River of a Thousand Lingas
Explore ancient Hindu carvings, including thousands of Shiva lingas, along a riverbed amidst a lush jungle setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less water, clearer carvings
River of a Thousand Lingas
Best Time
Less water, clearer carvings
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient Hindu carvings, including thousands of Shiva lingas, along a riverbed amidst a lush jungle setting.
"A truly unique blend of nature and ancient artistry, the River of a Thousand Lingas is a must-see."
🚗 Hire a Car or Motorbike
Tuk-tuks aren't ideal for the mountain access. A car or motorbike offers more flexibility for reaching Kbal Spean.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The jungle hike is steep and can be slippery. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential for safety. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shiva Lingas in the River
Riverbed
Thousands of intricate Shiva lingas carved into the sandstone riverbed, a testament to ancient artistry.
Jungle Waterfall
Upper and lower levels
A picturesque waterfall offering a refreshing escape and a beautiful backdrop to the ancient carvings.
Hindu God Carvings
Rocks along the river
Detailed depictions of Hindu deities etched into the rocks, showcasing the region's rich religious history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Angkor Pass Required
The Hike is Real!
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Thinking of doing a day trip to the 1000 lingas.
🚗 Hire a Car or Motorbike
Tuk-tuks aren't ideal for the mountain access. A car or motorbike offers more flexibility for reaching Kbal Spean.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The jungle hike is steep and can be slippery. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential for safety. :athletic_shoe:
Anyone been to the Kulen Waterfalls recently, should I go?
Cambodia and Laos Two Weeks - Thoughts and opinions
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during the hike. The jungle heat and humidity can be intense. :droplet:
☀️ Go Early to Beat Heat
Start your visit in the morning to avoid the peak heat and humidity of the day. :sunrise:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Hire a Car or Motorbike
Tuk-tuks aren't ideal for the mountain access. A car or motorbike offers more flexibility for reaching Kbal Spean.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The jungle hike is steep and can be slippery. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential for safety. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during the hike. The jungle heat and humidity can be intense. :droplet:
☀️ Go Early to Beat Heat
Start your visit in the morning to avoid the peak heat and humidity of the day. :sunrise:
📸 Capture the Details
Take your time to photograph the intricate carvings; they are truly remarkable. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the River of a Thousand Lingas for its unique blend of natural beauty and ancient Hindu artistry, particularly the intricate linga carvings in the riverbed and the refreshing waterfall. The jungle hike is considered a rewarding part of the experience, though some note that the carvings can be less visible during the rainy season and the hike can be challenging in the heat.
"This is one of my favorite places to hike and enjoy both nature and the vibe of the ancient builders.
The Shiva linga's in the water baffle me, the amount of work needed to carve out the depictions in the stone of the mountain is huge and there is a great sense of little detail and symmetry.
Good place to walk the dog too"
Dennis de Witte
"The Kbal Spean is a Hindu Temple nestled up on this mountain. You need to have a valid Angkor ticket for access. Carvings of Hindu Gods on the rocks where the river runs , these echoes Hinduism influence in Cambodia. Warning ...IT IS A HIKE TO GET THERE ! you will be walking in jungle weather, it can get really hot and humid. such rewarding waterfalls at the top . our local guide said u can bathe in the waterfall."
Mistydiane Buntag
"Kbal Spean is a different experience from the other temples in the Angkor Wat area. It’s located 1 hour drive from Seam Reap. Be ready for a 1km walk on the steep jungle path till you reach the water temple, when go down the waterfall to see the other carved rocks in the water and outside."
Ida S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The River of a Thousand Lingas, also known as Kbal Spean, is located about 48 km north of Siem Reap. The most recommended ways to get there are by hiring a car or a motorbike, as tuk-tuks are not suitable for the mountain terrain. Guided tours are also available, though they can be more expensive.
Unfortunately, tuk-tuks are generally not available or recommended for the journey to Kbal Spean due to the road conditions and the nature of the terrain leading up to the site. It's best to arrange for a car or motorbike.
