The birthplace of the ancient Khmer empire, it is said that it was at Phnom Kulen that King Jayavarman II proclaimed Cambodia's independence from Java. Additionally it's a very sacred site with multiple temples easily accessible.It's cut from sandstone, a part of the mountain, and, at 8 meters, is one of the biggest in Cambodia. The River of a Thousand Lingas highlights carvings in the riverbed itself, going back to the Khmer Empire, and is completely uncovered in the dry season.