Kbal Spean

The name “Kbal Spean” originated from the locals’ reference to a block of natural rock spanning across a stream to appear like a bridge. The site has become a place of worship for nearly one thousand years already as evidenced by inscriptions and stone carvings from the 11^th and 13^th centuries. Linga carvings feature prominently on the stream’s bedrock that stretches for about 200 m from the north of Kbal Spean to the waterfall. Water passing through this stretch is perceived to have magical power and a source of prosperity and happiness. Sanskrit inscription refers to this site as “Sahasralinga”, which means one thousand lingas some of which have sculptures of vagina attached to as well. In addition to lingas there are other sculptures such as those of Vishnu lying in the middle of the ocean, Brahma emerging from the Vishnu’s navel through a lotus to create a new world, and many animal carvings, etc.

From Kbal Spean the water splits ways into Russei, Puok, and Siem Reap rivers. Ancient sites like Kbal Spean and Kulen mountain are characterized by “mounds” where hermits retreated into seclusion for religious reasons.