2-Days Angkor & Banteay Srei & Kulen Mountian Waterfall Tour

Travelers dreaming of Cambodia’s spectacular temples and lush landscapes will find this 2-day Angkor & Banteay Srei & Kulen Mountain Waterfall Tour an impressive way to experience the region’s highlights without feeling rushed. Offered by Angkor Guide Tours for about $126 per person, this private group adventure packs in a lot of sightseeing, culture, and scenic beauty—perfect for those who want a comprehensive, authentic taste of Siem Reap’s treasures.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert guides and small group setting help make the complex history and architecture understandable and engaging. Second, the combination of iconic temples and natural wonders like Kulen Mountain Waterfall offers a balanced mix of culture and nature. The only possible downside? The early start on Day 2 (a 4:30 AM wake-up) might be a challenge for night owls, but it’s necessary to catch the sunrise at Angkor Wat—an unforgettable experience.

This tour suits travelers who prefer a well-organized, guided experience that covers the must-see sites while offering genuine insights. If you’re eager to learn about Cambodia’s history, see stunning temples, and enjoy scenic waterfalls—all in a manageable 2-day trip—this tour could be just right.

Key Points

• Expert guides provide detailed stories and insights, making the visit more meaningful
• Combines popular temples with lesser-known sites for a balanced experience
• Early start for Angkor sunrise, providing iconic photo moments
• Includes a visit to Kulen Mountain with its waterfalls and the ancient city of Mahendraparvata
• Good value for money, considering the all-inclusive transport, guide, and entrance fees
• Suitable for travelers comfortable with a moderate pace and early mornings

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

This tour is carefully crafted to maximize your time at key sites while providing some respite from the crowds and heat, especially with the early sunrise viewing. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a comprehensive look at Angkor’s highlights without spending days on the road or in the temples.

Day 1: Temples by Daylight

Starting around 8:00 AM, you’ll meet your guide in your hotel lobby, ready to explore some of the most famous sights in Angkor. The day kicks off with Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world and Cambodia’s pride. Your guide will explain the temple’s history, architecture, and symbolism, helping you appreciate its grandeur beyond just the photo ops.

Next, you’ll visit Ta Prohm, famously intertwined with massive trees growing through its corridors. This site, often called the “Tomb Raider Temple,” combines natural beauty with a sense of mystery. As you wander its crumbling walls, your guide will share stories that bring the ruins to life.

In the afternoon, you’ll explore Ta Nei, a quieter, less crowded temple deep in the jungle, offering a peaceful contrast to the bustling main sites. From there, you’ll head to the East Gate of Angkor Thom, with its Bayon Temple—noted for its massive stone faces smiling serenely from every direction—and Baphuon, an impressive artificial mountain temple.

Your day ends with visits to the Royal Enclosure, the Elephant and Liper King Terraces, and finally Phnom Bakheng for sunset, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the jungle and temples. Returning to your hotel around 6:30 PM, you’ll have a chance to reflect on a day packed with history and stunning architecture.

Day 2: Sunrise and Mountain Majesty

The early morning begins at 4:30 AM with a sunrise view over Angkor Wat—a photographer’s dream and an iconic moment for many travelers. After the breathtaking dawn, you’ll head back to your hotel for breakfast before continuing your exploration.

From there, the tour takes you to the big circle of temples, including Preah Ang Thom with its enormous reclining Buddha carved from natural stone—an awe-inspiring sight. This part of the tour emphasizes natural beauty and spiritual significance as you see the sacred waterfall where water is believed to wash away sins.

A highlight of the day is visiting Phnom Kulen Mountain—about 65 km from Siem Reap—once the capital of the Khmer Empire and still a place of pilgrimage. At the summit, you’ll see the 1000 Lingas, intricate carvings in the riverbed representing Shiva’s sacred symbols, and learn about their significance in Hindu tradition.

