Phnom Kulen: The Sacred Mountain

Explore Phnom Kulen, the birthplace of the Khmer Empire, with its ancient temples, sacred river carvings, and stunning natural beauty.

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Phnom Kulen, or Kulen Mountain, holds immense historical and spiritual significance for Cambodia. As the birthplace of the ancient Khmer Empire, it features ancient temples, the River of a Thousand Lingas, a giant reclining Buddha, and stunning waterfalls, making it a unique destination for both pilgrims and tourists.

A brief summary to Phnom Kulen

Local tips

Arrive before 11 am to drive to the mountain's summit, as the road operates on a one-way system.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
Bring comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the various attractions.
Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the sites.
Swimming at the waterfall, dress conservatively.

Getting There

Car/Van

From Siem Reap, Phnom Kulen is approximately 48km away, a 1.5-2 hour journey by car or van. Follow the road towards Banteay Srei, then turn right before reaching the temple to head towards the entrance of Phnom Kulen National Park. A private taxi/car for the day is around $50 USD, and vans from $60-80 USD. Note that the road up the mountain is one-way, allowing uphill traffic before 11 am and downhill traffic after midday. The entrance fee to the National Park is $20 USD per person, payable at the ticket office near the mountain's base.
Tuk-tuk & Hiking

For a more adventurous approach, take a tuk-tuk from Siem Reap to the base of Phnom Kulen. Negotiate the price beforehand, typically around $20-$30 USD for the round trip. From the base, hike up the mountain to the various points of interest. Be prepared for a challenging 2-hour trek each way. Remember to purchase your park entrance ticket ($20 USD) at the ticket office before starting your ascent.

Discover more about Phnom Kulen

Phnom Kulen, meaning 'Mountain of the Lychees,' is more than just a scenic peak; it's the birthplace of the Khmer Empire. In 802 CE, King Jayavarman II declared independence from Java here, initiating the Devaraja cult and setting the stage for the Angkor period. The mountain served as the capital, Mahendraparvata, and was later developed by Udayadityavarman II, becoming a metropolis of temples and residences. Today, Phnom Kulen is a national park attracting visitors with its historical and natural wonders. The most famous sites include the River of a Thousand Lingas (Kbal Spean), where carvings adorn the riverbed, and Preah Ang Thom, a 16th-century Buddhist monastery housing Cambodia's largest reclining Buddha. The Kulen Waterfall offers a refreshing break, while the more adventurous can explore Sra Damrei (Elephant Pond) and the Bat Cave. Despite its beauty and significance, Phnom Kulen faced periods of abandonment and conflict, including use as a stronghold by the Khmer Rouge. Now a protected area, it remains a vital pilgrimage site and a testament to Cambodia's rich heritage.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Banteay Srei Temple

12.4 km

Discover Banteay Srei, the 'Citadel of Women': A jewel of Khmer art with intricate carvings and stunning red sandstone architecture.

Krol Ko

22.8 km

Discover Krol Ko, a serene 12th-century Buddhist temple in Angkor Archaeological Park with unique carvings and a peaceful atmosphere.

Prasat Top (East)

23.5 km

Discover Prasat Top (East), Angkor Thom's hidden gem: a serene Hindu temple offering a tranquil escape into Khmer spiritual heritage.

The Goddess Prajnaparamita

25.4 km

Discover the ancient beauty and spiritual significance of The Goddess Prajnaparamita, an archaeological gem in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Prasat Chrung Southeast

27.3 km

Discover Prasat Chrung Southeast, a serene and historically rich temple offering panoramic views within the ancient city of Angkor Thom.

Banteay Thom Temple

27.4 km

Discover Banteay Thom, a hidden gem of the Angkor era, offering tranquility and a unique glimpse into Khmer history and artistry away from the crowds.

Tonle Om Gate (Southern Gate)

28.5 km

Discover the majestic Tonle Om Gate, a breathtaking gateway to the ancient city of Angkor Thom and a symbol of the Khmer Empire's grandeur.

Chey Non Stupa

28.8 km

Discover the poignant story of the Chey Non Stupa, a unique historical landmark within the majestic Angkor Wat complex.

Unmissable attractions to see

Kulen waterfall

3.7 km

Discover the enchanting beauty of Kulen Waterfall, a tranquil oasis surrounded by lush landscapes in Cambodia, perfect for relaxation and adventure.

