In short
- Cover your shoulders and knees for the religious sites.
- Bring swimwear and water shoes for the waterfalls.
- Wear sturdy walking shoes for uneven jungle trails.
In this article
A day trip to Phnom Kulen National Park involves visiting active religious sites, hiking jungle paths, and swimming in natural pools. Your outfit needs to adapt to all three activities. Bring layers so you can meet the temple dress code before cooling off at the cascades.
What is the temple dress code at Phnom Kulen?
You must cover your shoulders and knees to enter Wat Preah Ang Thom and the Reclining Buddha.
Modest dress is strictly enforced at these religious sites. Bring a sarong or wear long pants and a t-shirt. You also must remove your shoes and hats before entering the main shrine. Leave a small cash tip for the local shoe-minders at the base.
Can I wear a swimsuit at Kulen Waterfall?
Yes, you can wear a swimsuit at the waterfall, but cover up while walking between sites.
Bring swimwear, a travel towel, and a dry change of clothes for the natural pools. The lower waterfall has changing rooms and lockers available for a small fee. The wooden stairs leading to the main 15-meter plunge pool get very slippery. Wear water shoes with good grip to navigate the wet rocks safely.
What shoes do I need for Kulen Mountain?
Wear sturdy, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes for the main trails and temple complexes.
The ground around the River of a Thousand Lingas and the hilltop pagoda is uneven. If you plan to visit remote sites like Srah Damrei (Elephant Pond), durable footwear is essential to handle the dirt jungle trails.
Should I pack sunscreen and bug spray?
Yes, mosquito repellent and sun protection are essential for the humid jungle environment.
Pack sunscreen and a sun hat for the exposed areas, especially around the scenic viewpoints like Poeng Ta Kho. Apply mosquito repellent before walking through the shaded jungle paths near the riverbed.
What else should I pack for the day trip?
Bring cash and a waterproof camera or phone case.
You need cash in US Dollars or Cambodian Riel for local food stalls, locker rentals, and donations. A waterproof case protects your phone while swimming in the lower falls or photographing the underwater carvings.
Does it matter if I book a tour or go independently?
Your clothing needs remain the same, but guided tours often provide drinking water and cold towels.
If you hire a private taxi, you must bring all your own supplies for the 1.5 to 2-hour drive. Many guided tours cover these basics, letting you carry a lighter daypack.
Questions travellers ask
Do I need to wear long pants all day?
No. You only need to cover your knees and shoulders at the temple. You can wear shorts and a t-shirt for the rest of the park.
Are there changing rooms at the waterfall?
Yes. Lockers and changing rooms are available near the lower waterfall for a small cash fee.
Can I walk barefoot at the River of a Thousand Lingas?
No. You should wear shoes to protect your feet on the uneven trails. You must not walk on or touch the ancient underwater carvings.
