Kbal Spean: The River of a Thousand Lingas

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Discover ancient Hindu carvings beneath flowing waters at Kbal Spean, the River of a Thousand Lingas, nestled in the Cambodian jungle.

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Kbal Spean

Kbal Spean, also known as the River of a Thousand Lingas, is an ancient Angkorian site located in the Phnom Kulen National Park, northeast of Angkor. The site features intricate stone carvings in the riverbed of lingas (phallic symbols representing the Hindu god Shiva) and other Hindu deities, dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries. Visitors can hike through the jungle to witness these unique underwater carvings and a picturesque waterfall.

A brief summary to Kbal Spean

M2P8+G76, Phumi Khna Rôngvoas, KH
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Monday 7 am-5:30 pm
Tuesday 7 am-5:30 pm
Wednesday 7 am-5:30 pm
Thursday 7 am-5:30 pm
Friday 7 am-5:30 pm
Saturday 7 am-5:30 pm
Sunday 7 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

Wear suitable shoes for the 1.5km uphill hike through the jungle to reach the carvings.
Visit during the dry season (November to May) for lower water levels and better visibility of the carvings.
Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Banteay Srei Temple, the Cambodia Landmine Museum, or the Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity.

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Getting There

Tuk-tuk

From Siem Reap, hire a tuk-tuk for a round trip to Kbal Spean. Negotiate the price beforehand, typically ranging from $15 to $25. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours. The tuk-tuk will drop you off at the entrance, from where you'll need to walk 1.5km uphill to the carvings. Remember to purchase an Angkor Pass, which includes entry to Kbal Spean, before arriving. A one-day pass costs $37.
Taxi

A taxi from Siem Reap to Kbal Spean costs around $60 for a round trip. The journey takes about an hour. The taxi will take you to the entrance of Kbal Spean, where you will need to walk 1.5km uphill to reach the river carvings. Ensure you have an Angkor Pass, which includes entry to Kbal Spean. A one-day pass costs $37.
Public Transport

Take a bus from Siem Reap to Bakong (approximately $1). From Bakong, hire a taxi or tuk-tuk to Kbal Spean, which should cost around $10-$15. Agree on the fare before you start your journey. This will take you to the entrance, where a 1.5km uphill walk is required to reach the carvings. Don't forget to purchase your Angkor Pass beforehand, which includes entry to Kbal Spean, costing $37 for a one-day pass.

Discover more about Kbal Spean

Kbal Spean, meaning "Bridge Head," is a unique archaeological site celebrated for its spectacularly carved riverbed. Located in the Kulen Hills, northeast of Angkor, it's part of the Phnom Kulen National Park. The site is often called the "River of a Thousand Lingas" due to the numerous lingas carved into the sandstone riverbed. These carvings, along with depictions of Hindu deities, were created during the Angkor Empire in the 11th and 12th centuries, primarily during the reigns of King Suryavarman I and King Udayadityavarman II.The carvings were intended to bless the river's water, ensuring fertility and prosperity for the kingdom. The lingas, abstract representations of Lord Shiva, are the most prominent feature. Other carvings include Lord Vishnu reclining on the serpent Ananta, Lord Brahma on a lotus, and various animal motifs. The carvings are most visible when the water level is lower, typically after the rainy season. As the water flows over the sacred carvings, it was believed to become divine, symbolizing the heavenly Ganges River and purifying the earth. The water eventually flows into the Siem Reap River.The site was rediscovered in 1969 by French ethnologist Jean Boulbet. A 1.5km trail leads uphill through the forest to the riverbed, with wooden stairs assisting in the steeper sections. Along the way, visitors can enjoy the lush jungle scenery. Besides the carvings, a small waterfall and natural pools add to the site's allure.