Explore Siem Reap Ancient Quarry Private Tour

Siem Reap , Cambodia

Explore Siem Reap Ancient Quarry Private Tour

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About this experience

Out of Angkor National Park, we’ll visit Kbal Spean which is located in deep the Jungles. Drive 45 mins from your hotel and we walk 1.5 kilometers in 45 mins up to the hill, you’ll see thousands of Siva linga carved on the Riverbed, Recling Vishnu and other Hindu Gods carved on Rock.

Next, we leave the Kbal spean and drive 50 mins to Beng Melea, we will visit Beng Melea We’ll enter the Beng Mealea from the West Gate, walk through the Jungle Path to the central Temple, and creep around the Sanctuary to view the Trees overgrow on the Towers and Galleries.

Then, you’ll venture to the Ancient Quarry” the Place where the ancient people took stones to build Angkor Wat”. The tour Guide will explain to you how they cut the Stones and how the Stones were transported to the Angkor Wat area.

Available options

Kbal Spean and Beng Mealea

All Entrance tickets included<br/>Pickup included

Kbal Spean and Beng Mealea temple by a Private Tour

Entrance ticket not included: -Kbal Spean $5/pax
-Beng Mealea $10/pax<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Bottle of drinking water

Air conditioned Vehicle

English Speaking Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Kbal Spean is in the jungle to the northeast of Angkor. The river over which the bridge head exists is also known as Stung Kbal Spean, a tributary of the Siem Reap River that rises in the Kulen mountain. The river bed cuts through sandstone formations, and the many architectural sculptures of Hindu mythology have been carved within the sandstone. The archaeological site occurs in a stretch of the river starts from 150 m upstream north of the bridge head to the falls downstream. The river, being sanctified by flowing over the religious sculptures, flows downstream, bifurcating into the Siem Reap River, which eventually flows into the Tonlé Sap Lake after passing through the plains and the Angkor temple complex.
The archaeological site is in the western part of the Kulein mountains. Thereafter, it is a 40-minute walk through the forest for about 1.5 kilometers uphill along a path before reaching the first site, a water, where the carved sculptures start appearing in the riverbed

Stop 2

Visit the most interesting temple outside the Angkor area, King Suryavarman II’s the 11th century Beng Mealea temple – a prototype for the more famous Angkor Wat. Beng Mealea Temple stands almost forgotten in the jungle and getting to the site is quite an adventure in itself. It was isolated during Cambodia’s civil war. It is the largest temple outside the main Angkor complex and in places it is remarkably intact, but in other places it is utterly destroyed; tree roots envelop many of the temple walls and doorways. The atmosphere here is eerie but a welcome contrast to the more visited temples closer to Angkor Wat. Beng Mealea shares many characteristics with Angkor Wat, but on a smaller scale. It has three encircling galleries, the same four gates and entrances, and a pair of interior libraries. It differs from Angkor Wat in having only one central tower instead of the famous five towers of Angkor Wat.

Visit Ancient Quarry, the place where the ancient Khmer people cut the stones to build Angkor Wat. The Tour Guide will explain you how they cut the stones, and how they transport the stones to build Angkor Wat. You will see hundred pieces of stones were cut and left there. Visit the most interesting temple outside the Angkor area, King Suryavarman II’s the 11th century Beng Mealea temple – a prototype for the more famous Angkor Wat. Beng Mealea Temple stands almost forgotten in the jungle and getting to the site is quite an adventure in itself. It was isolated during Cambodia’s civil war. It is the largest temple outside the main Angkor complex and in places it is remarkably intact, but in other places it is utterly destroyed; tree roots envelop many of the temple walls and doorways. The atmosphere here is eerie but a welcome contrast to the more visited temples closer to Angkor Wat. Beng Mealea shares

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Siem Reap

Siem Reap is the vibrant gateway to the ancient Angkor temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This charming city offers a blend of rich history, vibrant markets, and lush landscapes, making it a must-visit destination in Cambodia.

