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Phnom Kulen: Siem Reap's Sacred Mountain
When the heat of Siem Reap gets too much, there's one place everyone goes to cool off: Phnom Kulen. This sacred mountain is considered the birthplace of the Khmer Empire. It is home to a stunning jungle, ancient riverbed carvings, and the country's most famous swimming holes.
1.5 - 2 hours from Siem Reap.
$20 USD (Not included in Angkor Pass).
Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and cash.
⚠️ Crucial Road Rule
The road up the mountain is narrow and one-way. Traffic can only go UP before 11:00 AM and DOWN after 12:00 PM. If you sleep in and miss the morning window, you cannot visit!
More Than Just a Waterfall
1. The Waterfalls
The main attraction is the two-tiered waterfall. The lower level is a powerful 20-meter drop into a large swimming hole. The water is cool and refreshing year-round. You can rent a wooden platform nearby to have a picnic lunch Khmer-style!
2. River of a Thousand Lingas
Just upstream from the waterfall, look down into the riverbed. You will see thousands of ancient lingas (phallic symbols) carved directly into the stone floor under the water. The Khmer kings believed these carvings blessed the water before it flowed down to feed the rice paddies of Angkor.
3. Preah Ang Thom
At the mountain's peak sits a 16th-century pagoda housing a massive Reclining Buddha. What makes it special? The Buddha wasn't built on top of the rock—it was carved out of the top of a giant natural sandstone boulder. The views from here are spectacular.
Pro Tip: Transport
The road up the mountain is very steep. While some powerful motorbikes can make it, most standard tuk-tuks will struggle or overheat. We strongly recommend hiring a private car or van for this trip.
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