Located roughly 50 km north of central Siem Reap, the Phnom Kulen Waterfalls feature two main tiers: a 4 – 5 meter upper cascade and a 15 – 20 meter lower cascade. They serve as a popular swimming and picnic spot, deeply revered as the birthplace of the ancient Khmer Empire.

Phnom Kulen Waterfalls

Phnom Kulen Day Tour Itinerary

  • 08:00 AM – Hotel Pickup Begin the day with a prompt pickup from your Siem Reap accommodation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
  • 08:30 AM – Countryside & Cultural Insight Drive through the scenic village of Phum Preah Dak. We will make a brief stop to observe local artisans engaged in traditional palm sugar production.
  • 10:30 AM – River of 1,000 Lingas Arrive at the national park for a guided walk along the riverbed to view the remarkable, centuries-old underwater archaeological carvings.
  • 11:30 AM – Kulen Waterfalls & Lunch Reach the iconic two-tier waterfalls. You will have ample time to swim, relax, and enjoy a traditional Khmer lunch nearby.
  • 02:00 PM – Preah Ang Thom Pagoda Visit the active hilltop monastery to view the spectacular 17-meter reclining Buddha, beautifully carved directly into the natural sandstone.
  • 03:00 PM – Return Journey Depart the mountain area for your return transfer, arriving back at your Siem Reap hotel at approximately 04:30 PM.

Important General Information:

Entrance Fees: Please note that Phnom Kulen National Park requires a dedicated park ticket ($20 USD per foreign visitor). This is separate from the standard Angkor Archaeological Pass.

Who is it Best Suited For?

This well-paced, balanced itinerary is perfect for:

  • Families & First-Timers: Combines culture, history, religion, and nature for a complete local experience without temple fatigue.
  • Swimmers & Leisure Seekers: The 2.5-hour midday waterfall break allows plenty of time to eat, relax, and swim without rushing.
  • Photography Lovers: Offers diverse, scenic shots from steaming palm sugar pots to river carvings and the massive rock Buddha.

Best Time to Visit

  • November to February (Cool & Dry): Excellent road conditions, pleasant walking weather, and a crystal-clear waterfall pool.
  • Weekdays (Monday to Friday): Skip the heavy weekend picnic crowds to enjoy a much quieter, more peaceful experience at the sacred sites.

How to Go?

  • Private SUV or Minivan: A comfortable, dust-free choice (like a Toyota Highlander or Hyundai Starex) with the engine power needed for the steep mountain climb.
  • One-Way Road Rule: The mountain road only allows upward traffic until 11:00 AM, which perfectly matches your 10:30 AM arrival.
  • Park Tickets: National Park entry is $20 USD per person for international visitors. Check if your tour includes this or if you buy it at the checkpoint.

Tour Recommendations & Packing Tips

  • Dress Code: You must cover shoulders and knees at the 2:00 PM monastery visit. Bring a lightweight sarong or dry clothes to change into after swimming.
  • Footwear: Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking sandals or sneakers. The steps and riverbed paths get wet and very slippery.
  • Swim Gear: Bring a swimsuit, quick-dry towel, and a waterproof bag to protect your phone and cash from the waterfall mist.