The drive from Siem Reap to Kbal Spean typically takes about 1 hour, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Yes, many visitors combine a trip to Kbal Spean with other nearby attractions like Sra Damre, especially if you've hired a car for the day.
Yes, there is a parking area at the base of the trail leading to the carvings and waterfall. From there, you'll begin your hike.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a valid Angkor Pass is required to enter Kbal Spean and access the site. Make sure to purchase your pass before your visit.
Kbal Spean is generally open during daylight hours, similar to other Angkor sites. It's best to check the official Angkor Enterprise website for the most current hours.
Angkor Pass prices vary depending on the duration of your visit (1, 3, or 7 days). You can find the latest pricing on the official Angkor Enterprise website.
You can purchase Angkor Passes at the official ticket center before heading to Kbal Spean. It's advisable to buy them in advance to save time.
Your Angkor Pass covers entry to Kbal Spean. There are no separate entrance fees for the site itself, but transportation costs to get there will apply.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The hike from the parking area to the carvings and waterfall is approximately 1.5 km (about 1 mile) and can take around 30-45 minutes each way, depending on your pace.
The hike involves a steady incline for the first 800 meters and can be steep in parts. It's considered a moderate hike, especially in the jungle heat and humidity.
Yes, visitors can bathe in the waterfall at the lower level. It's a popular spot to cool off after the hike.
The carvings are best seen during the dry season when the water level is lower, making them more visible. During the rainy season, the water flow can obscure them.
Bring plenty of water, wear comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, and sunscreen. A hat is also recommended for sun protection.
📸 📸 Photography
The riverbed with the linga carvings, the main waterfall, and the Hindu god carvings on the rocks are prime photo opportunities. Look for unique angles and the interplay of light and water.
It can be challenging due to water reflections and varying water levels. Try to capture them when the water is clear and shallow. Polarizing filters can help reduce glare.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light and fewer crowds. Midday sun can be harsh, but can also create dramatic shadows on the carvings.
Drone usage is generally restricted at Angkor Archaeological Park. It's best to check the latest regulations with the Apsara Authority before flying.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the landscape and carvings. A macro lens can be great for the intricate details. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light shots near the waterfall. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water for the hike, as facilities are limited. The intricate carvings can spark curiosity, making it an educational outing. However, the steepness of the trail might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. Consider the heat and humidity when planning your visit. :familywithkids:
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
The combination of the hike, the waterfall, and the ancient carvings provides a multi-faceted experience. It's a chance to explore off the beaten path and connect with both nature and history. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and bring water to stay comfortable throughout your trek. :hiking_boot:
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different angles and lighting conditions. Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the textures of the stone. Be prepared for varying water levels, which can affect how well the carvings are visible. A polarizing filter can be helpful for reducing glare on wet surfaces. :camerawithflash:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of the 1000 Lingas
Beyond the lingas, the site features other intricate carvings of Hindu deities like Vishnu, Brahma, and various apsaras (celestial dancers). These are found both in the riverbed and on rocks along the banks. The natural beauty of the jungle setting, combined with these ancient religious artifacts, creates a truly unique and spiritual atmosphere. It's a place where nature and human devotion have intertwined for centuries, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural and religious heritage of the Khmer Empire.
Navigating the Jungle Hike
Along the trail, you'll experience the vibrant Cambodian jungle, with its diverse flora and fauna. The hike itself is part of the adventure, offering a sense of discovery as you ascend towards the waterfall and carvings. Many travelers find the trek rewarding, not just for the destination but for the immersive natural experience. Remember to bring insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be present in the jungle.
The Kbal Spean Waterfall
Visitors are often permitted to bathe in the waterfall, offering a welcome opportunity to cool down after the hike. The area around the waterfall is also where some of the more prominent Hindu god carvings can be found. It's a place where the natural beauty of Cambodia is on full display, complementing the ancient man-made wonders.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit