Preah Ang Thom: The Giant Reclining Buddha

The Sacred Summit of Phnom Kulen

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Location

Phnom Kulen Mountain Summit.

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Ticket

Included in the $20 Kulen Pass.

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Rule

Remove shoes & hats before climbing.

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Vibe

Sacred, Busy, Fragrant (Incense/Flowers).

After journeying up the sacred Phnom Kulen, past the waterfall and the River of a Thousand Lingas, you reach the spiritual heart of the mountain: Preah Ang Thom. This active and revered pagoda is home to one of Cambodia's most impressive religious monuments—a giant Reclining Buddha carved directly into the living rock.

The Experience

The Statue in the Stone

The centerpiece is the magnificent 8-meter-long Reclining Buddha reaching Nirvana. What makes it unique is that it wasn't built on top of the rock—it was carved out of the massive natural sandstone boulder at the peak. It dates back to the 16th century and is painted in vibrant gold.

The Viewpoint

After paying your respects, walk around the side of the sanctuary. The boulder sits on the very edge of the cliff, offering a stunning panoramic view over the endless green canopy of the Kulen National Park. It is a moment of pure peace.

Visitor's Etiquette Guide

• Dress Respectfully: This is a holy site. Shoulders and knees must be covered. No tank tops.
• Shoe Check: You must leave your shoes (and hats/sunglasses) at the bottom of the Naga staircase before climbing up to the statue.
• The Footprint: Don't miss the shrine to the left of the main entrance containing a large, sacred Buddha Footprint.
• Smell the Flowers: The courtyard is filled with ancient Cham Pa (Frangipani) trees. Their white flowers release a beautiful scent that mixes with the incense smoke.