Sacred Stones & Jungle Ruins: Beng Mealea and Banteay Srei

Siem Reap , Cambodia

Sacred Stones & Jungle Ruins: Beng Mealea and Banteay Srei

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8h - 9h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour starts after breakfast at 8:00am where we will start the journey to Beng Mealea Temple. Along the way, we’ll stop at Dom Dek market to see what a local market looks like and you can see how the locals do their grocery shopping! We’ll continue our journey to Beng Mealea which is known as the “hidden jungle” temple and shares remarkable similarities with Angkor Wat. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the Cambodian Landmine Museum where we will stop along the way to Banteay Srei temple, also known as the jewel of Angkor. It’s the only temple in Cambodia which was build from red sandstone blocks.

Available options

Sacred Stones & Jungle Ruins: Beng Mealea and Banteay Srei

Pickup included

What's included

Cool water and towels

Experienced English speaking local guide

Air-conditioned vehicle

Pick up / drop off from / at your hotel

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We’ll come and pick you up from 8:00am at your hotel and start the journey to Beng Mealea along the national road No. 6 towards Phnom Penh. About halfway along the journey, we’ll stop at Dom Dek market which is one of the most popular local markets. After exploring the market, we’ll continue our journey to Beng Mealea temple which is a large jungle temple covering an area of around one square kilometre. This temple has been largely left in ruins which adds to the feeling of a “lost temple”.

Here, you’ll see many trees literally growing through the temple which makes it a perfect spot for photographers looking to get some detailed temple photos. The temple was built in the style of Angkor Wat and it was built by the same king. Many historians believe that Beng Mealea might have served as a prototype for the world-famous Angkor Wat.

Stop 2

We’ll then stop for lunch in a local restaurant and continue our journey to Banteay Srei temple. Along the way, we’ll stop at the Cambodia Landmine Museum. Here, you can learn about how the Cambodian people have been affected by landmines as a result of decades of conflict including the genocidal Khmer Rouge, a civil war, the Vietnamese occupation and extensive bombings from the USA.

Many of Cambodia’s landmines have been cleared but there are still millions which are still affected people all over the country. There’s still a lot of work to be done.

Stop 3

Finally, we’ll head to Banteay Srei which translates into English as the “Citadel of the Women”. It refers to the delicate nature of the carvings which are so fine, it’s said that they could only have been done by the hands of woman.

What's not included

Accommodation

All expenses are not mentioned as above

Angkor temples complex

Meals

Tipping and personal expenses

Cambodian Landmine Museum

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

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.