After a leisurely lunch near Kulen Mountain, you’ll visit Banteay Srei, the “Ladies’ Temple,” famed for its pink sandstone carvings that showcase intricate detail. This temple, built in the late 10th century, offers a different style from the grand Angkor temples and provides a peaceful, scenic spot for reflection.

The day concludes with visits to Banteay Samre and Pre Rup, a temple with volcanic stone and brick towers, rounding out your experience of the region’s diverse architecture.

The Practicalities: Transport, Cost, and Comfort

Transport is provided by a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, with a dedicated driver ensuring smooth travel between sites. This means you can relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about navigation or traffic. The small group setting—private for your booking—adds a layer of intimacy that larger tours often lack.

Pricing at $126 includes guide services, transportation, parking fees, and road tolls—a fair package considering the number of sites covered. Entrance fees for the temples are separate ($37 per day for a one-day pass), and Kulen Mountain tickets are $20 per person, so budget accordingly.

Meals are not included, but there are plenty of local restaurants nearby each site, giving you a chance to taste Cambodian cuisine. Be prepared with comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and your camera—this tour involves some walking, uneven surfaces, and sun exposure.

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The Authentic Experience: What Past Travelers Say

One of the highlights noted in reviews is the knowledgeable guide. As one traveler put it, “Mr. Mean Chanra was very invested, helpful, and friendly. He is also very knowledgeable, told us many fascinating stories about Cambodian history.” Such guides do more than point out sights—they enrich your understanding, making the experience more meaningful.

Reviewers also appreciated the stunning landscapes and the chance to see a beautiful sunrise in front of Angkor Wat, which is often described as breathtaking. The combination of natural and archaeological sites is well appreciated—visitors loved the chance to see the big reclining Buddha and the ancient city of Mahendraparvata on Kulen Mountain.

For those who prefer an organized, well-paced experience that balances major highlights with some quieter moments, this tour receives high praise—some even calling it a “highly detailed and interesting” journey through Cambodia’s temples.

Who Will Benefit Most?

This tour is ideal for history buffs, temple enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. Its mix of architectural wonders and natural scenery provides a well-rounded experience. The early start might be a challenge for some, but it’s well worth it for the sunrise and cooler morning temperatures.

Travelers who value expert guidance and want a comprehensive, guided introduction to Angkor will find this tour particularly appealing. It’s also a good fit for those who prefer a small group or private arrangement over large tour buses, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Angkor & Kulen Mountain Waterfall Tour offers a fantastic introduction to Cambodia’s most famous temples and scenic sites. With knowledgeable guides, a manageable pace, and a good mix of cultural and natural highlights, it provides excellent value for money. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to see the biggest sights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

For history lovers eager to understand the stories behind the stones, and for those who want to enjoy the beauty of Angkor at sunrise, this tour delivers on both counts. It balances the grandeur of Angkor Wat with the serenity of Kulen Mountain, making for a memorable two days in Cambodia.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes an English-speaking guide, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, parking fees, tolls, drinking water, towels, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You will need to purchase your own breakfast, lunch, and dinner at local restaurants.

How much are the temple entrance fees?
The temples require a $37 per day pass, which is not included in the price. Kulen Mountain tickets are $20 per person.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera are essential. Be prepared for some walking and sun exposure.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
It’s not suitable for people with back problems or wheelchair users. The early start and walking make it less accessible for some.

How long does each day last?
Day 1 runs from about 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM. Day 2 begins very early at 4:30 AM for the sunrise and ends around 6:30 PM after the last site visit.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it is operated as a private group, allowing for flexibility and personalized attention.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, but keep in mind the early start and walking involved. It’s best for families with children who are comfortable with these logistics.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, providing flexibility while planning your trip.

This tour offers a well-rounded, immersive way to experience Cambodia’s stunning archaeological sites and natural beauty. Whether you’re fascinated by ancient temples or simply eager to see the landscapes that inspired legends, it’s a trip worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: