6-Day Cambodia Trek from Siem Reap to Angkor Wat via Phnom Kulen

6 Days Round trip from Arrival in Siem Reap Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Trek through rice fields, farmland, and remote villages beyond the usual Siem Reap temple circuit
  • 02 Experience rural Cambodia more deeply with camping and local homestays along the route
  • 03 Summit sacred Phnom Kulen for panoramic views, the Reclining Buddha, and a waterfall break
  • 04 Visit the River of a Thousand Lingas and other significant cultural and spiritual sites en route
  • 05 Finish in the Angkor heartland with Ta Som, Angkor Thom, Bayon, and Angkor Wat

Trek from the rural outskirts of Siem Reap to the heart of the Angkor Archaeological Park on a 6-day backcountry adventure that blends jungle trails, rice-paddy paths, and powerful Khmer history. Along the way, discover village life, pagodas, countryside temples, and the hidden rhythms of Cambodia far from the usual tourist routes. The journey builds to sacred Phnom Kulen for panoramic views, ancient carvings, a waterfall swim, and the River of a Thousand Lingas, before a memorable finish at Angkor Thom, the Bayon's iconic faces, and the grandeur of Angkor Wat. With a mix of camping and local homestays, this experience offers an immersive, on-the-ground connection to Cambodia's landscapes and culture.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 6 Days
Tour type Shared
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Included · Premium
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Siem Reap, Beng Mealea, Phnom Kulen
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Siem Reap and Welcome Dinner

Welcome to Cambodia! Upon arrival at Siem Reap Angkor International Airport (SAI), our team will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Siem Reap, the gateway to the majestic temples of Angkor. Settle in and enjoy the rest of the day at your own pace, whether relaxing at your hotel or exploring the vibrant local atmosphere.

In the evening, join your fellow adventurers for a detailed tour briefing, followed by a warm welcome dinner. This marks the official start of your Cambodia trek to Angkor Wat temple, an unforgettable journey through jungle trails, hidden temples, and ancient history.

  • Meals: (D)

  • Accommodation: (Included)

2
Day 02

Rural Trek to Wat Sorsey and Temple Camping

After breakfast at your hotel, begin your first full day of the Cambodia trekking tour with a 30-minute transfer to the outskirts of Siem Reap. From here, set off on foot and trek southeast through lush rice paddies, open farmland, and the vibrant green heart of the Cambodian countryside.

Along the trail, pass through small traditional villages where life moves at a gentle pace. You'll also encounter several pagodas and rural temples, important cultural landmarks in daily Cambodian life. We take time to stop and explore a couple of these sacred sites along the way, offering a deeper connection to the spiritual fabric of the region.

Enjoy a simple, authentic lunch en route in one of the local villages, then continue your afternoon trek northward through peaceful rice fields and grazing pastures. By late afternoon, you'll arrive at a Buddhist temple, where we set up camp for the night.

  • Meals: (B/L/D)

  • Accommodation: (Included)

  • Trek: (17 km)

3
Day 03

Wat Sor Sey to Beng Mealea Through Remote Countryside

Today's leg of your Cambodia trekking tour takes you closer to the sacred hills of Phnom Kulen, though the summit awaits tomorrow. After breakfast at camp, set off across expansive rice paddies, following winding cow-cart trails and narrow dirt paths that offer sweeping views of Phnom Kulen rising in the distance. As you pass through a small rural village, veer off the main track and continue your trek through peaceful fields and countryside rarely touched by tourism. Along the way, enjoy lunch en route and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of this unspoiled region.

Later in the day, you'll reach the outskirts of Beng Mealea, home to one of Cambodia's most intriguing jungle-covered temples. While you won't explore the temple just yet, you'll settle into a charming homestay in a nearby village, offering a firsthand glimpse into traditional Khmer life in the countryside.

  • Meals: (B/L/D)

  • Accommodation: (Included)

  • Trek: (20 km)

4
Day 04

Phnom Kulen Ascent and Sacred Sites

After an energizing breakfast, begin one of the most rewarding days of your Cambodia trekking adventure. A short 20-minute transfer takes you to Phum Deikrahorm, where today's challenging ascent begins. Trek uphill through jungle-covered trails to the summit of Phnom Kulen (487m), Cambodia's sacred mountain and one of the most spiritual sites in the country. Revered by locals and pilgrims alike, Phnom Kulen is considered the birthplace of the ancient Khmer Empire. As you reach the high plateau, enjoy panoramic views over vast forests, rice fields, and distant mountain ranges.

Trek approximately 11 km through remote villages and rural farmland. Follow single-track trails through cashew plantations to Sras Domrei, a peaceful and rarely visited site adorned with giant ancient statues and rich historical significance. Continue another 7 km to Phum Thmey, a small, welcoming village where you'll enjoy a packed lunch among friendly locals and curious children. This is a heartwarming moment of cultural exchange and a chance to witness everyday life in remote Cambodia.

In the afternoon, trek the final 3 km to Phnom Kulen's iconic Reclining Buddha, perched high above the plains. Just a short walk beyond lies a stunning waterfall, perfect for a refreshing swim and rest. You'll also visit the famous River of a Thousand Lingas, where ancient carvings lie submerged in the riverbed, a spiritual and archaeological wonder.

  • Meals: (B/L/D)

  • Accommodation: (Included - Local Homestay)

  • Trek: (19 km)

5
Day 05

Descend Phnom Kulen to Wat Tbeng

After a hearty breakfast in your Phnom Kulen homestay, set off on a historic jungle trail once commonly used by locals but now rarely traveled due to new road access. This lesser-known path offers a quiet, authentic slice of Cambodian wilderness. Along the way, you may encounter locals collecting lianas, hunting, or making their way to farms hidden higher in the hills. Your Cambodia trekking journey continues southeast, winding down the forested slopes of Phnom Kulen, a mountain deeply revered for its historical and spiritual importance. As you descend, the landscape opens into the sun-drenched plains of Siem Reap Province.

The afternoon stretch leads you along sandy, sometimes muddy tracks through rural villages, local schools, and pagodas. The lack of shade makes this section physically demanding, but the immersive views of village life and the warm smiles of passing children keep spirits high. After a full day on the trail, arrive at Wat Tbeng, where a welcoming homestay awaits. This final rural stop brings you one step closer to the majestic temples of Angkor.

  • Meals: (B/L/D)

  • Accommodation: (Included)

  • Trek: (21 km)

6
Day 06

Final Trek to Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat

After enjoying your final breakfast at the homestay, set off on the last leg of your Cambodia trekking tour to Angkor Wat. Today's route is shorter but no less meaningful, as it leads you into the heart of one of the world's most iconic archaeological wonders. Trek 10 km through open countryside until you reach Prasat Ta Som, a beautiful, lesser-visited temple that marks the gateway to the Angkor Archaeological Park. Here, switch from foot to the local mode of travel - a colorful tuk-tuk procession - as you ride in style toward the spiritual finale of your journey. Pass by ancient ruins, towering gateways, and forest-covered relics as you approach Angkor Thom, the majestic walled capital of the Khmer Empire. Stand in awe before the enigmatic faces of the Bayon Temple, located in the very center of the city.

Finally, arrive at the crown jewel of Cambodia, Angkor Wat, just in time to marvel at its grandeur and historical magnitude. This unforgettable finish marks the culmination of your Cambodia trek to Angkor Wat, blending nature, culture, and centuries of history in one powerful experience.

  • Meals: (B/L/D)

  • Accommodation: (Included)

  • Trek: (7 km)

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Arrival in Siem Reap 3 cities · 6 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Experienced English trekking guide
  • Accommodation (hotel, camping tent, local homestay)
  • Support vehicle
  • Meals as mentioned
  • Snacks and drinks
  • Tickets and entrance fees

What's Not Included

  • International flight
  • Domestic flights
  • Visa fees
  • Alcohol
  • Tips

What to bring

  • Guide

  • Your trip will be led by our experienced English trekking and cycling guide. Our guides are knowledgeable about the history, culture, and religion of the area and will share their insights with you during the tour.

  • Support Vehicle

  • Have peace of mind with our support vehicle always accompanying the tour. The vehicle will carry your luggage and provide a break if needed. The backup van will be with us every 3 km-5 km, offering a convenient stop for rest and relaxation.

  • Safety

  • Our tour guides are trained in first aid and emergency rescue, but ultimately, it is your responsibility to take care of yourself while trekking.

  • Health and Medical Conditions

  • It is important to inform the tour guide of any medical conditions or any changes in health status before and during the tour to ensure the safety of everyone involved. The tour guide is trained in first aid and emergency rescue, but it is still crucial for each participant to be aware of their own physical health and limits. This will help ensure an enjoyable and safe adventure for everyone.

  • Drinking

  • Keeping you hydrated is a job we take very seriously. Cold water, some energy-restoring local fruit, and soft drinks are included in the tour price while trekking. Soft drinks and other beverages during meals are not included. Beer is freely available everywhere but is not included in the price.

  • Extra Expenses

  • Most things are included in the package tour, but you might want to budget for food and drinks if you choose to head out at night, or for additional activities. The cost of the activity depends on what you want to do. We recommend bringing a small amount of cash, around US$30, for incidentals.

  • Money

  • Thai baht and US dollars are widely used in Cambodia, especially in larger cities and towns. In smaller towns and villages, Cambodian riels are usually preferred. There are ATMs in most areas; however, machines dispense US dollars. The guides will be able to show you where the ATMs are. Spend your riel before departing, as no one will exchange it for you once you leave.

  • Passport and Visa

  • Visitors to Cambodia require a passport to enter the country, and all travellers must hold a passport valid for 6 months after their planned exit from Cambodia.

  • Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival at Phnom Penh and Siem Reap international airports without prior registration. Visas are issued on arrival for most nationalities at US $30 per person; please bring 1 passport photo.

Know before you go

  • Your trip will be led by our experienced English trekking and cycling guide.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Arrival in Siem Reap - Gateway to Your Angkor Trekking Adventure
Tour start
Arrival in Siem Reap
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 6 days finish where they began, in Arrival in Siem Reap.

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