How to Plan Your Guided Kulen Waterfall Tour in Siem Reap

Siem Reap is a fascinating city located in northwest Cambodia renowned for its ancient temples and ruins, and it serves as a gateway to the Angkor Archaeological Park. But there’s much more to see beyond those temples, and one of the standout attractions in the region is the Phnom Kulen National Park. This site is steeped in historical significance, and on this guided Kulen Waterfall Tour, you are in for an unforgettable journey of discovery.

Experience

This tour is an excellent option for those wanting to explore Kulen Mountain, also known as Mountain of the Lychee, with an experienced guide. It’s an opportunity to discover the natural and archaeological highlights of the site and surrounding areas. From exploring ancient temples to taking a refreshing swim in the waters of Kulen Waterfall and learning about palm sugar production, there are many reasons to take this tour.

Highlights

The Kulen Waterfall tour offers a range of exciting highlights, including the chance to:

Discover Kulen Mountain’s natural and archaeological highlights on a guided tour

Kulen Mountain is a vital site in Cambodia’s history and is known as the birthplace of the ancient Khmer Empire. During this tour, you will visit the magnificent reclining Buddha statue and explore hilltop temples in ruins that were built during the ninth and tenth centuries.

Admire the impressive 1000 Lingas riverside archaeological site

The 1000 Lingas river is an ancient Khmer site up in the Kulen Mountain range. Naga sculptures and lingam stones embellish a riverbed carved into the sandstone.

Take a refreshing swim in the waters of Kulen Waterfall

The Kulen Waterfall is one of the region’s most striking natural attractions. A quick hike brings you to the site, where natural water stones and refreshing pools await, helping to cool off after a long day.

Learn about palm sugar production in a local village

The tour includes stops at Thmey Village, where you will learn about how the locals make palm sugar, watch their unique technique, and have a chance to taste the delicious sugar.

Full Description

When you book the Kulen Waterfall tour, you will get to see the following:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off from Siem Reap
• Guided tour of Phnom Kulen National Park
• Park entry fees
• Water
• Landmine Museum entry

It’s not suitable for:

• Wheelchair users
• People over 70 years

How to Book Your Tour

Booking the Guided Kulen Waterfall Tour in Siem Reap is easy. Just follow these steps:

1. Click on this link to be redirected to GetYourGuide’s tour page.
2. Select your preferred date of travel, the number of travelers in your group, and click “book now.”
3. Enter all necessary information and continue to the payment page.
4. Select your preferred payment method and complete the booking.
5. An email confirmation will be sent to you shortly after you complete the booking.

The Bottom Line

The Phnom Kulen National Park, particularly with this tour, will leave an everlasting impression on those looking to explore the more natural features of Siem Reap. The Kulen Waterfall tour is a must-do activity for those wanting to discover this region’s heritage and get a taste for local culture. The impressive historical ruins, stunning landscape, and natural sites contribute to an unforgettable experience that won’t disappoint any travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions about Siem Reap

1. What is Siem Reap known for?

Siem Reap is best known for being the gateway city to the Angkor temples, the world-famous ancient ruins that were once the heart of the Khmer empire. Millions of tourists visit Siem Reap every year to explore the temples and learn about the history and culture of Cambodia.

2. When is the best time to visit Siem Reap?

The best time to visit Siem Reap is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. The weather is cooler and less humid during this time, which makes it more comfortable for tourists to explore the temples and other attractions. The wet season, which runs from May to October, is hot and humid, with frequent rain showers that can make touring difficult.

3. What are the best things to do in Siem Reap?

Aside from visiting the Angkor temples, there are plenty of other things to see and do in Siem Reap. Some popular attractions include the Landmine Museum, the Pub Street night market, the Phare Cambodian Circus, and the floating village of Kampong Phluk. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hiking in the Kulen Mountain National Park and exploring the Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve.

4. How much does it cost to visit the Angkor temples?

The cost of a one-day pass to the Angkor temples is currently $37 USD. A three-day pass is $62 USD, and a seven-day pass is $72 USD. These passes can be purchased at the official ticket booths near the entrance to the temple complex.

5. What is the dress code for visiting the Angkor temples?

Visitors to the Angkor temples are expected to dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered. This is a sign of respect for the culture and traditions of Cambodia. It is also recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

6. What is the best way to get around Siem Reap?

The most convenient way to get around Siem Reap is by tuk-tuk, a three-wheeled motorized vehicle that is similar to a taxi. Tuk-tuks are readily available throughout the city and can be hired for a reasonable price. Some hotels and tour operators also offer bicycle and scooter rentals for tourists who want to explore on their own.

7. What is the local cuisine like in Siem Reap?

Siem Reap is known for its tasty and affordable street food, which includes dishes like amok (fish covered in coconut milk and spices), lok lak (beef stir-fried with vegetables), and kuy teav (a rice noodle soup with pork or seafood). There are also plenty of restaurants in the city that serve international cuisine, as well as upscale Khmer restaurants that offer fine dining experiences.

8. Is Siem Reap a safe place for tourists?

Siem Reap is generally a safe place for tourists, with low rates of violent crime. However, visitors should be aware of pickpocketing and other petty crimes, especially in crowded tourist areas. It is also recommended to avoid drinking tap water and to only eat food from reputable restaurants and vendors.

9. What are some cultural customs and traditions to be aware of when visiting Siem Reap?

Visitors to Siem Reap should be aware of the local customs and traditions in order to show respect for the local culture. Some things to keep in mind include: removing your shoes before entering temples and private homes, using your right hand to give or accept objects (as the left hand is considered unclean), and refraining from public displays of affection. It is also polite to greet people with a “sampeah”, which is a traditional Cambodian gesture of respect.

10. What souvenirs should I buy in Siem Reap?

Siem Reap is a great place to pick up traditional Khmer handicrafts and souvenirs, such as silk scarves, wood carvings, and silver jewelry. Some popular shopping spots include the Old Market, the Angkor Night Market and Made in Cambodia Market. It is important to note that some souvenirs, such as items made from endangered or protected species, are illegal to purchase and should be avoided.

Book Your Tour Now

Siem Reap is a fascinating and vibrant city that offers visitors a rich cultural experience. Whether you are exploring the ancient temples, sampling local cuisine, or shopping for souvenirs, there is something for everyone in this unique destination.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Siem Reap

Siem Reap is a popular tourist destination in Cambodia, best known for being the gateway to the Angkor Wat temples. While Angkor Wat is undoubtedly the main drawcard, there are many other things to do and see in Siem Reap. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your time in this fascinating city.

1. Angkor Wat and the Angkor Archaeological Park

Undoubtedly the most famous attraction in Siem Reap is Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it attracts millions of visitors each year. The complex is huge, so it’s best to allow at least a few hours to explore it properly. Some of the other temples not to be missed include Bayon, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Srei.

2. Floating Villages on Tonle Sap Lake

Tonle Sap Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and is home to several floating villages. These villages are essentially entire communities that live on water, with houses, schools, and even basketball courts floating on rafts of bamboo. Taking a boat tour to visit these villages is a great way to learn about traditional Cambodian life.

3. Night Markets

Siem Reap’s night markets are a great place to experience local culture and pick up souvenirs. The most famous one is the Angkor Night Market, which has over 200 stalls selling everything from handicrafts to street food. The Made in Cambodia Market, located near the Old Market, is another great option for eco-friendly and locally made products.

4. Artisans Angkor

Artisans Angkor is a social business that aims to revive traditional Khmer craftsmanship and provide employment opportunities for young people in rural communities. The workshops produce a range of products made from silk, wood, stone, and silver, and visitors can take a tour to see the artisans at work.

5. Siem Reap Food Tour

Cambodian cuisine is often overlooked in the region, but it’s slowly gaining recognition for its unique flavors and textures. Taking a food tour is a great way to experience this cuisine first-hand and learn about the cultural influences behind it. Some popular dishes to try include fish amok (a steamed fish curry in banana leaves) and lok lak (a stir-fried beef dish with a sweet and sour sauce).

6. Visit the Landmine Museum

Cambodia is one of the most heavily landmine-affected countries in the world, with an estimated 4-6 million landmines still in the ground. The Landmine Museum in Siem Reap is run by a former child soldier, Aki Ra, and is dedicated to raising awareness about the landmine issue in Cambodia. Visitors can learn about the history of landmines, see demining equipment, and hear stories from landmine victims.

7. Visit Phnom Kulen National Park

Phnom Kulen National Park is located about an hour’s drive from Siem Reap and is known for its waterfalls, ancient ruins, and picturesque scenery. There are several temples and pagodas in the park, including the Preah Ang Thom pagoda, which houses a huge reclining Buddha statue carved into a sandstone boulder. The waterfalls are also popular for swimming and picnicking.

8. War Museum Cambodia

The War Museum Cambodia is located about 10 kilometers south of Siem Reap and is dedicated to documenting the Khmer Rouge era in Cambodia. The museum has a large collection of military vehicles and weaponry from the 1970s and 1980s, as well as photos and personal stories from survivors of the Khmer Rouge regime.

Book Your Tour Now

Siem Reap is a fascinating city with a rich history and culture. While Angkor Wat is the main drawcard, there are many other things to do and see in the area. From visiting floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake to trying local Khmer cuisine on a food tour, there’s something for everyone in Siem Reap. Make sure to plan your itinerary ahead of time so that you can make the most of your visit to this amazing city.