Quick Facts:
Situated on the southwest slopes of the Kulen Hills and the northeast of Angkor complex, Kbal Spean (also known as'The River of a Thousand Lingas') is an archaeological site of Angkor period attracting many visitors every year.
It is famous for the sculptural forms on stone in the riverbed and riverbank such as numerous lingas (phallic symbol of Hindu god Shiva), Hindu mythological motifs, the images of gods Shiva, Vishnu, Brahma, Lakshmi, Rama, and Hanuman along with some animal species like cows and frogs. According to historians, they began to be carved from the reign of King Suryavarman I to the reign of King Udayadityavarman II, meaning between the 11th and 12th centuries. This site was really explored and opened to public in 1969 by Jean Boulbet, an ethnologist. The local people believe that the water from two falls of Phnom Kulen Moutain area flows over the carvings and is blessed before coming to Angkor, so they often bottle it to carry on their home and call it “Holy Water”. The carvings are seen most clearly after the rainy season, when water level of the river reduces.
Nowadays, Kbal Spean is increasingly attracting the attention of tourists because of its unique beauty among the ancient relics of Angkor complex. Coming to Kbal Spean, travelers will have the feeling to explore a sacred land in the interior jungle. Even you can experience the relaxed and serene moments when taking a holy bath under the waterfall in here. Kbal Spean is not only an archaeological site with precious historical value but also a magnificent natural landscape, where visitors can enjoy the fresh air and immerse in the beautiful nature.
Let come to Kbal Spean and explore the hidden beauty of Cambodia!
