Step into Cambodia’s holy mountain on our special day trip from Siem Reap. Phnom Kulen, Kulen National Park isn’t just beautiful—it’s the birthplace of the mighty Khmer Empire in 802 AD and a place both Hindus and Buddhists hold dear. Your trip starts with a drive up the mountain road. Our first stop is the Valley View Point where you can see amazing views of the green forests that cover the national park. Take photos or just enjoy the peaceful scene below. Next, we walk to the River of a Thousand Lingas. This special stream has old carvings all over its riverbed. Long ago, kings made these Shiva symbols to bless the water that flowed to their cities. You can get a traditional Cambodian blessing with this holy water if you like. At the top of the mountain, you’ll find a pretty pagoda with the famous Reclining Buddha statue. Feel the calm spirit of this place as you walk around. For our last stop, we visit the magical Kulen Waterfall. Here you can swim in the cool water or just watch local families enjoy their sacred place. While you relax, we serve a tasty lunch of rice and fried chicken with your choice of beer or soft drink. Fresh fruits will make your meal complete. Our small group (no more than 14 people) means you get lots of attention from your guide. The paths are easy to walk, so you don’t need to be a hiker to enjoy this trip. You’ll head back to Siem Reap with great memories and a better understanding of Cambodia’s rich heritage.

THE NATIONAL PARK KULEN AND BENG MEALEA (Full Day)

This tour will take you out of town for most of the day. Early morning we venture out and away to the cooler climes of Kulen Moutain. Considered the most sacred mountain in Cambodia and extremely popular with locals over weekends and during festival days. Over 30 different temple ruins have been identified, scattered over the mountain range. It is here that Jayavarman II united the different regions and proclaimed independence from Java in 802 AD. It is difficult to reach the stepped temple itself as it is in a heavily land mined area of the forest on the higher area of the hills, but a short way through the forest will take us to an area with extensive river carvings. Many lingas have been etched into the bedrock under the water to purify and give power to the water flows over them to the fertile plain below. Visit massive reclining Buddha carved into stone on hill, and then while away the time with a visit to the water falls—bring a towel to enjoy a refreshing dip! Bring a picnic or discuss with your guide options for lunch along the way.