Your day begins with a scenic 1.5-hour drive (50km) from Siem Reap to the sacred Phnom Kulen National Park, the birthplace of the Angkor Empire. Explore the mountain’s spiritual and natural wonders, including the River of a Thousand Lingas—where ancient Hindu carvings of Vishnu, Shiva, and other deities adorn the riverbed—and the stunning two-tiered Kulen Waterfall, where you can take a refreshing dip. At the summit, visit the iconic Reclining Buddha, a revered stone statue. After a picnic lunch amid nature, journey back toward Siem Reap, stopping at a traditional Khmer village to immerse yourself in local life: sample palm wine and sugar (seasonal), try handmade snacks, and observe crafts like weaving or rice farming. You’ll return to Siem Reap by late afternoon, with time to relax or explore further.