Beng Mealea and Floating Village Kampong Phluk Tour: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you planning to visit Siem Reap, Cambodia? If so, make sure to include the Beng Mealea and Floating Village Kampong Phluk Tour in your itinerary. This tour offers an excellent opportunity to explore the history and culture of Siem Reap, from the early Khmer civilization to the unique floating villages.Tour Overview
The Beng Mealea and Floating Village Kampong Phluk Tour is a day-long adventure that takes you to three different locations in Siem Reap. It is an excellent opportunity to see some of the exotic places in the region. The tour starts with a visit to Beng Mealea, which is a remote jungle temple. This temple was constructed in the 12th century and has been used as a movie set in recent years. The temple is still untouched, so it provides visitors with an authentic look at how these structures looked centuries ago. After that, you’ll explore the unique floating villages of Kampong Phluk, which feature stilted homes, schools, and even temples. You’ll get a chance to learn about the local lifestyle of the people living in the floating village, and take a boat ride through the village. The final stop on the tour is the Roluos Temples. Here, you’ll learn about the beginning of Khmer civilization and explore the oldest temples in the region, including Bakong, Lolei, and Preah Ko. Your guide will provide insights into the history and culture of these temples and the people who built them.What’s Included?
The following are some of the inclusions in the Beng Mealea and Floating Village Kampong Phluk Tour:- English-Speaking Tour Guide
- Transportation in an air-conditioned car or minivan
- Cruise ride and entrance fee to Kampong Pluk
- One Day Angkor Pass, which costs $37 USD per person
Meeting and Pickup
The tour starts at 8:00 AM, and you’ll be picked up from your hotel lobby. The pickup points are generally the hotels in Siem Reap.What to Expect on the Tour
The Beng Mealea and Floating Village Kampong Phluk Tour is a fun-filled adventure that takes you through some of the lesser-known places in Siem Reap. You can expect the following things on the tour:Exploring the Jungle Temple: Beng Mealea
Beng Mealea is an ancient temple built in the 12th century that lies deep in the jungle. The temple is relatively unknown compared to other temples in the region, but it is one of the best preserved temples in Cambodia. You’ll get a chance to explore the temple and see intricate carvings and reliefs on the walls.Experiencing the Unique Floating Village: Kampong Phluk
Kampong Phluk is one of the few floating villages in the region. The village is built on stilts, and you can take a boat ride through it to see how the locals live. The village also features a temple and a school, and you’ll get a chance to learn about the local culture and lifestyle.Learning About the Oldest Temples in the Region: Roluos Temples
The Roluos Temples are the oldest temples in the region, dating back to the 9th and 10th centuries. The temples are built in the early Khmer style and are made of brick and sandstone. Your guide will provide insights into the history and culture of these temples and the people who built them.How to Prepare for the Tour
Here are a few tips to help you prepare for the Beng Mealea and Floating Village Kampong Phluk Tour:Choose Comfortable Clothing and Footwear
It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing and footwear as the tour involves walking and climbing stairs. Wear lightweight clothing that is ideal for hot and humid weather.Stay Hydrated
It’s important to stay hydrated during the tour. Carry a water bottle and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.Other Important Information
Here is some extra information that you should know before booking the tour:- The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility issues as some of the temples have steep stairs and uneven paths.
- The tour involves traveling in an air-conditioned car or minivan, so it’s essential to carry motion sickness medication if required.
- The tour is fairly affordable and is suitable for budget travelers, families, and groups.
Book the Tour Now
The Beng Mealea and Floating Village Kampong Phluk Tour is an excellent way to explore the more hidden and exotic places in Siem Reap. It’s also a great way to learn about the history and culture of the region. Book the tour here to experience the best that Siem Reap has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Siem Reap
If you are planning a trip to Cambodia, then Siem Reap is a must-visit place. This city is famous as it’s the gateway to Angkor Wat, the most extensive religious monument in the world. Here in this article, we’ll answer all your Siem Reap related questions so that you can plan your trip without any hassle.1. Where is Siem Reap?
Siem Reap is a city located in the northwestern part of Cambodia. It’s the capital city of the Siem Reap Province.2. What is the best time to visit Siem Reap?
The best time to visit Siem Reap is from November to March when the weather is dry and pleasant. During these months, you’ll have a great time exploring the temples of Angkor Wat and other attractions in Siem Reap. However, you can also visit this city during the rainy season (May to October), but you should be prepared for frequent showers.3. What are the top things to do in Siem Reap?
Siem Reap is a popular tourist destination in Cambodia as it offers various exciting activities and attractions. Some of the top things to do in Siem Reap are:- Visit Angkor Wat and other temples
- Take a balloon ride over the temples
- Visit the Tonle Sap Lake and floating villages
- Explore the Siem Reap night market
- Take a Khmer cooking class
- Enjoy traditional Apsara dance performances
4. How do I get to Siem Reap?
Siem Reap is well-connected to other major cities in Cambodia and neighboring countries. You can reach Siem Reap by:- Flight: The Siem Reap International Airport is well-connected to major cities in Southeast Asia. You can take a direct flight from Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Ho Chi Minh City, and other major cities.
- Bus: Siem Reap has a bus station that provides regular bus services to other major cities in Cambodia, such as Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, and Battambang.
- Taxi: You can also hire a taxi or join a shared taxi to reach Siem Reap from other cities.
5. What is the currency used in Siem Reap?
The official currency of Cambodia is the Cambodian Riel (KHR). However, the US dollar is also widely accepted in Siem Reap, and most transactions are carried out in USD.6. Is Siem Reap a safe city for tourists?
