How to Plan Your 2-Day Beng Mealea, Koh Ker and Preah Vihear Exploration Tour in Siem Reap

If you’re planning a trip to Siem Reap and looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-track experience, the 2-day Beng Mealea, Koh Ker, and Preah Vihear exploration tour is perfect for you. This tour offers you the chance to explore three of Cambodia’s most impressive ancient temples without the crowds that usually flock to Angkor Wat. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your 2-day adventure.

Day 1: Beng Mealea and Koh Ker

Your tour starts with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Siem Reap. Your driver will take you to Beng Mealea, a beautifully restored ruined temple located 40km from Siem Reap. The temple is known for its striking architecture and unique jungle setting that will transport you back in time. After exploring Beng Mealea, your guide will take you to Koh Ker, a remote temple that was once the capital of the Khmer Empire. The temple is known for its towering pyramid structures and detailed carvings, providing an opportunity to experience an alternative side of Cambodian history.

You will spend the night in a 3-star local hotel with breakfast included.

Day 2: Preah Vihear

On day two, your driver will take you to Preah Vihear, a UNESCO World Heritage site located on the border of Cambodia and Thailand. The temple is set on a mountaintop, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The temple was constructed in the 11th century and is one of the most important examples of Khmer architecture. Your guide will take you through the temple, providing you with historical information that you may have missed otherwise.

After exploring Preah Vihear, you will be driven back to your hotel in Siem Reap where you will arrive in the late afternoon/evening.

What’s Included

The tour includes everything you need to have a comfortable and enjoyable trip. You will receive a private air-conditioned vehicle for all of your transportation needs throughout the trip. The tour also includes entrance tickets for Beng Mealea and Koh Ker temple, and Preah Vihea temple. In addition, 1-night accommodation hotel pickup, drop-off, and transfers are included.

Why You Should Choose This Tour

This tour is perfect for anyone looking to escape the crowds and explore stunning ancient temples in Siem Reap. By opting for a multi-day tour, you’ll be able to explore at a more relaxed pace while your guide-driver takes care of navigation, leaving you with more time to focus on the scenery.

Moreover, the tour covers three temples, each with its own unique story and set of intricacies. Exploring these temples with an experienced guide provides an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the ancient Khmer civilization and enhance your overall experience. Additionally, the trip includes hotel accommodation, hotel transfers, and entrance fees, which means that you can sit back and relax while the logistics are taken care of.

How to Book

If you’re interested in booking the 2-day Beng Mealea, Koh Ker, and Preah Vihear exploration tour, you can book it through Viator by clicking here.

In conclusion, the 2-day Beng Mealea, Koh Ker, and Preah Vihear exploration tour is an excellent choice for anyone looking to escape the crowds and explore some of Cambodia’s most impressive temples. With hotel accommodation, hotel transfers, and entrance fees included in the tour, you can enjoy a hassle-free adventure while immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of Siem Reap.

Siem Reap: Answers to the Most Frequently Asked Questions

Siem Reap, the capital city of Siem Reap Province in Cambodia, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia, thanks to its rich cultural heritage, ancient temples, and fascinating history. If you’re planning to visit Siem Reap or are curious about this vibrant city, we’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions and their answers to help you plan your trip better.

1. What is the best time to visit Siem Reap?

The best time to visit Siem Reap is between November to April, when the weather is dry and sunny. During this time, the temperatures are moderate, and the humidity levels are low. However, this is also the peak season, and the city can get crowded with tourists. If you’re looking for a more relaxed trip and don’t mind a little rain, you can consider visiting Siem Reap during the off-season, between May to October.

2. Do I need a visa to enter Cambodia?

Yes, most visitors need a visa to enter Cambodia, including Siem Reap. However, citizens of some countries, including ASEAN member states, do not need a visa or can get a visa on arrival. It’s advisable to check with the Cambodian embassy in your country to find out the visa requirements and apply well ahead of your travel date.

3. How do I get to Siem Reap?

Siem Reap is well-connected to other parts of Cambodia and neighboring countries by air, road, and water. The city has its airport, the Siem Reap International Airport, which is served by several domestic and international airlines. You can also travel to Siem Reap by bus or boat from other parts of Cambodia, such as Phnom Penh or Battambang.

4. Where should I stay in Siem Reap?

Siem Reap has a wide range of accommodation options, ranging from budget hostels to luxurious five-star hotels. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay, you can consider staying in one of the hostels or guesthouses located in the city center. For a more upscale stay, you can opt for one of the luxurious hotels located near the Siem Reap temple complex. It’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak season.

5. What are the must-visit temples in Siem Reap?

Siem Reap is home to several ancient temples, including the world-famous Angkor Wat temple complex, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other must-visit temples include the Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm Temple, Banteay Srei Temple, and Preah Khan Temple. It’s advisable to allocate at least two to three days to explore the temples and the archaeological sites of Siem Reap properly.

6. What is the currency used in Siem Reap?

The official currency of Cambodia is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), but US dollars are widely accepted in Siem Reap. You can exchange your currency to either Cambodian Riel or US dollars at one of the many currency exchange counters located throughout the city.

7. What are some must-try Cambodian dishes?

Cambodian cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with a mix of Khmer, Chinese, and French influences. Some must-try dishes in Siem Reap include Amok curry, a traditional Khmer dish made from fish, coconut milk, and spices; Lok lak, a stir-fried beef dish served with rice and a fried egg; and Bai sach chrouk, a popular breakfast dish made from grilled pork served with rice, pickles, and a light broth.

8. Is Siem Reap safe for tourists?

Siem Reap is generally safe for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, it’s advisable to take precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night in dark and deserted areas, carrying valuables and cash with you, and being vigilant of your surroundings. It’s also advisable to take a licensed taxi or tuk-tuk to travel around the city.

9. What can I do in Siem Reap besides visiting temples?

Apart from exploring the ancient temples, Siem Reap has several other things to offer, such as taking a sunset cruise on the Tonle Sap lake, visiting the Angkor National Museum, exploring the night markets and street food stalls, and taking a cooking class to learn how to prepare authentic Cambodian cuisine.

10. What should I pack for my trip to Siem Reap?

When packing for your trip to Siem Reap, it’s advisable to keep in mind the weather and the activities you plan to do. Some essential items to pack include lightweight cotton clothing, comfortable shoes, a hat or a scarf to protect you from the sun, a rain jacket or an umbrella in case of rain, and mosquito repellent.

In conclusion, Siem Reap is a fascinating city with a rich cultural heritage and history, and there are several things you can do and explore during your visit. By keeping these frequently asked questions and their answers in mind, you can plan your trip better and make the most of your time in this beautiful city.