Poeng Ta Kho (Amazing Cliff)

4.4 km

Explore the stunning views and cultural richness of Poeng Ta Kho, the Amazing Cliff in Banteay Srei, Cambodia – a true gem for nature lovers.

Elephant Pond-Srah Damrei

9.6 km

Explore Elephant Pond-Srah Damrei: An enchanting archaeological site in Cambodia, rich in history and natural beauty.

Phnom Kulen National Park

10.8 km

Explore Phnom Kulen National Park: Discover ancient temples, stunning waterfalls, and the birthplace of the Khmer Empire in Cambodia.

Banteay Srei

12.1 km

Discover the enchanting beauty of Banteay Srei, the 'Citadel of Women,' a UNESCO site showcasing exquisite Khmer architecture and intricate carvings.

Angkor Center for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB)

12.6 km

Discover Cambodia's wildlife at the Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity, dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and breeding endangered species.

Angkor Center for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB)

Kbal Spean

13.9 km

Discover the sacred River of a Thousand Lingas at Kbal Spean, an ancient Angkorian site with intricately carved riverbeds and stunning natural beauty.

Cambodia Landmine Museum

14.5 km

Discover the Cambodia Landmine Museum, where history meets hope, and learn about the ongoing fight against landmines in Cambodia.

Phnom Bok Temple

15.7 km

Discover the serene beauty of Phnom Bok Temple in Krong Siem Reap, a historic site that offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Phnom Bok

15.8 km

Explore Phnom Bok, a serene Hindu temple in Siem Reap, where stunning landscapes meet rich cultural heritage for an unforgettable experience.

Banteay Srey Butterfly Centre (BBC)

16.3 km

Explore the Banteay Srey Butterfly Centre, a vibrant sanctuary showcasing thousands of butterflies in a stunning garden setting near Angkor.

Chaw Srei Vibol Temple

18.4 km

Explore the tranquil beauty and rich history of Chaw Srei Vibol Temple, a hidden gem in Cambodia that showcases exquisite Khmer architecture.

Banteay Samre

19.4 km

Explore Banteay Samre, a remarkable Hindu temple in Siem Reap, showcasing stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Boeng Mealea

19.9 km

Discover the untamed beauty of Boeng Mealea, a sprawling jungle temple offering a unique and adventurous glimpse into the Angkorian era.

Prasat Beng Mealea

20.0 km

Explore the captivating Prasat Beng Mealea, a hidden Khmer temple surrounded by lush jungle, rich history, and stunning architecture.

Essential places to dine

Spean Youl Waterfall Kulen Mountain Restaurant (អាហារដ្ឋាន ស្ពានយោលទឹកជ្រោះភ្នំគូលេន)

3.6 km

Experience delectable fast food amidst breathtaking natural beauty at Spean Youl Waterfall Kulen Mountain Restaurant.

Spean Youl Waterfall Kulen Mountain Restaurant (អាហារដ្ឋាន ស្ពានយោលទឹកជ្រោះភ្នំគូលេន)

Prasat Banteay srey restaurant

12.0 km

Experience authentic Khmer cuisine at Prasat Banteay Srey Restaurant near the iconic temple of Banteay Srei.

Mey Mey Local restaurant

12.6 km

Experience the essence of Cambodia at Mey Mey Local Restaurant with authentic dishes and warm hospitality.

Ptes Borann Restaurant

24.1 km

Experience genuine Cambodian cuisine at Ptes Borann Restaurant in Srah Srang - where flavor meets tradition.

Khmer Village Restaurant

24.3 km

Experience authentic Cambodian cuisine at Khmer Village Restaurant in Siem Reap, where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality.

Khmer Family Restaurant

24.3 km

Experience authentic Cambodian flavors at Khmer Family Restaurant in Siem Reap—perfect for families and food enthusiasts.

Ktom Sre Khmer Food - អាហារដ្ឋាន ខ្ទមស្រែ ស្រះស្រង់ខាងត្បូង

24.7 km

Discover the flavors of Cambodia at Ktom Sre - an organic family-friendly restaurant offering authentic Khmer dishes.

