Phnom Kulen is in Svay Leu and Varin districts, about 60 kilometers from Siem Reap provincial town and 25 kilometers rom Banteay Srei. Phnom Kulen, originally called Mount Mahendraparvata, is the holy mountain where, when King Jayavarman II (AD 802-80) proclaimed independence from Java in 802, the Angkor Empire was born.

This mountain plateau served as the century before it relocated south to Hariharalaya, known today as Rolous. As many as 20 minor temple, the first pyramid  built by an Angkorian King, but many of them are difficult to reach. Numerous important sites lie scattered across the mountaintop, which is accessible by foot or by car. They include:

Chub Preah
Chub Preah is a plain on the flank of the mountain. The cool water that flow between the rocks can refresh water that continue their journey. Nearby is a large, rare Champa tree, 0.7 meters in diameter and 15 meters tall. The site also has a large Buddha statue and many small statue built in the 16th century.

1,000 Lingams
One thousand lingams are located on the top of the mountain, along Stung Siem Reap. The site features impressive riverbed rock carvings include innumerable scores of yoni and lingam that sit on the bottom of a stream from which water lows year round.

Srah Damrey
Srah Damrey or the Elephant Pond is a collection of giant stone animals guarding this sacred mountain.

Terrace of the Leper King
Terrace of the Leper King or Learn Sdech Kunlung is a smooth, volcanic terrace. At the center of the terrace is a small brick temple that has been smashed to pieces. Based on the rock they were found, scientists believe the site might have been a volcano millions of years ago.

Preah Ang Thom
Preah Ang Thom is located on the mountaintop and attracts Khmer pilgrims during religious festivals. Built in the 16th century, it features a large statue of the reclining Buddha reaching nirvana. The statue is 7.5 meters tall and 8 meters long, carved into a huge sandstone boulder. the sides also offers spectacular views across lush jungle. There are two Champa tree at the site, and local people worship there because they believe the site hold great power. Preah Ang Thom is close to Chat Ruot, a multilayered umbrella, Preah Bat Choan Tuk, footprints of Buddha, and Peung Chhat Peung Eyso and Peaung Eysey, overhanging rocks.

Phnom Kulen Waterfall

Phnom Kulen waterfall farther downstream, is a good spot to cool off after explorations, it has two levels. The first level is 4 to 6 meter high and 10 to 15 meters wide, depending on whether it is the dry or rainy season. The second level is 15 to 20 meters high and 6 to 8 meters wide, depending on the season. Near the waterfall is a small jungle-covered laterite temple called Kraol Romeah temple.

Roluos
Roluos is the site of an ancient center of Khmer civilization known as Hariharalaya60, located about 12 kilometers from Siem Reap provincial town. It includes three temple––Preah Kor, Bakong and Lolei. After king Jayavarman II established his capital on Phnom Kulen in AD 802 inauguration the Rolous perhaps for a better source of food or for defense purpose. King Jayavarman II died at Roluos in AD 850. it is generally believed that his successors remained there until the capital was moved to Ba Kheng in AD 905.

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