Phnom Kulen Small-Group Tour with 1000 Lingas River and Reclining Buddha, Max 12

Phnom Kulen, 50 km north of Siem Reap, is Cambodia's most sacred mountain and a pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. This five-hour small-group tour covers its three main sights: the temple of the Reclining Buddha on top of a big rock, the River of 1000 Lingas and the Phnom Kulen waterfalls. Departure is at 8:30 am, with the guide collecting guests from hotel lobbies between 7:30 and 8:30 am. The drive north takes about two hours in a shared air-conditioned van or bus, through local villages and tropical forest. A flight of steps leads up to the Reclining Buddha, carved in sandstone. The riverbed of the 1000 Lingas is carved with many lingas, symbols of the Hindu god Shiva, and rock carvings along the river show Hindu deities. At the waterfall there is time to wade in the basin or swim. Hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water and an English-speaking guide are included. Food and drinks, travel insurance, gratuities and the waterfall entrance fee are not. Bookings are limited to 12 travelers, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Moderate fitness is required, and the tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers.