Phnom Kulen Ecotourism Project

Eco-Adventure & Community Impact

Preserving Heritage and Empowering Communities

Located just 40 km from Angkor, the Phnom Kulen mountain range is one of the largest forest areas in the Siem Reap region and the historic birthplace of the Khmer Empire. To protect this unique site, ADF (Archaeology & Development Foundation) has developed a model of Phnom Kulen ecotourism that places local inhabitants at the heart of conservation.

This national park is home to approximately 4,900 villagers from communities that have been isolated for generations. Due to a lack of economic alternatives, these populations have historically relied on practices that threaten the ecosystem, such as deforestation and poaching.

Since 2024, APLC has supported ADF (Archaeology & Development Foundation) through Sala Baï to implement a structured, sustainable tourism model offering high quality guest experience. This project supports two Community-Based Tourism Centers (CBTCs) managed by volunteer members of the CPA (Community-Protected Area), who are responsible for protecting the forest surrounding their villages.

By choosing their services, you provide sustainable livelihoods for these villagers while ensuring the preservation of the environment. Today, the Popel and Anlong Thom community centers welcome travelers for guided treks off the beaten path, revealing hidden archaeological treasures and natural wonders far from the crowds.

PROJECT GOALS: 4 KEY OBJECTIVES



Environmental Awareness

Creating alternative livelihoods to replace destructive farming, deforestation, and poaching, while establishing sustainable tourism practices.



Training & Capacity Building

Providing essential training in English, archaeology, IT skills, and marketing, as well as health, hygiene, culinary arts, and financial management.



Structured Development

Strengthening the organization and governance of both Community-Based Tourism Centers (CBTCs).



Supporting Education

Providing essential school supplies to local primary schools across the Phnom Kulen mountain range.

IMPACT :

2

Community-Based Tourism Centers (CBTC) supported.

1,163

Hectares of forest protected in the 2 CPAs (Community-Protected Areas).

90+

People earning a sustainable, direct income.

300+

Beneficiaries

5%

Of tour revenue supports local education.

Tours Packages & Services

POPEL COMMUNITY-BASED TOURISM CENTER

The Popel Community-Based Tourism Center (CBTC) is operated by 15 dedicated volunteers from the local Community-Protected Area (CPA). These volunteers guard 798 hectares of forest, the largest protected zone in the park.

Guided by Locals: Explore unique trails led by the CPA volunteers who know the forest best.
Support Conservation: Your trek provides sustainable livelihoods that allows the community to continue their conservation work.
Eco-Conscious: Minimal impact adventures with a strict zero-plastic policy.

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HALF DAY TREK: THE FIVE WATERFALLS

Embark on a steeper jungle hike through lush vegetation to discover the hidden cascades of Thna Pok, Sman Teang, and Anlong Run. Swim in natural pools, enjoy an exclusive waterfall lunch, and explore secret trails with your expert local guide.

Distance: Approx. 4 km
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Included: Local guide, lunch, water, and snacks

Start your adventure

HALF DAY TREK: MYSTIC ROCK FOREST

Explore a landscape of mystic boulders, hidden bat caves, and breathtaking canopy views.

The journey takes you to the iconic “Dark Cave” (Poeng Gnognet), a sanctuary of giant rock formations and wild orchids. The trek concludes at the Anlong Run waterfall for a peaceful swim and a traditional local lunch.

Distance: Approx. 4 km
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Included: Local guide, lunch, water, and snacks

Start your adventure

FULL DAY TREK: BOULDER FOREST & WATERFALLS

A full-day immersion in the park’s wildest reaches. Trek off the beaten path to explore deep caves, panoramic viewpoints, and incredible biodiversity. In the afternoon, enjoy a refreshing swim in a hidden waterfall and a scenic picnic by the cascade.

Distance: Approx. 9 km
Duration: 6 to 7 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging (steep canyons, river crossings)
Included: Local guide, lunch, water, and snacks

Start your adventure

ANLONG THOM COMMUNITY-BASED TOURISM

The Anlong Thom Community-Based Tourism Center is managed by 17 local CPA (Community-Protected Area) volunteers who guard 365 hectares of forest. Your visit directly funds local education and the preservation of this unique historical heritage.

Expert Historian Guides: Choose from 3 tour packages led by local guides trained in forest conservation and Khmer history.
Hidden Wonders: The area is home to 18 exceptional archaeological sites, including hermit caves, ancient carvings, and lost temples.
Adventure Included: Tours feature a short, scenic motorbike ride to reach remote areas.

HALF DAY TREK: THE ROYAL PALACE TREK

Follow the ancient forest trails of King Jayavarman II’s lost capital. This journey connects the sacred Rong Chen pyramid to the hidden site of the Royal Palace of Mahendraparvata, blending spiritual landmarks with the buried history of the Khmer Empire’s birthplace.

Distance: Approx. 11 km
Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Motorbike Adventure*: 30 mins (access to the site)
Included: Local guide, forest lunch, water, and snacks

Start your adventure

HALF DAY TREK: SHORT CIRCUIT

Journey through forest trails to discover moss-covered ruins, hidden hermit caves, and the majestic Rong Chen pyramid. This accessible loop concludes with a forest lunch and a visit to the mystical Poeng Tbal, an ancient rock shelter featuring intricate carvings.

Distance: Approx. 11.5 km
Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Motorbike Adventure*: 30 mins
Included: Local guide, forest lunch, water, and snacks

Start your adventure

FULL DAY TREK: LONG CIRCUIT

Follow the ancient footsteps of the Khmer Empire through dense jungle and forgotten ruins. From the hidden Prasat Pram to the sacred Rong Chen – the first five-tiered pyramid in Khmer history – discover the roots of an empire. Between historical discoveries, enjoy a peaceful lunch prepared by the women of Anlong Thom.

Distance: Approx. 15 km
Duration: 6 to 7 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Motorbike Adventure*: 45 mins (included to reach remote trailheads)
Included: Local guide, village-prepared lunch, water, and snacks

Start your adventure

*What is the Moto Adventure ?

Ride through jungle trails and ancient Angkorian roads on a motorbike driven safely by an experienced villager.

It’s more than a ride, it’s an adventure! One of the most fun ways to explore the wild side of Phnom Kulen, and necessary considering the distances.

OVERNIGHT STAY

CAMPING AT POPEL OR ANLONG THOM

Our riverside campsites offer total immersion in the heart of the park and a unique chance to connect with local communities. Sleeping under the stars is the ultimate way to experience the mountain’s natural rhythm.

Please book at least one week in advance.

Included: Tent, bedding, security, dinner, and breakfast.
Facilities: Basic toilets and a rest pavilion.

PRICES & BOOKING

Phnom Kulen National Park is located about 50 km north of Siem Reap and take around 1h30min .

The entrance fee is $20 but we can offer special price package with transportation arrangement if you contact us in advance.

Ask about our combined packages when booking !

CONTACT

To book your stay or request a quote, please contact us:

Phone : +855 (0) 69322311 | +855 (0) 77 622 422

Email : [email protected]

KULEN CRAFT

Before you leave, visit the Kulen Craft shop to discover the skill of local artisans. Browse hand-woven mats, baskets, and traditional cutlery crafted from natural or recycled materials, a true glimpse into the park’s living heritage.

You’ll leave with unique handcrafted souvenirs and a deeper connection to the village.

ENSEMBLE, LUTTONS CONTRE LA PAUVRETÉ

par l’éducation et la formation

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