Angkor Wat is famous for its stunning temples, but the surrounding national parks offer equally captivating natural and spiritual experiences. From ancient carvings and waterfalls to sacred peaks, these tours give travelers a chance to escape the crowds and enjoy Cambodia’s wild side. We particularly like the Kulen National Park Ticket for its convenience and seamless experience, and the Phnom Kulen Waterfall tour for its combination of nature and cultural highlights. Whether you’re a solo traveler looking for independence or a small group craving a guided adventure, these options deliver memorable moments.
If you’re wondering how to choose among these, we’ve broken down each tour’s unique features, value, and suitability for different types of travelers. Whether you want the easiest access, the most comprehensive experience, or a mix of adventure and culture, there’s a perfect fit here.
Quick Overview
This list features four top-rated national park tours in Angkor Wat, each with distinct strengths. The Kulen National Park Ticket (5/5 rating, $19) is ideal for independent travelers who want to skip lines and go at their own pace. The Tours and Tickets to Experience Phnom Kulen National Park (also 5/5, $52) offers a full-day guided visit with highlights like the River of a Thousand Lingas and waterfalls. The Phnom Kulen Waterfall 1000 Linga National Park Tour ($95) emphasizes scenic treks and swimming, perfect for nature lovers. Lastly, the Phnom Kulen National Park Tours and Tickets ($63.75) combines a 16th-century reclining Buddha with jungle hikes.
Below, we explore each tour in detail to help you pick the best option for your trip.
1. Kulen National Park Ticket
Pre-book your admission to Phnom Kulen National Park with this convenient ticket, and you’ll avoid the long lines that often form at the entrance. For just $19 per person, you’ll receive your tickets the evening before your visit, delivered directly to your hotel in Siem Reap. This is perfect if you prefer to plan ahead and set your own schedule.
This ticket provides access to Cambodia’s most sacred mountain, the Reclining Buddha, the River of 1000 Lingas, and the stunning Phnom Kulen Waterfall. The key benefit is that it’s a simple, no-fuss option that suits independent travelers who want to explore at their own pace. You won’t need a guide or extra arrangements—just arrive and enjoy.
The tour covers all the main sites within the park, making it a great choice for those who want the essentials without the added cost of guided tours. Reviewers appreciate the quick delivery of tickets and the flexibility it offers, especially for travelers with tight schedules. For a straightforward, cost-effective visit to this spiritual mountain, this ticket is hard to beat.
Bottom Line: If you want to visit Phnom Kulen without the hassle of queuing and prefer the flexibility of self-guided exploration, this ticket is a smart, affordable choice.
2. Tours and Tickets to Experience Phnom Kulen National Park
At number 2, this guided full-day tour offers a rich experience of Phnom Kulen’s natural and spiritual highlights for around $52 per person. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive look at the park with the comfort of transportation and a knowledgeable guide. The tour includes visits to waterfalls, the River of a Thousand Lingas, and a local market, providing a well-rounded experience.
One of the standout features is the inclusion of Kbal Spean, the River of a Thousand Lingas, which is known for its intricate carvings in the riverbed. The guide will explain the history and significance of these carvings, adding depth to your visit. The tour also offers plenty of photo opportunities, like the panoramic views from Rocky Valley and the lush jungle trails.
Guests consistently praise the guide’s insights—“Mr. Kong Thy’s” commentary makes the trip educational and engaging. The price includes transportation, although entrance fees are separate. This tour is ideal if you prefer guided exploration with a small group, and the small size (around 10 people) ensures a more personal experience.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking an all-in-one, guided adventure with rich explanations and a comfortable itinerary, this tour hits the mark.
$52.00 per person
3. Phnom Kulen Waterfall 1000 Linga National Park Tour
This more immersive tour, priced at $95 per person, is geared toward those craving nature, adventure, and a bit of a workout. With about 4 to 6 hours of exploration, it’s perfect for active travelers. The tour includes scenic treks around Kulen Mountain, a swim beneath the waterfalls, and visits to the Buddha statue.
What makes this trip stand out is the chance to cool off in the waters of Kulen Waterfall—a refreshing break from the Cambodia heat—and to walk along jungle trails that reveal the lush beauty of the landscape. The guide will lead you to the famous River of a Thousand Lingas, where you can marvel at the carved stones and listen to their stories.
Reviewers mention the guide’s educational storytelling and the beauty of the waterfalls. “Very educational and insightful,” says one guest, emphasizing the mix of natural beauty and cultural history. Although the tour price is higher, it includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which adds value if convenience matters.
Bottom Line: This tour is best for active travelers who want to combine hiking, swimming, and cultural sights on a small-group basis.
4. Phnom Kulen National Park Tours and Tickets
For about $63.75, this full-day small-group tour offers a well-rounded visit combining nature, spirituality, and cultural highlights. It includes walking through jungles to see Kulen Waterfall, visiting the reclining Buddha, and exploring the River of a Thousand Lingas.
What sets this tour apart is the comprehensive itinerary and the opportunity to hike through jungle trails, enjoy scenic viewpoints, and experience the authentic atmosphere of Phnom Kulen. The guide will lead you through each site, sharing stories about the carvings and the history of the area. The trip also includes a trip to a local market and a chance to enjoy the natural scenery without feeling rushed.
Though the tour is longer (about 10 hours), it’s a flexible option for travelers who want a full, guided experience that covers multiple highlights. It appeals to those who want to combine adventure with cultural insights, with positive reviews noting the guide’s knowledge and the stunning scenery.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those looking for a comprehensive guided day that combines hiking, cultural sites, and natural beauty.
$63.75 per person
How to Choose
When selecting the best park tour in Angkor Wat, consider your budget, schedule, and interests. If you want to skip lines and go solo, the Kulen National Park Ticket offers a simple, cost-effective solution. For those who prefer guided trips with detailed explanations, the Tours and Tickets to Experience Phnom Kulen or the Tours and Tickets options provide excellent value and depth.
If you’re after active pursuits like swimming and trekking, the Phnom Kulen Waterfall tour delivers an experiential trip with plenty of time outdoors. Conversely, if you want a full-day, all-inclusive guided experience that balances sightseeing and culture, the Phnom Kulen National Park Tours and Tickets are a good pick.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date and avoid last-minute sellouts.
Final Thoughts
All four tours showcase the diverse allure of Phnom Kulen and its surroundings. For independent travelers, the Kulen National Park Ticket is a stress-free way to explore on your own. For guided enthusiasts, the guided tours provide education and convenience, perfect for those who want stories and context behind each site. Meanwhile, adventure seekers will love the waterfalls and jungle hikes offered by the tour focused on natural scenery.
No matter which option you choose, make sure to wear comfortable shoes, bring plenty of water, and prepare for a rewarding day in Cambodia’s stunning landscapes. Book early, and enjoy your journey through one of Southeast Asia’s most scenic and sacred parks.