Siem Reap: Kulen Waterfall, Banteay Srei, and Beng Mealea Tour

If you’re visiting Siem Reap and looking to see a mix of natural beauty, stunning temples, and off-the-beaten-path sights, then this tour might tick all your boxes. Offering a full-day adventure packed with diverse experiences, it’s highly praised for its knowledgeable guides, scenic views, and great value for money.

What we love about this tour? First, the chance to explore Banteay Srei’s intricate carvings—a temple often overlooked by those rushing only to Angkor Wat. Second, the refreshing Kulen Waterfall, perfect for cooling off and enjoying Cambodia’s lush landscape. Third, the mysterious Beng Mealea, a largely unrestored temple that feels like entering a real-life Indiana Jones set.

One thing to consider: the tour involves quite a bit of walking and some physical activity, which might be tiring for those with lower fitness levels. Still, if you’re up for a full day of exploring varied sites, this trip promises a memorable and authentic experience suited for curious travelers eager to see Cambodia beyond the crowds.

Good To Know

• Diverse itinerary covering natural splendors and ancient temples.
• Knowledgeable guides who enhance understanding with detailed stories.
• Flexible options include group discounts, mobile tickets, and pickup from hotels.
• All-in value considering entrance fees, transportation, and included amenities.
• Seasonal variations may affect water levels and temple appearance.
• Physical activity involved, so prepare for some walking and outdoor conditions.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting the Day: Comfort and Convenience

Most tours kick off early, with hotel pickups between 7:30 and 8:00 AM. The comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle ensures you’re well-rested for the long day ahead. Having an organized pickup and transportation means you won’t have to worry about navigating the sometimes chaotic streets of Siem Reap, giving you more time to focus on enjoying the sights.

Banteay Srei: A jewel of craftsmanship

Our first stop is Banteay Srei, about 25 km north of Angkor Wat, famous for its delicately detailed carvings carved into sandstone. Built in the 10th century and dedicated to Shiva, it’s smaller than Angkor Wat but packs a punch visually. Reviewers like Belinda praised the guide’s insights, noting that the temple’s “intricate carvings” are some of the finest in Cambodia.

You’ll spend around an hour here, exploring the detailed stonework that showcases the high craftsmanship of Khmer artisans. Entrance fees are not included, so you’ll need to purchase an Angkor Pass ($37) onsite or online. We recommend arriving early if you want to beat some of the crowds, especially during peak season or public holidays.

Preah Ang Thom and the River of a Thousand Lingas

Next, we visit Preah Ang Thom, home to an impressive 8-meter reclining Buddha carved into a single sandstone boulder. The recent review by Olivia highlighted how the guide’s passion made the experience special, describing the Buddha as “vivid and serene.” This site offers a peaceful moment amid the day’s busy schedule.

Then, we stroll along a stretch of riverbed adorned with carvings of lingas, Yoni, and Vishnu—a fascinating glimpse into ancient religious practices. This area is free to explore but can be busy with fellow travelers, so patience and a good camera are recommended.

Nature Break: Kulen Waterfall

The highlight for many is Phnom Kulen Waterfall, about 45 meters tall during the rainy season. The surrounding park features lush greenery and the chance to cool off in the cool waters—something many reviewers, like Andrew, find refreshing after a morning of temple touring.

You’ll have about an hour and a half here to enjoy the scenery, take photos, and perhaps even dip into the natural pools. Entrance fees for Kulen Mountain ($20, cash only) are paid separately, so don’t forget your wallet. The waterfall’s size and power can vary with the season, so don’t expect it to look the same every visit.

Lunch and the Mysteries of Beng Mealea

Lunch is typically at a local restaurant, offering a taste of authentic Khmer cuisine. Reviewers like Marc praised the local fare, which often features rice, noodles, and fresh tropical fruits.

Post-lunch, the tour heads east to Beng Mealea, around 40 km from Angkor Wat. Built in the early 12th century, this temple is largely unrestored, giving it a captivating, jungle-entwined vibe. Many mention how it feels like discovering an untouched, lost civilization—more adventurous than the more famous Angkor sites.

Olivia called it “a perfect mix of history and mystery,” and praised the guide’s storytelling. The large, sprawling ruins provide excellent photo opportunities and a sense of discovery. Admission costs are separate from the tour, so plan accordingly.

Wrapping Up: Return to Siem Reap

The full day wraps up with a 1.5-hour drive back to your hotel, giving you time to relax and reflect on a day packed with scenic views, cultural insights, and natural wonders. Reviewers appreciated the smooth logistics, noting the guide and driver’s professionalism.

Practical Details and What They Mean for You

Transportation and Group Size

Transport is by air-conditioned vehicle, which is a real plus in Cambodia’s tropical climate. The group is limited to 15 participants, making it a small-group experience that fosters more personal interaction and easier navigation through crowded sites.

Cost Breakdown and Value

At $53 per person, the tour covers the essentials—transport, water, towels, and a knowledgeable guide. Entrance fees for Banteay Srei and Beng Mealea are additional, totaling $37, while Kulen Mountain costs $20. For the price, this is a strong deal considering the full-day itinerary, expert guidance, and included amenities.

Physical Considerations

The tour involves a fair amount of walking, uneven terrain, and outdoor exposure. Reviewers have noted that it’s suitable for most but less ideal for those with lower fitness levels. Olivia especially mentioned the guide’s passion, which keeps energy high; just be prepared for some physical exertion.

Seasonal Variations and Tips

The scenery can look different depending on the season. During the rainy season, waterfalls are more dramatic; in the dry season, carvings and water levels may appear smaller. Bringing a swimsuit, towel, and sun protection is highly recommended. Changing rooms are available at the waterfall, making it convenient to cool off.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day of exploring beyond the main Angkor Wat complex. It’s ideal if you’re interested in Cambodian culture, natural scenery, and ancient ruins in a single trip.

The small-group format and knowledgeable guide ensure a personalized experience, making it well-suited for curious travelers eager to learn and see lesser-visited sites. However, those with limited mobility might find some parts challenging due to walking and uneven terrain.

If you’re short on time but want to pack a lot into one day, this tour offers excellent value. It’s also a good choice for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences and scenic breaks amidst cultural sightseeing.

FAQs

Do I need to purchase the entrance tickets separately?
Yes, for Banteay Srei and Beng Mealea, you’ll need an Angkor Pass ($37), and Kulen Mountain has a separate entry fee of $20. These are paid onsite or online.

What is included in the tour?
The tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, small towels, a professional guide, and seasonal fruit tasting.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included but is arranged at a local restaurant. Reviewers recommend trying local Khmer dishes, which are usually flavorful and affordable.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.

Are children or seniors likely to enjoy this tour?
It depends on physical fitness; the tour involves walking and outdoor exposure. For lower mobility travelers, a private option might be better.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are fully refundable. Last-minute cancellations are non-refundable.

Final Thoughts

This Siem Reap tour strikes a wonderful balance between natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure. Its well-thought-out itinerary ensures you see a variety of Cambodia’s highlights without feeling rushed, thanks to expert guides and smooth logistics.

The small-group setting makes it more intimate and flexible than larger tours, while the included amenities add comfort to an already impressive experience. Whether you’re fascinated by intricate stone carvings, eager to see natural waterfalls, or intrigued by mysterious ancient ruins, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Cambodia’s diverse treasures.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a full-day, authentic adventure packed with discovery and storytelling. If you’re looking for a value-packed, immersive experience that goes beyond the typical temple crawl, this tour could be just what your Cambodia trip needs.

Note: Always check current entrance fee requirements and seasonal conditions, and consider booking your tickets in advance when possible to avoid delays.