Take a Break from the Temples
Sometimes when you’re in Siem Reap for a few days, you just need a break from temples. Don’t get us wrong, Angkor Wat is amazing, but trust us, you’ll love switching it up with a day at Phnom Kulen.
A Sacred Mountain with a Story
Phnom Kulen is a sacred mountain about two hours out of town. Getting there takes a bit of time because the road winds up through the jungle, but that’s part of the fun. People say the rocks from Phnom Kulen were once used to build some of the Angkor temples, so in a way, you’re visiting the birthplace of Siem Reap’s ancient wonders.
Waterfalls and Fresh Mountain Air
One of the best surprises when you get there is the waterfall. Locals and travelers all end up here to cool off. The water is fresh and clean, and when you first dip in, it’s pretty cold, which is exactly what you want after a hot morning climbing temple stairs. You’ll also find ancient carvings right in the riverbed and sometimes big carved stones telling stories you might recognize from Angkor Wat’s temple walls.
Tips Before You Go
If you plan to go, bring a swimsuit and maybe some snacks. You can picnic by the river just like the local families do. There are a few food stalls too if you want something hot and tasty after your swim.
We always tell friends visiting Siem Reap. If you have one extra day, spend it at Phnom Kulen. It’s calm, refreshing, and gives you another side of Cambodia that’s easy to miss if you only stick to the temples.
Photo from @karonaofficail