Phnom Kulen National Park

The basics

The mountain of Phnom Kulen, the centerpiece of this national park, is one of Cambodian Buddhists’ most sacred mountains. Join the pilgrims worshiping at the mountain’s temples, and visit Kulen Falls to swim, lounge in the shade, or picnic. Other highlights include the reclining Buddha at Preah Ang Thom Pagoda and the Khmer carvings of Kbal Spean (River of a Thousand Lingas); you’ll need to carry a ticket to the Angkor temple complex to access Kbal Spean.

Things to know before you go

• Only cars can manage the steep drive up the mountain; if you arrive by tuk-tuk, you’ll need to make a 2-hour hike to the summit.

• As at other holy sites in Cambodia, visitors should dress modestly, with clothing that covers knees and elbows.

• The park’s pathways are uneven and can be slippery and might be a challenge for some visitors; be sure to wear sturdy footwear.

• Phnom Kulen National Park is on the same road as Banteay Srei, and the two sights can be combined in one trip.

How to get there

Phnom Kulen National Park is located on Route 67, about 29 miles (47 km.) north of Siem Reap and about a 2-hour drive from the city. Within the park, the road is just a one-way dirt track that snakes steeply up the mountain. Hike to the summit, or hire a car to drive you all the way to the top.

When to get there

The one-way road to the summit changes direction every day around 11am or noon: cars may go up in the morning and may come back in the afternoon. So if you’re planning to drive, you’ll need to hire a car for the day, arrive by mid-day, and then wait until the afternoon to descend. Alternatively, opt for a tour includes transportation.

Swimming in Phnom Kulen National Park

The natural pools beneath the park’s waterfall are ideal for cooling off on steamy days. Bring a bathing suit and towel, and consider packing a pair of sturdy, waterproof sandals as the surrounding rocks can be slippery. Lock boxes for storing valuables are available for rent by the swimming area.

Can visitors swim in the waterfalls or rivers at Phnom Kulen National Park?

Yes, you can swim at Phnom Kulen National Park, so pack swimwear and a towel when you go. The main swimming spot in the park is the large pool below Kulen Waterfall, with lockers and bathing suit rental facilities nearby. Remember, you will need proper clothes to visit local temples.

Are there any hiking trails or viewpoints for exploring Phnom Kulen National Park?

Yes, walking and hiking trails run through Phnom Kulen National Park, including trails to waterfalls and a hike from the mountain’s base to the main sites. One of the best accessible viewpoints is Poeng Ta Kho (aka the “Amazing Cliff”), a rocky platform with views to the national park below.

Is it possible to see the reclining Buddha statue at Phnom Kulen National Park?

Yes, visiting the reclining Buddha statue at Preah Ang Thom is one of the main things to do at Phnom Kulen National Park. Once you’ve climbed the temple’s long staircase, you get to see the largest reclining Buddha in Cambodia and also fountains, boulders, and views of the surrounding treetops.

Are there any restrictions or guidelines visitors should follow while visiting Phnom Kulen National Park?

Yes. One of the main restrictions at Phnom Kulen National Park is traffic. The road is one-way up the mountain until around midday, when it becomes one-way going down the mountain. It’s also important to dress appropriately when visiting the park’s temples and to remove your shoes when going inside.

Are there any admission fees or permits required to enter Phnom Kulen National Park?

Yes, foreign nationals must pay an admission fee to visit Phnom Kulen National Park. You can buy tickets online or at the ticket office at the park’s entrance gate. Most tours from Siem Reap to Phnom Kulen include entry, so you won’t need to purchase it separately on a tour.

What dining options or facilities are available within Phnom Kulen National Park?

You will find places to get food when visiting the most popular areas of Phnom Kulen National Park. Food stalls line the streets around the Preah Ang Thom Pagoda, and you can order food at small restaurants above Kulen Waterfall and eat in one of the gazebos there.