Ktom Sre Khmer Food - អាហារដ្ឋាន ខ្ទមស្រែ ស្រះស្រង់ខាងត្បូង

Chita’s cafe

24.8 km

Discover authentic Cambodian flavors and local crafts at Chita’s Cafe in Village 17255 – where every dish tells a story.

Triple K Angkor Restaurant

25.0 km

Experience authentic Cambodian cuisine at Triple K Angkor Restaurant in Siem Reap - where every dish tells a story.

LUM ORNG Farm to Table Restaurant

29.9 km

Experience authentic Cambodian cuisine with fresh farm-to-table ingredients at LUM ORNG Restaurant in Siem Reap.

New Hope Restaurant

31.3 km

Discover New Hope Restaurant: Where Authentic Cambodian Cuisine Meets Community Empowerment in Siem Reap.

Buffet Phum Yerng

31.9 km

Experience the vibrant flavors of Cambodia at Buffet Phum Yerng, where family-friendly dining meets culinary delight in Krong Siem Reap.

Mahob Cuisine

32.1 km

Experience the rich flavors of Cambodia at Mahob Cuisine – where tradition meets taste in an inviting atmosphere.

Mouhot's Dream

32.2 km

Discover the essence of French cuisine at Mouhot's Dream in Siem Reap – where elegance meets flavor in every delightful dish.

Changkran Khmer Restaurant

32.3 km

Experience authentic Cambodian cuisine at Changkran Khmer Restaurant - where tradition meets fine dining in an inviting atmosphere.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Angkor Pavis Souvenir & Mart 2

29.9 km

Discover unique Cambodian gifts and souvenirs at Angkor Pavis Souvenir & Mart 2, a treasure trove in Siem Reap showcasing local craftsmanship.

Jayav Art

31.4 km

Uncover the essence of Cambodia at Jayav Art, your go-to souvenir store for unique handmade crafts and cultural treasures in Siem Reap.

The Cocoon House Art Gallery, Concept Store, Skateshop and Vintage - by Cocoon Limited

31.9 km

Experience the creative fusion of art, fashion, and skate culture at The Cocoon House, a unique destination in Krong Siem Reap.

The Cocoon House Art Gallery, Concept Store, Skateshop and Vintage - by Cocoon Limited

Sam Orn silver handicraft souvenir shop

32.3 km

Explore the craftsmanship of Cambodia at Sam Orn Silver Handicraft Souvenir Shop, where exquisite silver treasures await every traveler.

Angkor Wat Boutique

32.4 km

Explore Angkor Wat Boutique for authentic Cambodian souvenirs and crafts, capturing the essence of Cambodia's rich culture and artistry.

Chum Theany Angkor Souvenir Shop

32.5 km

Discover authentic Cambodian handicrafts and unique souvenirs at Chum Theany Angkor Souvenir Shop in Siem Reap, a treasure for every traveler.

Khmer Empire

32.6 km

Explore exquisite jewelry inspired by the rich cultural heritage of the Khmer Empire in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Cambodian cottage industries

32.7 km

Explore the rich craftsmanship of Cambodia at Cambodian Cottage Industries, your destination for unique gifts and authentic handicrafts.

Cartier Siem Reap

32.8 km

Experience luxury shopping at Cartier Siem Reap, home to exquisite jewelry, fashion accessories, and fine perfumes in the heart of Cambodia.

ហាងលក់ភេសជ្ជៈសៀមរាបអង្គរ

33.0 km

Enjoy refreshing drinks and local flavors at Siem Reap's charming beverage shop, your cozy retreat after exploring Angkor Wat.

Coconut Street store

33.1 km

Explore the vibrant Coconut Street Store in Siem Reap for unique handicrafts and local delicacies that celebrate Cambodian culture.

No Planet B Cambodia

33.3 km

Explore No Planet B Cambodia for unique gifts and handcrafted treasures that celebrate Cambodian culture, nestled in Babel Guesthouse.

Flower Shop

33.3 km

Explore the serene Flower Shop in Krong Siem Reap for stunning blooms and unique Buddhist supplies, blending beauty and culture in one delightful stop.

SATU Concept Store

33.4 km

Explore the vibrant SATU Concept Store in Krong Siem Reap for unique gifts and authentic Cambodian crafts that tell a story.

The Heritage Walk