3-Day All Angkor Major Temples & Amazing Cliff at Kulen Mountain

If you’re planning a trip to Siem Reap and want to see the best of Angkor without feeling rushed, a well-structured 3-day tour like this one from Angkor Happy Tour offers a fantastic way to do it. This experience combines visits to the iconic temples of Angkor Wat, the serenity of Banteay Srei, the mystical Kulen Mountain waterfalls, and some of the most impressive ruins in the Rolous Group. It’s a comprehensive package that balances cultural highlights with natural beauty, all wrapped in a convenient, guided format.

What we find especially appealing about this tour is its emphasis on authentic, less crowded sites like Ta Nei and Banteay Srei, combined with the awe-inspiring views of sunrise over Angkor Wat. Plus, the inclusion of Kulen Mountain, famous for its 1000 Lingas and waterfall, offers a spiritual and scenic contrast to the stone temples. One potential consideration is the price point, with some entrance fees not included in the package, but overall, the value for such an extensive itinerary is quite compelling. This tour suits travelers who want to maximize their time, see a wide array of temples, and enjoy some natural scenery without the hassle of planning each day independently.

Key Points

• Comprehensive coverage of Angkor’s major temples, including Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Srei.
• Natural highlights like Kulen Mountain waterfalls and the 1000 Lingas carved underneath the riverbed.
• Expert guides who provide insightful commentary, often praised for their knowledge and friendly manner.
• Early mornings at Angkor Wat for sunrise views, a truly unforgettable experience.
• Flexible options like skipping sunset at Phnom Bakheng if you prefer a relaxed pace.
• Value for money considering the transportation, guide service, and access to numerous sites over three days.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Temples on the Small Circuit and Angkor Wat

Starting early, the tour kicks off with a pickup around 8:00 am from your hotel or guesthouse. The first stop, Angkor Wat, is where the magic begins. While the admission ticket isn’t included, it’s a small expense for the chance to see one of the most famous monuments in the world. Expect about two hours here, where your guide will narrate stories about this sprawling, intricate temple. As you walk through its corridors, you’ll feel the scale and craftsmanship that make Angkor Wat so iconic.

Next, you’ll visit Ta Prohm, the temple famously tangled with enormous tree roots. As one of the highlights for many visitors, the cinematic vibe from Hollywood’s “Tomb Raider” is palpable. We loved the way the guide explained the temple’s significance and the ongoing restoration efforts, which keep it in such a photogenic yet slightly wild state.

After a local lunch—typically costing around $5 per dish—you’ll explore Ta Nei, a quieter, less restored temple surrounded by large trees. It’s a perfect spot for those looking to avoid crowds and take reflective photos of ancient stones covered in moss.

The afternoon includes stops at the Victory Gate, Bayon temple with its 49 towers and 196 faces, the Baphuon, and the Royal Enclosure, including the Terrace of the Elephants and the Leper King Terrace. These sites are packed with intricate carvings and historically significant structures, giving you a layered understanding of Angkor’s grandeur. The climb up Phnom Bakheng for sunset is optional, but it’s worth noting that some visitors choose to skip it to avoid crowds or long waits.

Day 2: Kulen Mountain & Hidden Temples

Day two offers a balance of natural beauty and spiritual history. The highlight is Phnom Kulen National Park, approximately 60 km from Siem Reap. Here, we loved the scenic drive through Cambodia’s countryside, followed by the visit to the riverbed carved with 1000 Lingas—sculptures believed to symbolize the river of holy water for Hindu ceremonies. The Big Reclining Buddha, carved from a single stone, is an impressive sight, and the waterfall provides a refreshing break—ideal for swimming or just relaxing in nature.

After lunch, the tour continues to Banteay Srei, often called the “Ladies’ Temple,” built from pink sandstone and renowned for its intricate carvings. It’s a smaller temple, but its finesse and preservation make it a standout. We appreciated the detailed craftsmanship and the peaceful ambiance here, making it one of the most beautiful sites in the Angkor complex.

Next, the group visits Banteay Samre, believed to mirror Angkor Wat’s architecture, and Pre Rup, a late 10th-century Hindu temple known for its impressive brick and sandstone work. Pre Rup’s sunset views are popular, but since this tour allows flexibility, you can choose to enjoy the site during the day or skip the sunset.

Day 3: Sunrise, Major Temples, and the Rolous Group

Day three starts early again, with a 5:00 am pickup to catch the breathtaking sunrise over Angkor Wat. This quiet, magical moment is a highlight for many travelers, especially if you love capturing that perfect shot.

Post-sunrise, you return for breakfast before continuing the exploration with Prah Khan, built by King Jayavarman VII. This vast monastic complex was once a Buddhist monastery and school, and its sprawling corridors and quiet courtyards make it feel like an ancient university.

