How to Plan Your Full-Day Tour to Beng Mealea and Koh Ker from Siem Reap
If you’re visiting Siem Reap, Cambodia, and looking for a unique experience to explore the nearby temples, this full-day tour to Beng Mealea and Koh Ker might be perfect for you. The tour is operated by a professional English-speaking guide, and transportation is provided by car, mini-van, or coach with a professional driver. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your tour:
Overview
The Beng Mealea and Koh Ker temples are located about two hours outside of Siem Reap, nestled deep in the Cambodian countryside. With this tour, you’ll get to escape the crowds and experience daily life in rural Cambodia, passing small villages and pristine jungle on the way to the temples. The ruins of Beng Mealea and Koh Ker date back to the 10th and 11th centuries and offer a glimpse into the history of the Angkor kingdom.
What’s Included
The tour includes everything you need for a full day of exploration, including:
- Hotel pickup and drop-off from Siem Reap
- Transportation by car, mini-van, or coach with a professional driver
- All entrance and donation fees for visits as mentioned in the description
- A full-day tour with a professional English-speaking guide
- A picnic lunch near the temples
- Personal expenses such as meals
Itinerary
The tour starts with hotel pickup in Siem Reap and departs for Beng Mealea temple, which is located about 70 km east of the city. Here’s the full itinerary:
- 7:30 AM – Hotel pickup in Siem Reap
- 9:00 AM – Arrival at Beng Mealea temple
- 11:30 AM – Departure for Koh Ker temple
- 12:30 PM – Picnic lunch near Koh Ker temple
- 2:30 PM – Return to Siem Reap
- 4:30 PM – Hotel drop-off in Siem Reap
What to Bring
Be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and a camera. Since the tour includes a picnic lunch, you might also want to bring a refillable water bottle and any additional snacks you might need.
How to Book
To book your full-day tour to Beng Mealea and Koh Ker from Siem Reap, simply head over to Viator’s website and book the tour online. The link to book the tour is: book the tour here.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an unforgettable way to explore the Cambodian countryside and get up close and personal with ancient temple ruins, this full-day tour to Beng Mealea and Koh Ker from Siem Reap is the way to go. With a professional guide, transportation, and a picnic lunch included, all you need to do is show up with a sense of adventure and a willingness to explore.
Most Frequently Asked Questions about Siem Reap
Siem Reap is a historic city in Cambodia that is popular among travelers for its stunning temples, rich culture, and adventurous activities. Visitors from all over the world come to Siem Reap to explore its hidden gems and indulge in the Khmer culture. We have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about Siem Reap to help travelers plan their visit to this enchanting city.
1. What is the best time to visit Siem Reap?
The best time to visit Siem Reap is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is cool and dry, making outdoor activities and sightseeing comfortable. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodations and activities. If you prefer fewer crowds and are looking for budget-friendly options, consider visiting during the rainy season (May – October).
2. What are the top things to do in Siem Reap?
Siem Reap offers a wide range of activities to please all types of travelers. The most popular activities include visiting ancient temples such as Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and Bayon, exploring the floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake, strolling around the night markets, trying local cuisine, experiencing Khmer traditional dance and music performances, and getting a massage at one of the many spas in the city.
3. How can I get around Siem Reap?
Getting around Siem Reap is relatively easy with several options available such as taxis, tuk-tuks, and bicycles. Taxis, ride-sharing services like Grab, and private cars can be hired from the airport or arranged through your hotel, but these options will be more expensive than tuk-tuks or bicycles. Tuk-tuks are the most common and cost-effective option for short trips and sightseeing, and can usually be found on any street corner. Bicycles are also an affordable option and provide a great way to explore the city at your own pace.
4. What about the local currency and payment methods?
The local currency in Cambodia is Riel (KHR), but US dollars are widely accepted, especially in the tourist areas. Credit cards are also accepted in most establishments in Siem Reap, so it’s recommended to bring a mix of cash and credit cards for your trip. ATMs are prevalent throughout the city, and currency exchange booths are available at the airport and in the downtown area.
5. What is the dress code for visiting temples in Siem Reap?
When visiting temples in Siem Reap, it’s important to dress appropriately as a sign of respect to the Khmer culture. Shoulders and knees must be covered, and visitors are advised to wear comfortable clothing that is suitable for walking and climbing stairs. Wearing comfortable shoes is also recommended as some temple complexes require a lot of walking.
6. Is Siem Reap safe for travelers?
Siem Reap is generally safe for travelers as long as they take adequate precautions to avoid scams and theft. It’s advisable to keep your valuables, including passports, cash, and electronics, in hotel safes or secure their belongings while touring the city. It’s always best to keep a close eye on your personal belongings and make sure to stay in lit and busy areas at night.
7. How can I learn about the Khmer culture in Siem Reap?
There are several ways to learn about the Khmer culture in Siem Reap, including visiting museums and attending traditional dance performances. You can also take a cooking class to learn how to make local cuisine or take a tour to learn about the history and significance of the different temples. A great way to learn first-hand about the Khmer culture is to interact with locals and immerse yourself in their daily lives.
8. What should I know about local customs and etiquette?
To avoid cultural misunderstandings in Siem Reap, it’s essential to understand local customs and etiquette. Greeting people with a smile is acceptable and appreciated, and it’s polite to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or temple. Pointing with your feet, standing over seated people, and touching someone’s head are considered rude in Khmer culture. Tipping is not customary in Cambodia, but rounding up to the nearest dollar for tuk-tuk rides or 10% for food service is appreciated in tourist areas.
9. What are the options for shopping in Siem Reap?
There are many shopping options in Siem Reap, ranging from street markets to high-end boutiques. The Old Market and Night Market are popular places to find souvenirs such as handicrafts, silks, and apparel, while Pub Street offers a range of shops and restaurants. If you’re looking for more upscale shopping, check out the Angkor Handicraft Association, where you can find high-quality silk products and handicrafts made by local artisans.
10. What is the food like in Siem Reap?
Siem Reap is home to a diverse culinary scene, and visitors can try a variety of dishes ranging from Khmer cuisine to international fusion dishes. Must-try local dishes include fish amok (a curry made with fish and coconut milk), lok lak (stir-fried beef with a tangy sauce), and bai sach chrouk (grilled pork with rice). Vegetarians and vegans can also find plenty of options in Siem Reap, with many restaurants serving plant-based dishes made from fresh local ingredients.
Conclusion
Siem Reap is a delightful city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventurer, there’s no shortage of activities and experiences to enjoy in this charming Cambodian city. By understanding the local customs, currency, and etiquette, and taking necessary safety precautions, you’ll have an enjoyable and unforgettable trip to Siem Reap. We hope this guide has answered some of your most frequently asked questions and helped you plan a smooth and rewarding visit to Siem Reap.
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