Siem Reap is generally a safe city for tourists. However, petty crimes like theft and pick-pocketing are common in crowded areas, so it’s advisable to keep your belongings safe. Also, be cautious while walking alone at night and avoid dark and isolated places.7. What are some famous foods to try in Siem Reap?
Cambodian cuisine is a mix of various regional and international flavors and is known for its freshness, simplicity, and flavors. Some famous foods to try in Siem Reap are:- Amok – a traditional Khmer steamed fish curry
- Loc Lac – a beef dish served with a fried egg and a side of fresh vegetables
- Banana Blossom Salad – a refreshing salad made with banana flowers, chicken, and peanuts
- Kuy Teav – a Khmer noodle soup with pork, beef, or seafood
- Num Banh Chok – a breakfast noodle dish served with fresh herbs and a fish-based gravy
8. What is the dress code to visit Angkor Wat and other temples?
Angkor Wat and other temples in Siem Reap are religious monuments, and visitors are expected to dress modestly and respectfully. The dress code for visiting temples in Siem Reap requires visitors to cover their shoulders and knees at all times. It’s also advisable to wear comfortable and breathable clothes as you’ll have to walk and climb a lot.9. What are the recommended accommodations in Siem Reap?
Siem Reap offers various accommodation options, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Some of the recommended accommodations in Siem Reap are:- Shinta Mani Shack – A luxury resort located near the city center
- Golden Temple Retreat – A boutique hotel near the Angkor Wat temple complex
- Central Corner d’Angkor – A budget-friendly guesthouse
- Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor – A high-end resort with traditional Khmer architecture
How to spend your time as a tourist in Siem Reap
Siem Reap is a vibrant city located in the northwestern part of Cambodia, and it is famous for its ancient temples, rich history, and colorful culture. If you’re planning to visit Siem Reap as a tourist, you’ll find plenty of exciting things to see and do. To help you make the most of your visit, this guide provides a step-by-step plan you can follow to enjoy your vacation to the fullest.Day 1: Explore the Angkor Archaeological Park
The Angkor Archaeological Park is the most famous attraction in Siem Reap and covers over 400km². This ancient city showcases the great Khmer Empire, with several grand temples, palaces, and other ancient structures. To make the most of your visit, you can follow this itinerary:Morning
Start your day early to avoid the crowds. Head to the main temple, Angkor Wat, which is the most well-preserved and grandest temple in the park. You can spend several hours exploring the temple’s intricate carvings and courtyards.Lunchtime
Take a break and grab lunch at one of the many local restaurants located near the temples. Try the traditional Cambodian dish of fish amok, which is a fish curry cooked in a banana leaf.Afternoon
After lunch, head to the Bayon Temple, which is famous for its many stone faces carved into the temple walls. This temple is located in the center of the park and can get crowded, so try to visit during non-peak hours. You can also explore other temples nearby, such as Ta Prohm, which was used as a filming location for Angelina Jolie’s “Tomb Raider” movie.Evening
End your day at the Angkor Night Market, located in the center of the city. You can find many local souvenirs, handmade crafts, and delicious street food. Try the traditional Khmer BBQ skewers or the refreshing coconut drinks.Day 2: Visit the Floating Village and Tonle Sap Lake
Tonle Sap Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, and it’s located near Siem Reap. The lake is home to several floating villages, where people live on simple floating homes and sustain themselves by fishing. You can explore the village and take a boat ride to see their way of life.Morning
Start your day by hiring a tuk-tuk driver to take you to the floating village. The ride takes about 30 minutes, and you can enjoy the scenic views along the way. When you arrive, you can take a boat ride and explore the village. You can also see the fishing techniques that villagers use to catch fish and other aquatic creatures.Lunchtime
After the boat ride, you can grab lunch at one of the local restaurants located near the lake. Try the traditional fish dishes and local vegetables, which are fresh and delicious.Afternoon
In the afternoon, you can take a tour around the lake and visit some of the other villages. You can see how locals live and work on the water, and learn about their daily lives. You may also spot some rare bird species, such as the painted stork or the Asian openbill.Evening
End your day by watching the sunset over Tonle Sap Lake. The view is breathtaking, and it’s a perfect way to end your visit.Day 3: Discover the Local Culture
Siem Reap has a rich and colorful culture, and there are plenty of opportunities to learn about it. You can visit museums, attend traditional dance performances, or experience the local food.Morning
Start your day by visiting the Cambodia Landmine Museum and Relief Center. This museum showcases the recovery and rehabilitation of landmine victims, and it’s a great way to learn about the history of Cambodia’s civil war.Lunchtime
During lunchtime, visit the Angkor Artwork and Food Center. The center offers cooking classes, where you can learn how to cook traditional dishes such as Khmer red curry or banana blossom salad. After the cooking class, you can enjoy your own creation.Afternoon
In the afternoon, you can visit the Angkor National Museum, which houses several artifacts and exhibits showcasing the history of Siem Reap and Angkor. You can also visit the Cambodian Cultural Village, which is an open-air museum that showcases the culture and traditions of Cambodia.Evening
End your day by watching a traditional dance performance at one of the local theaters, such as the Phare, the Cambodian Circus. The circus showcases the skills and talents of Cambodian performers, and it’s a memorable experience that you won’t forget.Final Thoughts
Siem Reap is a great destination for tourists, whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just want to relax and enjoy beautiful views. This guide provides a step-by-step plan for your visit and covers the most popular attractions in the city. Make sure to optimize your itinerary based on your interests, and don’t forget to try the delicious local food.Table of Contents
