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Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI) → Phnom Kulen National Park transfer

Phnom Kulen National Park is 59 km from Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport, a drive of about 83–104 minutes. Typical prices are €45–60 for a car with up to three passengers and €60–80 for a minivan for up to seven; the exact price is shown before you book.

From
Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI)
To
Phnom Kulen National Park
Distance
59 km
Typical drive
83–104 min

The hill is sacred to Cambodians as the place where the Khmer Empire was proclaimed in the 9th century, and today it draws visitors for its waterfalls and riverbed carvings.

What awaits on the Kulen plateau

The main sights are the River of a Thousand Lingas, where Hindu carvings are cut into the stream bed, a large reclining Buddha in a hilltop pagoda, and the Kulen waterfalls with a pool where many people swim. Local families come on weekends and holidays with picnics.

A park entry ticket is required and is separate from the Angkor pass.

How the road up the hill works

The approach runs north through the countryside to the foot of the plateau, then climbs a narrow, winding road with forest on both sides. Because it is too tight for two-way traffic, vehicles have long been allowed up only in the morning and down only in the afternoon.

The exact cut-off times are set locally and can change, so check them shortly before your trip. In practice this route suits a morning landing: arrive at SAI early and the drive gets you to the gate before uphill traffic stops.

Before you book

Afternoon arrivals
If you land after mid-morning, the upward road may already be closed. Stay in Siem Reap and go the next day instead.
Swimming gear
Pack swimwear and a towel in your hand luggage if you plan to swim, and modest clothing for the pagoda.
Getting down again
This is a one-way ride. Arrange your afternoon descent and onward transfer separately, keeping the downhill timing in mind.

Frequently asked questions

Can I go straight from my flight to Phnom Kulen?

Yes, if you land early enough to reach the park before the morning cut-off for uphill traffic. Check the current times locally before you travel.

Is the Phnom Kulen ticket included?

No. The park ticket is separate from both the transfer and the Angkor pass and is paid for by the visitor.

Is the waterfall worth visiting in the dry season?

The falls flow strongest in and just after the rainy season, roughly June to November. Late in the dry season the flow can be much weaker.

Is the road to Phnom Kulen safe for children?

The road is narrow and winding but driven daily by local providers. Request child seats when booking and bring motion-sickness remedies if your children need them.

Can I combine Phnom Kulen with Beng Mealea?

Yes. Both lie east and north-east of Siem Reap, and many travellers see Kulen in the morning and Beng Mealea in the afternoon.

More transfers from Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport

Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport: arrival and transfer guide