Laang Spean Pre-historic Archeological Site

Located around 40km southwest of Battambang, Laang Spean is an ancient pre-historic site located in a scenic natural cave atop a small limestone mountain. It’s a fascinating site that, with archeological research that dates back to the 70’s, resumed in contemporary times and is ongoing. It has been occupied by humans for over 60,000 years. Excavations have revealed evidence of stone tools, pottery fragments, funerary remains, and animal bones, providing insights into the cultural practices of the people who lived in the area. The site is considered to be the reference for research on Hoabinhian culture in Southeast Asia.

Entrance to the site is at the southern foot of the small mountain where there is a large gazebo and seating. From there it’s a short climb up to the plateau and into the cave site.

An archaeological dig site has been preserved and there is a signboard detailing some of the research history and discoveries that have been made to date. Moreover, it’s a spectacular natural wonder too. At the end of the mammoth cave, whose roof collapsed long ago leaving a wonderous natural arch and an incredible little natural oasis.

At the Battambang Provincial Museum, there is an exhibition and informative display of the discoveries made here, and I’d highly recommend visiting.

Getting There

From Battambang, you can take Road 57, which is a good sealed road that leads to Pailin Province, and then take a smooth dirt road (here) that leads to the site entrance at the small mountain’s southern foothill.

References and further reading

• Laang Spean cave (Battambang province): A tale of occupation in Cambodia from the Late Upper Pleistocene to Holocene, 2015, Heng Sophady et al.

Rodney Charles LHuillier

Living in Asia for over a decade and now residing in beautiful Siem Reap. Rodney Charles L'Huillier has spent over seven years in Cambodia and is the author of Ancient Cambodia (2024) and Essential Siem Reap (2017, 2019). Contact via [email protected] - more..