Archaeological complex of Banteay Chhmar
$ 250
per person
Phnom Kulen (Kulen Mountain) is widely regarded as the birthplace of the Angkorian Empire and the sacred mountain where King Jayavarman II (770–835 AD) would proclaim independence from the Sriwijaya Kingdom and be anointed as Chakravartin (God-King/King of Kings). It would be here where Jayavarman II would build his capital Mahendraparvata (‘mountain of great Indra’) and set in motion the beginning of one of the world’s greatest empires. In the centuries that followed, the world’s largest pre-industrial city, Angkor, and the world’s largest religious monument, Angkor Wat, would be built on the plains below.
The superb temple of Banteay Srei, located in the plain at the foot of the Kulen Mountain range, is considered one of the finest temple in Cambodia.
Full–day tour from Siem Reap.
In the morning, by car to Kulen Mountain, the birthplace of the ancient Khmer Empire in 804. On the way you will cross beautiful ricefields and local villages. Upon arrival at the hilltop, stop at the River of the Thousand Lingas. Carved in stone on the river banks and on the river bed, the lingas symbolized God Shiva and served to purify and fertilize the water that was used to irrigate the rice fields below.
At the Buddhist temple of Preah Ong Thom, local traditional musicians play live music called Phin Pheat to pray for the huge Reclining Buddha located on the hilltop. Enjoy swimming in the river or at the waterfall before having lunch in a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, visit Banteay Srei temple located at the foot the Kulen Mountain range. The pink sandstone temple was built by a Brahman in late 10th century and dedicated to Shiva. Walls of Banteay Srei temple display some of the most beautiful, deep and intricate carving of any Angkorian Temple.
