Phnom Kulen is located approximately 48 kilometers north of Siem Reap, Cambodia.
Phnom Kulen, also known as "Pheam Kre Phnom Kulen," is a revered mountain range in Cambodia. It is considered the birthplace of the ancient Khmer Empire, where King Jayavarman II declared independence from Java in 802 AD. The mountain is a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists, featuring the prominent Preah Ang Thom, an 8-meter-long reclining Buddha statue carved into a sandstone boulder. The area is renowned for its lush forests, picturesque waterfalls, and clear streams, offering a tranquil escape from city life. The River of a Thousand Lingas (Kbal Spean) features intricate carvings of Hindu deities and symbols on the riverbed.
Phnom Kulen is accessible by car, van, or motorbike from Siem Reap, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours. Visitors can also join organized tours that include transportation and a guide.
Nearby attractions include Banteay Srei, Kbal Spean (the Valley of a Thousand Lingas), and the Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB).
Written by Siem Reap Wonder Team
