Phnom Kulen
Kulen plateau, Siem Reap province, Cambodia
Phnom Kulen combines forest, waterfalls and sacred sites on a plateau beyond Angkor. The reclining Buddha at Preah Ang Thom and the carved riverbed are among its best-known stops, but the area also holds traces of the early Khmer capital of Mahendraparvata. Plan a full outing with reliable transport and a local guide for routes beyond the main visitor areas. Ask about community-led visits, and check access and water conditions before setting off.