When visiting Krong Siem Reap in Cambodia, you’re not limited to just visiting the world famous temples in The Angkor Wat temple complex. Siem Reap has many great tourist attractions and there are so many things to do in Siem Reap.
Phnom Kulen (often referred to as Kulen Mountain or Kulen National Park) is located 48km from Siem Reap centre. Phnom Kulen roughly translates to “Mountain of the lychees” in English, which gets its name from the large amount of lychee trees that used to be in the area.
According to local history, it was at Phnom Kulen that King Jayavarman II declared independence in 802 CE, declaring himself a God King (Devaraja) and beginning the reign of the Khmer Empire. The slopes of Phnom Kulen were the home of the ancient Khmer city Mahendraparvata, which pre-dates Angkor Wat by roughly 350 years. Phnom Kulen played an important role in Cambodian history and the mountain itself is considered sacred. Because of this, the site is incredibly popular among local Cambodians who will journey there frequently, especially on important national holidays, to visit the pagoda or to bathe in the refreshing waters under the waterfall.
How do I get there?
In general, you will need to book a car or van (or join a guided tour!) to take you up the mountain road of Phnom Kulen National Park as the road is steep and tuktuks are unable to make the climb. If you’re in good health and enjoy hiking, you could get a Tuktuk to the base of the mountain where the ticket office is located, and hike your way up the mountain to visit the various points of interest. Whilst a difficult walk, you’ll be able to fully take in your surroundings as you make your way up.
From the centre of Siem Reap, Phnom Kulen is located roughly 48km away and the full journey will take 1.5-2hrs total in a car. Please note you’ll need to head out early, the road up the mountain operates on a time restricted one way system. You may only drive up the mountain before 11am, and after this time the flow of traffic reverses and you may only drive down.
How much does it cost to go to Phnom Kulen National Park?
For foreigners to Cambodia, the entrance fee to the national park itself is $20. When you arrive at the base of Phnom Kulen there is a barrier and a ticket office where you can purchase your entrance ticket. You can also buy it in advance at various locations around Siem Reap town. If you’re part of a guided tour, or have hired a driver, they will likely arrange your tickets in advance for you but please make sure to confirm this with them directly. Similar to other Cambodian heritage sites, entrance is free for Cambodian nationals.
Bear in mind, you will also need to pay for either transport, or transport with a guide. We personally recommend having a guide as they will be able to explain the history and significance of the various sites. Many tuk tuk drivers will be able to arrange a car to take you to Phnom Kulen National Park and will often join you and talk you through what you’re seeing. We recommend speaking to your hotel or a local travel agent to go through your options.
What is there to do and see at Phnom Kulen National Park?
Great Plateau Viewpoint
On your way up the mountain, there is a large rock plateau which is just off the main road that serves as a breathtaking viewpoint over the surrounding jungle and scenery. If you’re heading up the mountain with a driver, they will usually stop here for you to take some beautiful photos. Mention this to your driver or guide when you set off to make sure you don’t miss this opportunity as there are not many other places in Cambodia where you’ll see such an incredible view.
Phnom Kulen Waterfalls and market
The national park is home to two waterfalls, which are arguably the main attraction on a trip to Kulen Mountain. The waterfalls are accessed a short walk from a parking area that leads through a small market. The market itself sells lots of souvenirs though they are priced slightly higher than you can find in town. Here you can also purchase cold drinks or snacks.
The main waterfalls themselves fluctuate in size depending on the time of year. If you visit in dry season (October-April) there will be a lot less water than if you visited in wet season (May-September) so the waterfalls will be less impressive, but still a great place to check out and have a dip. The main waterfall and the larger of the two is a very popular place for locals to swim in the cool and refreshing water, so bring swimming gear and relax to the sound of crashing water!
If you don’t have swimming gear with you, there are locals selling them, and they also have changing rooms and locker boxes which you can use for a small fee.
Slightly upriver from the larger waterfall, there are wooden huts or mats on the floor alongside the river available to rent as this is somewhere many locals will come for picnics and to enjoy a day out with their family. Cooked food is available here and there are people around who will approach you with menus or show you to a seating area if this is something you want!
Kbal Spean
Kbal Spean or “The Valley of a thousand lingas” is a site within Phnom Kulen National Park. The site is home to a series of stone rock relief carvings which are carved into sandstone formations of the river bed and the banks of the river. Many of the carvings are of “Lingas” which is the name for the phallic emblem of Shiva, one of the principal Hindu deities.
A very impressive sight to see, Kbal spean is sometimes sought out by local holistic doctors and is also visited by locals who seek the natural powers or blessings that are said to be contained within the holy waters of the site. It is believed that the waters there are able to help couples who are looking to conceive. The water levels here vary, and if you visit during dry season you’ll be able to get a much clearer view of these impressive carvings.
Preah Ang Thom Pagoda
Preah Ang Thom is a large (8 metres tall and the largest in Cambodia) statue of the reclining Buddha reaching nirvana located within Phnom Kulen National Park. The impressive statue is estimated to have been carved into a large sandstone boulder around the 16th century (Post-Angkorian era). It is located within a large active pagoda and is a sacred holy site, so we recommend dressing conservatively out of respect and politeness for local customs. Upon entering the Pagoda, you will also need to remove your shoes and store them at the racks provided.
How long do I need to spend at Phnom Kulen National Park?
Most tour guides or travel agents will offer either a half day or full day tour. The time you need will depend on your preferences, but if you want to really take in all of the sights we recommend a full day tour. This will also allow you plenty of time for swimming at the waterfall, grabbing some delicious cooked lunch, and relaxing in the natural surroundings!
Once you return back to Siem Reap town, don’t forget to check out some of Siem Reap’s incredible restaurants for dinner, by CLICKING HERE.
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