CAMPING TRIP TO O-TA-JOK (KULEN MOUNTAIN)

Phnom Kulen is a range of mountains and part of a national park located approximately 2 hours away from Siem Reap. It's an area of major symbolic significance as it is considered the birthplace of the Khmer empire. Few tourists venture this far from Angkor Wat, though, and it's a great place for an overnight adventure in nature. There is the chance to explore the River of 1,000 Linga - a carved riverbed from the pre-Angkor era- and discover the giant, 16th-century reclining Buddha and pagoda atop the mountain where you can make a traditional blessing.

You'll be well looked after by your guide and the ranger, who will set up your camp in a lovely, shady spot by the river where you can swim, relax or enjoy drinks. A BBQ dinner and a campfire will be set up in the evening, and after a night of camping, your guides will prepare breakfast. You'll then be able to a trek through the jungle towards the Kulen Waterfall, where a picnic lunch will be served.

Since this is proper camping as opposed to luxury safari-style, this overnight adventure may not be for everyone. However, a night here in conjunction with a stay in Siem Reap offers an excellent way to see the countryside on a short trip to Cambodia and also works as a unique stopover on a road trip around the entire country.