Phnom Kulen
| Phnom Kulen | |
|---|---|
| Khmer name | ភ្នំគូលែន |
| Also known as | Kulen Mountain |
| Site type | Archaeological site |
| Location | Siem Reap Province |
| Country | Cambodia |
| Period | 802 CE |
| Subjects | Religion & Spiritual Life |
Phnom Kulen is an archaeological site in Siem Reap Province, Cambodia. (Wikipedia)
History
Phnom Kulen has major symbolic importance for Cambodia as the birthplace of the ancient Khmer Empire, where King Jayavarman II proclaimed independence from Java in 802 CE and initiated the Devaraja cult in what is dated as 804 CE. During the Angkorian era it was known as Mahendraparvata, and it was further developed under Udayadityavarman II, who made it the capital of his empire and constructed temples, residences, and the 1000 Lingas at Kbal Spean. The Khmer Rouge used the location as a final stronghold as their regime came to an end in 1979 during the Cambodian–Vietnamese War. (Wikipedia)
Significance
Phnom Kulen is considered a holy mountain in Cambodia and has special religious significance for Hindus and Buddhists who come there on pilgrimage. The mountain contains sacred and religious sites including Preah Ang Thom, a 16th-century Buddhist monastery with a giant reclining Buddha, and Kbal Spean, whose waters and over 1000 linga carvings hold special significance to Hindus. (Wikipedia)
Stewardship
Phnom Kulen National Park, a sanctuary straddling the districts of Svay Leu and Va Rin, whose purpose is recreational and scientific in order to preserve the natural scenic features of Phnom Kulen mountain. (Wikipedia)
Visiting
The easiest route is by drive. Srah Damrei is accessible by motorbike and takes approximately one hour from the waterfall. The second waterfall is popular to visit and swim in. (Wikipedia)