To begin your journey of exploring Cambodia’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, there’s no better starting point than Phnom Kulen—the birthplace of the Angkor civilization.
Located about 30 kilometers northeast of Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Phnom Kulen is the source of the Siem Reap River, which flows through the entire city. It is considered a sacred site by Cambodians and is renowned for its distinctive natural landscapes and historical relics.
Speaking of Phnom Kulen, one must mention a significant historical figure—Jayavarman II.
At the end of the Chenla Kingdom in Cambodia, the realm split into two separate states: Water Chenla and Land Chenla. Jayavarman II, a royal member of Water Chenla, was taken to Java’s Shailendra dynasty as a political hostage. After finding a way to return to Water Chenla, he was supported by a group of former court officials and proclaimed king. In his campaign to unify the fragmented states, he chose Phnom Kulen as the site to establish his capital, founding the city of Mahendraparvata.
In the year 802 AD, Jayavarman II successfully reunified Water Chenla and Land Chenla, declaring independence from the Javanese Shailendra dynasty. He then held a grand Devaraja (God-King) ceremony on Phnom Kulen, establishing the political philosophy of divine kingship. This marked the beginning of Cambodia’s most glorious era—the Angkor Empire.
Step into Phnom Kulen, and follow the paths lined with dense shrubs and towering trees—you’ll find yourself walking into the radiant past of the Angkor Empire.
Scattered across the mountain are numerous temples and stupas built during the Angkor period, though many have been lost to centuries of weathering and human destruction. The largest remaining temple is Preah Ang Thom, built atop a massive rock over 20 meters high and 10 meters wide. Inside, it houses Cambodia’s largest reclining Buddha statue, with 18 sculpted heads of Arhats adorning the base. Cambodians making the pilgrimage to Phnom Kulen always stop here to worship.
Standing on the platform of Preah Ang Thom Temple, you can take in the sweeping views of Phnom Kulen, including the many lychee trees that blanket the mountain.
According to legend, during China’s Yuan Dynasty, envoys were sent to visit Angkor—one of them being Zhou Daguan. It is said that the lychee seeds carried on their voyage took root on Phnom Kulen, gradually growing into the lush groves that still thrive on the mountain today.
Zhou Daguan stayed in Angkor for a year during the height of its glory and documented his observations in “A Record of Cambodia (Zhenla Fengtu Ji)”. Though only about 8,500 characters long, this brief account has become one of the few invaluable records of that brilliant civilization.
Right next to Preah Ang Thom Temple is the famous Preah Ang Thom Waterfall, a filming location for the movie Tomb Raider. The waterfall has two tiers: the upper level features a gentle drop, perfect for photos, splashing, and swimming; the lower level boasts a dramatic plunge down a rock face, creating a truly breathtaking sight.
In addition, Phnom Kulen is home to several other fascinating sites, including a giant stone elephant sculpture, the Rong Chen Temple, and the Bat Cave, all well worth exploring.
Dynasties may rise and fall through the tides of history, but the traces they leave behind are everlasting. Come to Phnom Kulen and uncover the mysteries and splendor of this once-glorious empire.
