Phnom Kulen
Phnom Kulen, also romanized as (Phnom Koulen, Phnum Kulén or Koulen Mountain) (Khmer: ភ្នំគូលេន, meaning "Mountain of Lychees") is a mountain range in Siem Reap Province, Cambodia.
Geography
Rather than a hill range, Phnom Kulen is an isolated chain of small mountain plateaux of moderate height lying south of the Dângrêk Mountains. The range stretches for about 40 km in a WNW - ESE direction and is located some 48 km north of Siem Reap.
Its highest point is 487 m and its height is quite regular, averaging 400 m all along the range.
Geologically Phnom Kulen is formed of sandstone. It was important as a quarry in Angkorian times, the major quarries being located in the southeastern angle of the massif.
Protected area
There is a sanctuary in the area, Phnom Kulen National Park, straddling the districts of Svay Len and Va Rin. Its purpose is recreational and scientific in order to preserve the natural scenic features of Phnom Kulen mountain, like some famous waterfalls.
The park is located about 48 km to the north of the provincial town of Siem Reap.
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