Srah Damrei: A Quest for the Lost Sculptures of Kulen Mountain
Is This Adventure For You?
- YES if you're an adventurer who loves going off the beaten path.
- YES if you're a history buff fascinated by the ancient Khmer Empire.
- NO if you have limited time or mobility.
- NO if you dislike bumpy motorbike rides on jungle trails.
Deep within the sacred highlands of Phnom Kulen, far from the main tourist trail, lie the incredible lost sculptures of Srah Damrei (Elephant Pond). Part of the first great Angkorian capital of Mahendraparvata, reaching this remote site is a challenging but unforgettable adventure into Cambodia's ancient past.
The Reward: The Life-Sized Stone Guardians
Carved directly from the living sandstone bedrock in the 9th century, these magnificent sculptures have guarded this spot for over a thousand years.
The Elephant
The site's namesake is a breathtaking, life-sized sculpture of an elephant, perfectly detailed and standing as if it just emerged from the stone.
The Lions
Two massive lions, in the distinct pre-Angkorian style, sit majestically as if guarding the path to a forgotten temple.
And More...
Nearby, you can also find smaller but equally fascinating carvings of a frog and a cow, all hewn from the same massive boulder complex.
The Challenge: The Journey Itself
As I discovered on my own visit, getting to Srah Damrei is part of the adventure. The journey from the main Kulen waterfalls area takes about an hour on rough, sandy, and sometimes muddy jungle trails. It's a bumpy but thrilling ride that truly makes you feel like an explorer. The struggle of the journey makes the moment you finally arrive and see the sculptures standing silently in the forest all the more rewarding.
Mission Briefing: Your Plan of Attack
Enter the National Park
First, you must enter the Phnom Kulen National Park. The entrance checkpoint is at the base of the mountain.
Cost: $20 per foreign visitor / Free for Cambodians
Hire a Local Moto-Guide
Proceed to the main waterfall area. From here, you **must hire a local moto-driver** who knows the remote trails to Srah Damrei. It is not possible with a normal car or tuk-tuk.
Cost: Additional ~$15 - $25 per motorbike (negotiate before you go)
Embrace the Adventure
Enjoy the hour-long ride through the jungle. At the site, you can relax, take amazing photos, and buy fresh fruit from local vendors who live in the area.
Ready for a Real Adventure?
Srah Damrei is the ultimate experience for those looking to go beyond the usual temples. Consider booking a full-day Kulen adventure tour that includes the waterfalls, the Reclining Buddha, and this special trip to the lost sculptures.
Find a Kulen Adventure Tour