Top Attractions

Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This iconic temple complex is a masterpiece of Khmer architecture and a symbol of Cambodia.

Historical Half to full day USD 37 for 3-day pass

Angkor Thom

Angkor Thom is a walled city and the last capital of the Khmer Empire. It features several impressive temples, including the Bayon Temple with its famous smiling faces.

Historical Half to full day USD 37 for 3-day pass

Ta Prohm

Ta Prohm is a temple complex overgrown by jungle, featuring a unique blend of nature and architecture. It was famously used as a filming location for the movie 'Tomb Raider'.

Historical 1-2 hours USD 37 for 3-day pass

Pub Street

Pub Street is the heart of Siem Reap's nightlife, offering a vibrant mix of bars, restaurants, and street food vendors. It's a great place to experience the city's lively atmosphere.

Entertainment Evening Free to explore, budget for food and drinks

Siem Reap Night Market

The Siem Reap Night Market is a bustling market offering a variety of local crafts, souvenirs, and street food. It's a great place to shop for unique gifts and experience local culture.

Shopping 1-2 hours Budget to moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Amok

A creamy, coconut-based curry with fish, chicken, or tofu, steamed in banana leaves. It's a traditional Khmer dish with a unique flavor.

Main dish Vegetarian options available

Nom Banh Chok

A popular breakfast dish consisting of rice noodles topped with a fish-based green curry gravy and fresh vegetables.

Breakfast Vegetarian options available

Bai Sach Chrouk

Grilled pork served with broken rice and pickled vegetables. It's a popular breakfast dish in Cambodia.

Breakfast Contains meat

Lok Lak

A stir-fried beef dish with a tangy lime and pepper sauce, served with rice and fresh vegetables.

Main dish Contains meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Angkor Archaeological Park Exploring the bamboo train in Battambang Visiting spas and wellness centers Enjoying a traditional Khmer massage Exploring temples and historical sites Attending traditional dance performances Boat tours on Tonlé Sap Lake Swimming in waterfalls

Best Time to Visit

November to February

The best time to visit Siem Reap is during the dry season when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the temples. The cooler temperatures make it comfortable for long days of sightseeing.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Khmer
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Cambodian Riel (KHR)

Time Zone

Indochina Time (ICT), GMT+7

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Siem Reap is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of scams and overcharging.
• Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas.
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services.

Getting there

By air

Siem Reap International Airport • 5 km from city center

By bus

Siem Reap Virak Buntham Express Terminal, Siem Reap Giant Ibis Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Tuk-tuks are the most popular and affordable mode of transport in Siem Reap. They are widely available and can be negotiated for short or long trips.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PassApp, Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Wat Bo Wat Damnak Sivatha

Day trips

Battambang

150 km from Siem Reap • Full day

Battambang is a charming colonial town known for its well-preserved French architecture, bamboo train, and nearby temples. It's a great destination for a day trip from Siem Reap.

Kampong Phluk

16 km from Siem Reap • Half day

Kampong Phluk is a floating village on the edge of the Tonlé Sap Lake. It offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the local community and the stunning natural beauty of the area.

Kbal Spean

25 km from Siem Reap • Half day

Kbal Spean is a remote archaeological site featuring ancient carvings and a beautiful river setting. It's a great destination for those looking to explore off-the-beaten-path attractions.

Festivals

Khmer New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey) • April 13-15 (dates vary) Bon Om Touk (Water Festival) • November (dates vary) Angkor Photo Festival • December (dates vary)

Pro tips

Hire a local guide for the Angkor Archaeological Park to gain a deeper understanding of the temples' history and significance.
Visit the temples early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat.
Try local street food like nom banh chok and bai sach chrouk for an authentic culinary experience.
Bargain for better prices at markets and street stalls, but do so respectfully and with a smile.
Use a map app like Google Maps for navigation, as street signs can be limited and confusing.