Phnom Kulen National Park

Phnom Kulen National Park, about 50 km from Siem Reap, is a sacred mountain and lush retreat known for waterfalls, forest trails, and riverbed carvings. Highlights include Kbal Spean’s “River of a Thousand Lingas,” the reclining Buddha at Preah Ang Thom, and viewpoints over the Kulen plateau. Visitors come for a blend of Angkor-era history, living pilgrimage traditions, and a cooling swim beneath waterfalls. The trip involves bumpy roads and an entrance fee; go early for fewer crowds and milder heat. Best for travelers seeking nature, light hiking, and cultural context beyond Angkor’s main temples.