Why Stone Bridge Matters
Stone Bridge, locally known as Spean Thma, is a rare intact example of 12th-century Khmer corbelled-arch construction. Built during the reign of Suryavarman II, the same king who commissioned Angkor Wat, the bridge once carried the royal road from Angkor to the sandstone quarries of Phnom Kulen. Its 15 narrow spans, each formed by massive laterite and sandstone blocks fitted without mortar, still support foot traffic today.
What to See and Do
Approach from the western bank for the best view of the tapering arches reflected in the shallow stream below. Walk the full 60-metre length, noting the laterite blocks still bearing faint chisel marks. Local families sometimes picnic on the eastern side; ask permission before joining them. Photographers should visit in late afternoon when light rakes across the textured stone.
Practical Visit
Allow 45 minutes on site. Combine the stop with a morning trip to Banteay Srei (15 km north) or an afternoon visit to Kbal Spean (12 km east). There are no facilities at the bridge itself, so bring water and insect repellent.
How to Get There
From Siem Reap, follow Route 67 north for 35 km, then turn right onto a laterite track signposted for Spean Thma. The final 4 km are unpaved; a tuk-tuk or small car can manage it in the dry season. GPS coordinates 13.4195 N, 104.4848 E lead directly to the western abutment.
Best Time to Visit
November through February offers cool mornings and reliable road access. From March to May the stream may dry to a trickle, revealing the bridge’s full height. Avoid the wet season (June–October) when flash floods can make the approach track impassable.
Nearby Attractions
- Banteay Srei – the “pink temple” with intricate carvings
- Kbal Spean – riverbed carvings and waterfall
- Phnom Kulen National Park – sacred mountain and reclining Buddha
- Preah Khan – jungle temple on the ancient royal road
