout the day.
The package also includes:
- Bottled water and towels to ensure your comfort.
- A picnic lunch featuring grilled chicken, jasmine rice, and seasonal fruits.
- Access to the Kulen Mountain Pass ($20 per person) and Beng Mealea Pass ($37 per person, or valid Angkor pass accepted).
- A boat ride on Tonle Sap Lake ($15 per person).
Guests can also choose to purchase soft drinks and provide tips as desired.
The tour isn’t recommended for individuals over 95 years of age.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Reviews
Travelers have overwhelmingly praised this tour, with an overall rating of 5/5 based on 68 reviews. Guides were highlighted for their professionalism, knowledge, and friendliness, providing educational insights into Cambodian history and culture.
Visitors noted the unique experiences at the various sites, including enjoying local cuisine by the waterfalls. The tour’s diverse offerings, from discovering the birthplace of the Khmer Empire at Kulen Mountain to exploring the atmospheric Beng Mealea temple, and experiencing everyday life in the floating village of Kampong Phluk, made for a memorable experience.
This tour is highly recommended for anyone visiting the Siem Reap area.
Discovering Khmer Empire Birthplace
The Kulen Mountain, located just north of Siem Reap, marks the birthplace of the mighty Khmer Empire. This sacred site is revered for its historical and cultural significance.
Visitors can:
- Explore the 1000 Lingas, an intricate carving of Hindu symbols, along the Svanchuor River.
- Marvel at the massive Reclining Buddha statue carved into the mountain’s sandstone.
- Witness the cascading waters of the Kulen Waterfall, a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.
- Uncover the ruins of ancient temples and structures that have stood the test of time.
This tour offers a unique glimpse into Cambodia’s rich heritage, allowing travelers to connect with the roots of the Khmer civilization.
Exploring Waterfalls and Lingas
After uncovering the birthplace of the Khmer Empire on Kulen Mountain, visitors can now explore the region’s remarkable natural wonders.
They’ll start with the 1000 Lingas, an intricate carving of Shiva lingams along the riverbed. Nearby, they’ll find the Preah Ang Thom Pagoda and its impressive reclining Buddha statue.
The highlight, though, is the Kulen Waterfall, where they can enjoy a picnic lunch and swim in the refreshing waters.
The entire experience provides an immersive look into Cambodia’s history and culture, with knowledgeable guides sharing insights along the way.
From the sacred sites to the natural beauty, this tour offers a truly memorable adventure.
Experiencing Floating Village Life
From the serene mountain landscapes, the tour now transitions to the vibrant floating village of Kampong Phluk on Tonle Sap Lake.
This unique community offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of its residents. Visitors can:
- Explore the stilted houses and floating markets on a guided boat tour.
- Witness the villagers’ fishing and farming practices.
- Learn about their resilient lifestyle adapting to the lake’s seasonal changes.
- Gain insight into the local culture and the importance of the lake to the community.
This immersive experience provides a captivating contrast to the earlier historical sites, offering a well-rounded understanding of Cambodia’s diverse landscapes and people.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Time Is Spent at Each Location?
The tour spends 2 hours at Kulen Mountain, 20 minutes at the 1000 Lingas, 40 minutes at Preah Ang Thom Pagoda, 1.5 hours at Kulen Waterfall, 1 hour at Beng Mealea, and 1.5 hours on the boat cruise to Kompong Phluk.
Are the Hiking Trails at Kulen Mountain Strenuous?
The hiking trails at Kulen Mountain aren’t overly strenuous, though there are some steeper sections. Most visitors find the trails manageable with moderate fitness levels. Guides can provide assistance for those needing extra support during the hike.
Can the Boat Ride at Tonle Sap Be Customized?
The Tonle Sap boat ride can’t be customized. It’s a standard tour that takes visitors through the floating village of Kompong Phluk. However, travelers can opt for additional activities or customize other aspects of the overall Siem Reap tour experience.
What Are the Dietary Options for the Picnic Lunch?
The picnic lunch includes grilled chicken, jasmine rice, and seasonal fruits. Vegetarian and other dietary options may be available upon request, but this is not explicitly stated in the tour details.
Are There Any Additional Fees Not Mentioned in the Pricing?
Yes, there are additional fees not mentioned in the pricing. These include a $20 fee for the Kulen Mountain pass, a $37 fee for the Beng Mealea pass, and a $15 fee for the Tonle Sap Lake boat ride.
Sum Up
This Siem Reap tour offers an immersive cultural experience, exploring the historical and natural wonders of Cambodia. Visitors can discover the birthplace of the Khmer Empire, marvel at the sacred Kulen Mountain, and gain insights into the vibrant floating village life of Tonle Sap. With its carefully curated itinerary and inclusion of key sites, this tour provides a comprehensive and enriching glimpse into Cambodia’s rich heritage and diverse landscapes.
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