Phnom Kolen
Angkor Wat does not mark the start of the Angkorean Empire begun by Jayavarman II in the 9th century. At just about 42km north of Siem Reap Town, many visitors combine a visit to Phnom Kulen with a trip to the pink sandstone temple of Banteay Srei. But Phnom Kulen is also a change of scenery for those who have spent days looking at the impressive lowland temples and wish to see a different, rural Cambodia, waterfalls and forest. In 802 AD, the mysterious King Jayavarman II proclaimed this place and its surroundings as his empire and declared it free of the rule of Java, and Phnom Kulen was born as the new dynasty's first capital.
The peak of Phnom Kulen opens out to a large flat plain. On either side, tall waterfalls crash down the mountain; clean, clear and cool water provide a wonderful place for tourists. Carvings of Brahmin yonis and lingas can be seen etched into the riverbed. A mountain peak temple houses a huge reclining Buddha, gazing serenely out from his peaceful mountain ... Read More...
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