Phnom Neang Kang Buddha Nirvana

Located around 10km south of the RN 6 right on the border of Pursat and Kampong Chhnang Provinces is a small mountain, also known as Phnom Kangva, featuring a beautiful carving of a reclining Buddha/Buddha Nirvana. It is over a meter high and several meters long, cut directly into the sandstone face of the mountain at the point of a small plateau. On an adjacent rockface, there is an outline of a character riding an elephant and in another spot, a small niche where sacred items were likely placed.

The carving appears typical of that belonging to the Middle Period and shows fine execution around the face. As for its exact date and era, I have not come across any research into the area other than that at Phnom Kuk also noting the nearby Phnom Kachchot Borey, and the high possibility of there being undiscovered/undocumented sites. On the trail leading up, there are also superb views out across the plains and nearby mountains.

Getting there – From the RN 5, turning south here, site is reached by a short ride down a red-dirt road in good condition for around 9km turning left onto a good dirt road for almost 3km, turning left again and taking a trail to the base of the mountain, from there, a partially completed rocky road leads up the mountain to a shelter, and from there, a steepish and rocky foot trail leading up to the plateau.

Back on the main dirt road, keep heading south for a few minutes to reach Phnom Kuk and then Phnom Kachchot Borey.

Rodney Charles LHuillier

Living in Asia for over a decade and now residing in beautiful Siem Reap - Contact via rod@helloangkor.com - more..