Angkor Chub: Phnom Kulen's Sacred Spring
Who Is This For?
- The Explorer: If you hate crowds and love "discovering" hidden ruins in the jungle.
- The Seeker: This is a highly active spot for meditation and collecting holy water.
- The Hiker: The journey involves traveling through dense, beautiful cashew plantations and forest.
While most visitors to Phnom Kulen National Park flock to the main waterfall, a quieter, more spiritual experience awaits at Angkor Chub. Tucked away in the jungle, this fascinating site combines natural beauty with ancient reverence, offering a unique glimpse into the soul of the holy mountain.
What You'll Discover
Angkor Chub is defined by its name—"Chub" means "Spring."
The Holy Spring
The central feature is a natural spring where crystal-clear water trickles directly out of the rock face. It is believed to have healing powers, and you will see locals bottling it to take home.
11th-Century Carvings
Look closely at the boulders surrounding the spring. You will find ancient carvings of Vishnu and other deities carved directly into the living rock during the reign of King Suryavarman I.
The Atmosphere
Unlike the noisy waterfall area, Angkor Chub is silent. The sound of the wind in the trees and the gentle trickle of the water create a perfect environment for meditation.
Traveler's Notebook: How to Get There
Logistics: Angkor Chub is located about 5km from the main Reclining Buddha (Preah Ang Thom). The trail is sandy and narrow.
The Transport Hack: Do not try to walk unless you are a serious hiker. Instead, look for the local "Moto-Dops" (motorbike taxis) waiting near the Preah Ang Thom staircase. For a small fee (approx. $5-$10), they will zip you through the jungle trails right to the site and wait for you.
Ticket: Your standard $20 Kulen Ticket covers this area. No extra fee is required.