Next, the tour takes you to Neak Pean, a small island temple in a reservoir, offering a tranquil spot to reflect. Then, Ta Som, a charming, smaller temple with a welcoming atmosphere, and the East Mebon, a temple-mountain with large elephant statues at its corners, which gives a sense of the grandeur of Khmer architecture.

In the afternoon, the group visits the Rolous Group, Cambodia’s earliest Angkor-era temples. Preah Ko and Bakong are part of this UNESCO site, with Bakong serving as the first sandstone temple mountain of the Khmer Empire, offering insight into ancient construction techniques and religious practices.

Lunch is provided along the way, typically at local eateries where you’ll find food costing around $5 per dish, giving you a taste of authentic Cambodian cuisine.

Practical Aspects: Transportation, Guides, and Cost

Transportation is a key feature—an air-conditioned vehicle with a driver accompanies you throughout, making the long distances between sites comfortable and stress-free. The guides are described as knowledgeable, friendly, and able to bring the history alive with stories and insights. Their ability to avoid the tourist crowds at certain sites is a plus, as is the inclusion of cold water and towels, which are perfect for beat-the-heat moments.

While the 3-day Angkor Pass ($72) and Kulen Mountain ticket ($20) are not included, the tour’s price of $175 per person still offers good value, considering the extensive itinerary, transportation, and guided commentary. It’s worth budgeting for the entrance fees upfront, especially if you want to access all sites without hassle.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

One of the things that sets this tour apart is the inclusion of less crowded temples like Ta Nei and Banteay Srei, allowing for more peaceful exploration. Several reviewers mention the guides’ ability to share stories and facts that aren’t always found in guidebooks, making the experience richer and more personal.

The visits to Kulen Mountain, with its scenic waterfalls and spiritual carvings, offer a glimpse into Cambodia’s spiritual heritage beyond just the stone temples. Many travelers appreciated the contrast between the natural beauty and ancient architecture, making the experience more holistic.

Who is This Tour Perfect For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of Angkor’s main sights, combined with some natural and spiritual experiences. It’s suitable for those who enjoy walking through history, capturing beautiful photos, and learning from guides who can provide context and stories. Because of the early mornings and extensive itinerary, it’s better suited for active travelers comfortable with long days.

It also works well for groups or families, as the private format means you can tailor activities—like skipping sunset or spending more time at your favorite sites. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the value, considering the included transportation, guide services, and access to a wide array of temples.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This 3-day Angkor tour offers a well-rounded experience that balances major temple visits with natural beauty. Its strength lies in the knowledgeable guides, authentic sites, and scenic moments at Kulen Mountain. The flexibility to select different experiences, such as watching the sunrise or skipping certain sites, makes it adaptable for different travel styles.

If you’re looking for an immersive and authentic glimpse into Angkor’s grandeur, without the stress of planning every detail, this tour provides good value and a deep sense of connection with Cambodia’s spiritual and historical roots. The inclusion of less crowded temples means you’ll likely enjoy a more peaceful, contemplative experience than on large group tours.

Overall, it’s perfect for those who want to see the highlights in a manageable, thoughtfully curated way, and who value insightful guiding and authentic moments amidst the ancient ruins and natural landscapes.

FAQs

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel or guesthouse, making the start of your day smooth and convenient.

What is the cost of admission fees?
The Angkor Pass costs $72 for three days, and Kulen Mountain’s ticket is $20. These are not included in the $175 tour price.

Can I skip the sunset at Phnom Bakheng?
Yes, the tour includes the option to skip the sunset if you prefer a more relaxed afternoon or want to avoid crowds.

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group participates, allowing for a tailored experience and flexible timing.

How long is each day’s sightseeing?
Days are full but balanced, with about 8-10 hours including travel, visits, and meals, designed to give a thorough yet comfortable experience.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but local restaurants nearby provide affordable options, typically around $5 per dish.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, the tour is manageable for most, but be prepared for some walking and stair climbing, especially at sites like Phnom Bakheng.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, hats, sunscreen, water, and a camera. Extra cash for entrance fees and souvenirs is also recommended.

Are the temples crowded?
Early mornings at Angkor Wat are quieter, but some sites like Phnom Bakheng can be busier during sunset. The guide can help find peaceful spots.

Is the tour customizable?
Yes, since it’s private, you can discuss your preferences with the guide on the day, whether to spend more time at certain sites or adjust the schedule.

In essence, this 3-day tour offers a balanced, authentic, and memorable way to experience Angkor’s wonders. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just seeking beautiful moments, it’s a solid choice to explore Cambodia’s most iconic sights.