How to Plan Your Phnom Kulen Waterfall National Park Tour in Angkor Wat
Are you planning a trip to Angkor Wat and looking for an adventure beyond the stunning temples? Consider taking a day trip to Phnom Kulen Waterfall National Park, located just north of Siem Reap. This tour takes you through stunning natural scenery, with opportunities to see ancient Buddhist monuments, swim beneath the falls, and trek around Kulen Mountain. This full-day tour with a maximum of 10 people offers a hassle-free pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Siem Reap.
Overview
The Phnom Kulen National Park offers a spectacular landscape that makes for an amazing day trip from Siem Reap. On this tour, you’ll start the day with hotel pickup at 8:30 am and head to Phnom Kulen Waterfall National Park. With your English-speaking guide, you’ll have the opportunity to take in all the highlights, including:
– Trekking around Kulen Mountain, where you’ll get to see magnificent views
– Swimming beneath the stunning Kulen Waterfall
– Taking a guided trek along the sacred River of a Thousand Lingas
– Learning about the ancient Buddhist monuments and their significance with your knowledgeable guide
This small-group tour is a great way to discover Angkor Wat’s hidden beauty while getting to know other travelers from around the world.
What’s Included
When you book this tour, you’ll receive:
– Pickup and drop-off service from your hotel in Siem Reap
– Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
– An English-speaking guide
– Mineral water
Please note that food and drinks are not included in the tour price.
Meeting and Pickup
The tour starts with pickup from your hotel in Siem Reap. Please be ready between 7:30 am – 8:30 am for the guide to pick you up. You’ll be transported in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle to the national park.
What to Expect
This tour is ideal for those who want to go beyond Angkor Wat’s temples and discover more about Cambodia’s natural beauty. The tour starts with a scenic drive out of Siem Reap, where you’ll pass through local villages and stunning countryside. Once you arrive at the national park, you’ll have the chance to trek around the base of Kulen Mountain, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Next, you’ll visit the sacred River of a Thousand Lingas, and marvel at the riverbed’s carved sandstone riverbed with lingams (phallic symbols) honoring the Hindu god Shiva. Your guide will explain the significance of these carvings.
Then, you’ll head to the Kulen Waterfall, one of the national park’s most popular and well-known sites. You can swim in the waterfall’s cool, refreshing waters, or relax on the surrounding banks.
After a day of exploring these stunning natural wonders, you’ll be transported back to your hotel in Siem Reap, arriving around 5:00 pm.
Additional Info
Please note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible.
Confirmation of your booking will be received at the time of booking. But, please be ready for pickup between 7:30 am – 8:30 am.
Book the Tour Here
Ready to book your tour to Phnom Kulen Waterfall National Park? Viator (a TripAdvisor company) offers hassle-free online booking for this tour. Click the link below to book your tour today!
Conclusion
If you’re looking to take a break from temple hopping in Angkor Wat and explore the natural beauty of Cambodia, plan a tour to Phnom Kulen Waterfall National Park. With stunning views, ancient monuments, and the chance to swim in the falls, this tour has something for everyone. Book your tour today for an unforgettable adventure in Angkor Wat.
Frequently Asked Questions About Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat, located in Cambodia, is a famous temple complex that attracts millions of visitors from all around the world every year. The temple complex is full of history and culture, which can be overwhelming for visitors. In order to help you plan your visit and make the most out of your Angkor Wat experience, we’ve put together a list of the most frequently asked questions about Angkor Wat.
1. What is Angkor Wat?
Angkor Wat is a temple complex in the city of Siem Reap, Cambodia. It was constructed in the 12th century by the Khmer King Suryavarman II as a Hindu temple, but it was later converted to a Buddhist temple. The temple complex covers over 400 acres and includes numerous buildings and structures. It is famous for its intricate carvings, stunning architecture, and rich history.
2. When is the best time to visit Angkor Wat?
The best time to visit Angkor Wat is between November and March when the weather is dry and cool. During this time, you can expect clear blue skies and moderate temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the temple complex. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect large crowds and high prices. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October).
3. How much time do I need to explore Angkor Wat?
To explore the entire Angkor Wat complex, you will need at least two full days. The complex is quite large, and there is a lot to see and explore. You can break up your visit into smaller sections and spend a few hours exploring each area. If you are short on time, you can also do a quick one-day tour, but keep in mind that you won’t be able to see everything.
4. How should I dress when visiting Angkor Wat?
Angkor Wat is a sacred site, and visitors are expected to dress appropriately. Men and women should wear tops that cover their shoulders and long pants or skirts that cover their knees. Shoes must be worn at all times. Avoid wearing revealing clothing or any clothing with offensive messages or designs.
5. Do I need a guide to explore Angkor Wat?
While it is not required to have a guide to explore Angkor Wat, we highly recommend hiring one. A knowledgeable guide can help you understand the history and significance of the temple complex and can also help you navigate your way through the complex. Guides can be hired at the entrance to the temple.
6. How do I get to Angkor Wat?
The closest city to Angkor Wat is Siem Reap, which has an international airport. From the airport, you can take a taxi or tuk-tuk to get to the temple complex. You can also take a bus or minivan from other major cities in Cambodia, such as Phnom Penh.
7. Can I bring food and drinks into the temple complex?
No, you are not allowed to bring food or drinks into the temple complex. There are several restaurants and food vendors located on-site, offering a range of Cambodian and international cuisine. You can also bring a packed lunch and have a picnic in one of the designated areas outside the temple complex.
8. Are there any restrictions on photography?
Photography is allowed at Angkor Wat, but there are some restrictions. You are not allowed to use flash photography inside the temple or in areas where it may damage the artwork. Drones are also strictly prohibited. Be respectful of the sacred site and avoid taking inappropriate pictures.
9. Is Angkor Wat accessible for people with disabilities?
Angkor Wat is a historic site and was not designed with accessibility in mind. However, there are some areas of the temple complex that are accessible, such as the main entrance, the front courtyard, and the first level of the temple. It is recommended that visitors with disabilities visit with a caregiver.
10. Are there any customs or traditions I should be aware of when visiting Angkor Wat?
Yes, there are a few customs and traditions that you should be aware of when visiting Angkor Wat. Visitors should dress conservatively, remove their shoes before entering any temple, and avoid touching any statues or artwork. It is also customary to make a small donation when visiting a temple, which goes towards the upkeep of the site.
Conclusion
Visiting Angkor Wat can be a life-changing experience, but it can also be overwhelming. By knowing the answers to these frequently asked questions, you can plan your visit and make the most out of your time at this historic site. Remember to dress appropriately, hire a guide, and be respectful of the sacred site.
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