Phnom Kulen, the birthplace of the Khmer Empire is the exact spot where in 802 AD that Jayavarman II proclaimed himself a god king and the mighty Khmer Empire was born. The importance of Phnom Kulen to the Cambodian people can not be underestimated. It is considered one of the most sacred spots to them. Pilgrimages to the hill range occur frequently, but can be very colorful especially during holidays and the weekend. The mountainous national park, with a high peak of about 490 meters, is a natural haven filled with green trees and rivers. Sitting side by side peacefully with this nature is some great creations from man, Kbal Spean. Kbal Spean is a unique site. Also known as the temple of a thousand lingas, it consists of a series of stone carvings in and around the Stung Kbal Spean river that also stretches out to one of the waterfalls. The waters are considered sacred by the locals because Jayavarman II used to bathe there.