Phnom KulenThe plateau of Phnom Kulen (“Mountain of the Lychees”), also called Kulen Mountain, is located 40 kilometers northeast of the Angkor World Heritage Site and Siem Reap town, in northwestern Cambodia. The plateau extends over an area of 25 by 15 kilometers and is covered by a series of hills with an altitude ranging from 300 to 500 meters.
Ravaged by civil war and neglected for many years, Phnom Kulen remained largely unexplored until recently and contains a myriad of significant archaeological sites – from sculpted riverbeds and caves to ancient hydraulic structures and 1200-year old temples. More research needs to be conducted to retrace the history of the area, which was occupied through the whole Angkorian period. It is also a complex environment, with a growing population and many environmental challenges. Phnom Kulen is a popular destination for Cambodian people. |
A remarkable site
Phnom Kulen has always been of great religious, cultural and archaeological significance. It is an important pilgrimage site for all Cambodian people, and one of the few remaining tropical forests in northwest Cambodia. Learn more... |
A complex environment
A large majority of the 4,800 villagers living on Kulen are subsistence farmers practicing ‘slash and burn’ agriculture, which has a devastating impact on the environment. Moreover many landmines have been left by the belligerents. Learn more...
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A bit of history
Phnom Kulen is considered to be the birthplace and the first capital of the Khmer empire, the sacred mountain where King Jayavarman II proclaimed independence from “Java” in 802 CE. But there are still many unknowns. Learn more...
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Visit Phnom Kulen
Phnom Kulen is just two hours away from the Angkor temples. Day trips are run by local travel agents but they will only bring you to the waterfall and the River of 1,000 Lingas. A specialised agency is therefore recommended. Learn more...
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Phnom Kulen is a natural plateau located near the Angkor World Heritage Site in northwestern Cambodia.