Kulen Mountain (Waterfall) & Kampong Phluk Floating Village Tour

Exploring Cambodia’s Hidden Gems: Kulen Mountain Waterfall & Kampong Phluk Floating Village Tour

If you’re planning a day trip from Siem Reap that combines nature and local life, the Kulen Mountain Waterfall & Kampong Phluk Floating Village Tour offers a glimpse into two very different worlds. For $76.93 per person, you’ll hop into an air-conditioned vehicle early in the morning, and spend roughly a full day discovering the ancient and the lively. Your journey takes you from the lush, sacred hills of Kulen National Park to the floating houses on Tonle Sap Lake—each offering a unique perspective on Cambodia’s natural beauty and everyday life.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines historical sites with natural scenery—the cool waters beneath the waterfall are a refreshing break from the heat, while the floating village reveals authentic local living. Plus, the fact that it’s a private tour means you can go at your own pace, stop for photos whenever you want, and avoid the often crowded group experiences.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour excludes some key expenses, such as the Kulen Mountain Pass and boat tickets, which can add roughly $40 to your total cost. Travelers should also be prepared for a longer day and some additional expenses if they want to fully enjoy each stop.

This tour suits travelers who love a mix of cultural exploration and natural beauty, especially those who appreciate guides who are knowledgeable and friendly. It’s ideal for those who want to see a famous Hindu site, splash in waterfalls, and experience Cambodian rural life in one go, provided they’re comfortable with a longer day and extra costs.

Key Points

• Highlights include visits to Kulen Waterfall and Kampong Phluk floating village, offering a blend of nature and local culture.
• Private tour advantage: explore at your own pace without the rush of large groups.
• Additional costs: expect to pay for the Kulen Mountain Pass and boat tickets separately, which can increase the overall price.
• Focus on natural beauty: swimming beneath a waterfall is a relaxing highlight.
• Authentic experience: see daily life of Khmer people along the journey.
• Weather considerations: best enjoyed in cooler months, with light cotton clothes recommended.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary: From Sacred Hills to Lively Waters

Your day begins early, with a pickup from your Siem Reap hotel around 8:00 am. The first stop is Kulen Mountain, a site of great spiritual and historical significance for Cambodians. As you travel through the countryside, you’ll notice locals going about their daily routines—farming, selling goods, and simply living amidst this scenic landscape. The guide will likely share some insights about the area’s history, especially its importance as the birthplace of the Khmer Empire.

Once at Kulen National Park, you’ll visit the Waterfall, which is more than just a scenic spot—it’s a place to cool off and enjoy a break from the heat. The waterfall is a perfect spot to dip your feet or take a swim, with the lush jungle backdrop providing an ideal setting for relaxation. The River of 1000 Lingas and a large reclining Buddha are also highlights here, offering glimpses of ancient Hindu carvings and spiritual symbols etched into the rocks.

Despite its beauty, some travelers mention that the Kulen Mountain Pass is not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to pay this separately—adding roughly $20 per person. This might feel like an extra step, but it’s a gateway fee to access the park.

Lunch and Leisure Time

After exploring the temples and waterfalls, you’ll stop for a local lunch, giving you a chance to try Cambodian dishes in a relaxed setting. This is a good moment to recharge and discuss what you’ve seen so far with your guide, who is likely to be friendly and knowledgeable—many reviews mention guides who are engaging and eager to share their insights.

Kampong Phluk: Life on the Lake

In the afternoon, you’ll head to Tonle Sap Lake to visit Kampong Phluk, a floating village that showcases how local people have adapted to life on water. Here, you’ll see houses built on stilts, boats navigating the narrow channels, and possibly children playing along the banks. This visit provides a stark contrast to the temple ruins—it’s about real, everyday living.

The tour mentions a boat ride here, but note that boat tickets are not included in the cost, so be prepared for an additional expense. Reviews indicate that the floating village is lively but not overly touristy, making it a genuine window into Khmer life.

Final Drop-off and Reflection

After a full day of exploration, your driver will return you to your hotel, likely feeling a mix of refreshed nature and cultural insights. The entire experience lasts around 8 to 10 hours, making it a significant but rewarding outing.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer described the tour as “interesting and the guide friendly and knowledgeable,” noting that a gift of scarves was a thoughtful touch. They did feel the overall cost was a bit high, especially considering the extra fees for the mountain pass and boat tickets—adding about $20 each.

Another traveler appreciated the stunning views and the opportunity to swim beneath the waterfall. Guides who are well-informed are a recurring highlight, helping make the experience meaningful rather than just sightseeing.

Some feedback points out that additional expenses can add up quickly, so budgeting for extra costs is wise. Also, since the tour involves a full day outdoors, packing light, comfortable clothing, and sun protection will improve your experience.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying the Tour

• Book in advance: the tour is popular, often booked 210 days ahead, so securing your spot early is advisable.
• Bring cash: for the Kulen Mountain Pass and boat tickets, which are not included.
• Dress appropriately: wear long, light cotton clothes, especially when visiting temples, and carry sun protection.
• Prepare for additional expenses: budget around $40 extra if you want to fully enjoy the boat ride and mountain passage.
• Travel light: carry only essentials, as you’ll be moving around a lot.
• Stay flexible: since it’s a private tour, you can ask your guide to spend more time at your favorite spots or skip others.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a balanced day of adventure and cultural insight. If you love nature, history, and authentic local life, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and the flexibility of a private tour. However, be prepared for some extra costs and a long day outdoors—it’s not ideal if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer shorter excursions.

Final Thoughts

The Kulen Mountain Waterfall & Kampong Phluk Floating Village Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Cambodia’s diverse landscape—from sacred mountain temples to vibrant floating communities. It balances scenic beauty with cultural authenticity, all within a manageable day trip. The guide’s insights and the chance to swim beneath a waterfall are definite highlights.

While the extra costs for necessary passes and boat tickets can raise the overall price, you get a personalized experience that lets you explore at your own pace. It’s a good choice for curious travelers eager to see a different side of Cambodia—beyond the Angkor temples—without feeling rushed or crowded.

If your interest lies in nature, local life, and history, and you’re comfortable with some additional expenses, this tour is a solid way to enrich your Siem Reap visit.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but keep in mind it involves some walking, swimming, and outdoor exposure, so plan accordingly.

What is included in the tour price?
Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, pickup and drop-off from your hotel, a guide who speaks English, water, and towels are included. However, the Kulen Mountain Pass and boat tickets are not.

How long does the tour last?
The entire day is roughly 8 to 10 hours, starting at 8:00 am and ending back at your hotel around late afternoon or early evening.

Do I need to pay extra for the entrance tickets?
Yes, you’ll need to pay for the Kulen Mountain Pass and boat ride separately, which can add about $40 per person.

Is swimming allowed at the waterfall?
Yes, many travelers enjoy a swim beneath the waterfall, which is a refreshing highlight during the trip.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss with your guide to spend more time at certain spots or skip others, making it flexible to your interests.

What should I wear?
Light, long cotton clothes are best, especially when visiting temples to comply with dress codes. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included in the price, but a stop at a local restaurant is part of the itinerary, giving you a chance to try Cambodian cuisine.

How much should I budget for extras?
Expect to add roughly $20 for the Kulen Mountain Pass and another $20 for the boat ticket, totaling about $40 extra on top of the tour fee.

This tour offers a meaningful way to see a side of Cambodia often overlooked by travelers, blending natural beauty with cultural insights. It’s perfect for those who want a personalized, relaxed day that balances history, scenery, and local life—just remember to plan for some additional expenses and a full day on your feet.