Kbal Spean: The River of a Thousand Lingas

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Discover ancient carvings in a jungle riverbed at Kbal Spean, the 'River of a Thousand Lingas,' near Siem Reap and Angkor Wat.

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Kbal Spean

Kbal Spean, also known as the 'River of a Thousand Lingas,' is an ancient archaeological site in the Kulen Hills, northeast of Angkor. The site features intricate carvings in the sandstone riverbed of Hindu deities and lingas, phallic symbols of Shiva, dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries. A visit combines a scenic jungle trek with a unique cultural and historical experience.

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

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kbal Spean.

Wear comfortable shoes for the 1.5km jungle trek to the river carvings.
Visit during the dry season (November to April) for the best visibility of the carvings when the water level is lower.
Bring water and snacks, as there are limited options available along the trail.
Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as Kbal Spean is considered a religious site.
Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Banteay Srei Temple or the Cambodia Landmine Museum.

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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 to 2 hours. The tuk-tuk will drop you off at the parking area, where you'll begin the 1.5km uphill trek to the river.
Taxi

A taxi from Siem Reap to Kbal Spean costs around $60. The journey takes about 1 hour. From the parking area, follow the marked trail for 1.5km uphill to reach the Kbal Spean river carvings.
Public Transport

Take a bus from Siem Reap to Bakong (approximately $1). From Bakong, hire a taxi or tuk-tuk to Kbal Spean, costing around $10-$15. Agree on the fare before departure. Upon arrival, walk the 1.5 km uphill to the carvings.

Discover more about Kbal Spean

Kbal Spean, meaning 'Bridge Head' in Khmer, is a captivating Angkorian-era site nestled in the Kulen Hills, approximately 50 kilometers northeast of Siem Reap. Often called the 'River of a Thousand Lingas,' this unique archaeological site features a 150-meter stretch of the Stung Kbal Spean River adorned with intricate stone carvings. The carvings, primarily dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries during the reigns of King Suryavarman I and King Udayadityavarman II, depict numerous lingas (representations of the Hindu god Shiva) and yonis, symbolizing fertility and the divine. The site also showcases carvings of Hindu deities such as Vishnu, Brahma, Lakshmi, Rama, and Hanuman, along with animal motifs. It is believed that the carvings were created to bless the river's water, which then flowed to irrigate the rice fields, ensuring prosperity for the kingdom. To reach Kbal Spean, visitors embark on a moderately challenging 1.5-kilometer trek through the jungle. The trail leads to the riverbed, where the carvings are visible when the water level is low, particularly after the rainy season. A small waterfall adds to the site's beauty, especially during the wet season. The combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and spiritual ambiance makes Kbal Spean a worthwhile destination for those seeking a unique experience beyond the main Angkor complex.