Discover Beng Mealea & Koh Ker in 1 Day | Cambodia Temple Guide

Siem Reap , Cambodia

Discover Beng Mealea & Koh Ker in 1 Day | Cambodia Temple Guide

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About this experience

The tour will begin at 8:00 AM. This is your opportunity to experience one of the most renowned tours in Siem Reap, Angkor, Cambodia. You will escape the crowds and immerse yourself in local life, allowing you to enjoy your visit in a peaceful and relaxed manner.

Your first stop will be the hidden gem of Beng Mealea Temple, often referred to as the sister temple of Angkor Wat. Here, you will have the chance to explore the stunning ruins and experience the rich history of the Khmer civilization amidst the surrounding forest.

Following your visit to Beng Mealea, you will travel to the Koh Ker group of temples, where you will have the opportunity to explore even more ancient ruins. You will visit Prasat Pram Temple, Prasat Neang Khmao, Prasat Damrei, Prasat Lingas, Prasat Kroham, and the impressive Prasat Thom, also known as Koh Ker Temple.

We look forward to sharing this unforgettable experience with you!

Available options

Discover Beng Mealea & Koh Ker in 1 Day | Cambodia Temple Guide

Pickup included

What's included

Air-Con Vehicle

Cool Water & Towels

English Tour Guide

A picnic lunch & drink

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Today starts at 8.00 AM, we will visit Prasat Beng Mealea. Beng Mealea is the most popular remote jungle temple in Cambodia, it’s located in the north east of Siem Reap city about 66 Km by road. Beng Mealea is the incredible ruins that still living harmony in the nature of its original ruined condition. It’s untouched by the restoration and conservation project. It opened to visitors in the early 2000 after the land mine was cleared. Beng Mealea was built by King Suriyavarman II and then completed by King Dharanindravarman II. The sarcophagus looking urn: “Indiana Jones” kingdom of the environment with piles of falling stones and dark galleries. Enjoyable, provided you exercise caution during your visit!

After your incredible visit to the Beng Mealea, continue your journey to explore the magnificent Koh Ker. It’s renowned as the ancient capital city of King Jayavarman IV. This historic site, originally known as Chhoarkoki or Lingapura, is home to hundreds of Hindu temples.

Once a thriving capital under the reign of King Jayavarman IV, Koh Ker was characterized by its sacred sanctuaries, fertile farmlands, water reservoirs, rivers, and vibrant communities, complete with traditional houses. King J4 is celebrated as one of the most remarkable rulers of the Khmer Empire, visiting Koh Ker offers a unique glimpse into this fascinating period of history. This tour is a rare opportunity, as not many tourists have the chance to explore this ancient city. While some of the holy sanctuaries may not be accessible, all the major are okay. Some travelers also combine their exploration of Koh Ker with Preah Vihear or Beng Mealea temples, creating a rich and unforgettable experience.

In the Cambodian countryside, most of the Cambodian people are farmers and fishermen. These larger groups of people are interested in living their village lives, and they easily move around for farming and fishing. These two occupations are their main sources of income to support their families. They rely on rice and fish for their daily meals. Cambodia is one of the countries most affected by flooding in the world, so agriculture is the primary focus of farming in Cambodia. We grow rice, potatoes, cashews, bananas, mangoes, durian, peppers, sugar palm trees, jackfruit, oranges, and various vegetables. Cambodian crops are grown organically, benefiting from the country's fertility. It’s truly amazing to take a few hours to explore the local villages and their communities. After your tour, we will transfer you back to your hotel in Siem Reap city. Enjoy your stay and relax. Thank you for choosing our tour services!

What's not included

Hotel Accommodation

Beng Mealea Ticket

Koh Ker Temple Ticket

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

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.