The Sacred Kbal Spean – River of a Thousand Lingas

After an early breakfast at the hotel, at 7.30 am your guide will take you through timeless rural Cambodian villages and countryside to explore the sacred hill of Kbal Spean. It is situated on 50 meters (160 ft) stretch of the Stung Kbal Spean River, about 50 kilometers from Siem Reap.

Take this opportunity to visit the Angkor Center for Conservation and Biodiversity (ACCB), the first nature conservation and endangered wildlife rescue and breeding center in Cambodia. During the tour, you can see a variety of our animals and learn first-hand about our efforts to save Cambodia’s wildlife.

From here you will trek through a protected forest to see the scared Kbal Spean, a holy place that must have been favored during the great Angkorean epoch when its waters, after having washed gods and lingas, continued on to the wondrous royal city with its growing monumental temples. The site consists of a series of stone carvings in sandstone formations carved in the river bed and banks. It is commonly known as the “Valley of a 1000 Lingas” or “The River of a Thousand Lingas”.

After enjoying a Khmer lunch at a local restaurant, continue to explore the famous Banteay Srei temple, the 10th-century unique temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Built in pink sandstone, the walls are covered in exquisitely preserved carvings of unusual delicacy. Because of its small size, fairy-like atmosphere, and extraordinary examples of Khmer sculpture, this temple is often a favorite among visitors. Stop at a local village along the way, to meet local people and see how they traditionally produce their local commodities such as basket weaving and sugar palm. Afterward, return to your hotel and enjoy free time at leisure.