How to Plan Your Koh Ker and Beng Mealea Temples Tour from Siem Reap

Siem Reap is a perfect place to start exploring the beauty of Cambodia. For those who want to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of the Khmer Empire, a day tour to Koh Ker and Beng Mealea Temples is an excellent option. This full-day tour allows you to explore the ancient history and experience the authentic village lifestyle of Cambodia. Here’s how to plan your Koh Ker and Beng Mealea Temples Tour from Siem Reap:

Experience

During this tour, you will explore two ancient temples of the Khmer Empire that are less frequently visited than the iconic Angkor Wat. The first stop on this tour is at the Beng Mealea temple. Built in the 12th century as a Hindu temple, the temple is partially reclaimed by nature. The remains of courtyards and towers are visible in the thick brush of the dense jungle. The second stop is Koh Ker, which was abandoned in the forests north of Siem Reap. The seven-tiered pyramid is a must-see, along with linga-shrines such as Prasat Thom, Prasat Pram, and Prasat Chrap.

In addition to exploring the temples, this tour offers a glimpse into the daily life of Cambodians. You will make several stops to taste traditional local products, experience village life, and witness the beauty of the Cambodian countryside.

Highlights

The highlights of this tour include:

– Explore the ruins of Beng Mealea temple
– See the remains of the majestic seven-tiered pyramid at Koh Ker
– Marvel at the ruins of sacred sites, including Prasat Thom, Prasat Pram, and Prasat Chrap
– Explore the history and culture of the Khmer Empire
– Taste the traditional local products
– Witness the beauty of the Cambodian countryside in an authentic village

Full Description

The tour starts with a pick-up from your hotel in Siem Reap. You will then depart from Siem Reap and journey through the beautiful countryside to explore the ruins of Beng Mealea temple. Beng Mealea was built in the 12th century as a Hindu temple and is partially reclaimed by nature. The temple is located on the ancient royal highway to Preah Khan Kompong Svay, and remains of the towers and courtyards can be seen in the thick brush of the dense jungle.

After exploring Beng Mealea, you will travel on to Koh Ker, which was abandoned in the forests north of Siem Reap. Some of the linga-shrines have been reclaimed from nature, and you will have the opportunity to marvel at the ruins of sacred sites such as Prasat Thom, Prasat Pram, and Prasat Chrap. Your tour guide will provide fascinating insights into the history and culture of the Khmer Empire throughout the tour.

In addition to exploring the temples, you will make several stops along the way to taste traditional local products, such as rice wine and palm sugar, and experience village life. This is an excellent opportunity to witness the beauty of the Cambodian countryside and learn more about the daily life of Cambodians.

The tour ends with a return to your hotel in Siem Reap.

Booking

To book this tour, click here.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Koh Ker and Beng Mealea Temples Tour from Siem Reap is an excellent way to explore the rich history and culture of the Khmer Empire. This tour provides an excellent opportunity to experience the authentic village lifestyle of Cambodia while escaping the crowds. Don’t hesitate to book this tour to make the most of your time in Siem Reap.

An Insider’s Guide to Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap is a charming city in northwestern Cambodia and the gateway to one of the world’s most stunning ancient sites – the Angkor Archaeological Park. Beyond the ruins, Siem Reap has a vibrant local culture, delicious food, and plenty of attractions to keep visitors busy for several days. Here’s our insider’s guide to Siem Reap:

Local Attractions

While the primary draw of Siem Reap is visiting the nearby ancient temples, the city itself has many attractions worth visiting. Here are some of our top picks:

– Pub Street: This bustling street is the center of nightlife in Siem Reap and is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops. It’s a great place to grab a drink and soak up the lively atmosphere.

– Old Market: Located in the heart of the city, this market is an excellent spot to browse for souvenirs, art, and handicrafts. You can find everything from antique silverware to colorful paintings here.

– Cambodia Landmine Museum and Relief Center: This small museum provides a sobering look at Cambodia’s tragic history with landmines and how one man has made it his mission to help survivors.

– Tonle Sap Lake: Just outside of Siem Reap lies the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. You can book a boat tour to explore the floating villages that line the lake’s shores.

Dining Spots

Siem Reap is known for its street food, but there are plenty of excellent restaurants to choose from as well. Here are a few of our favorites:

– Cuisine Wat Damnak: This Michelin-starred restaurant serves up traditional Khmer dishes with a modern twist. The tasting menu is a must-try.

– Marum: Part of a non-profit culinary school, this restaurant serves up inventive dishes made with local ingredients. The outdoor seating area is a lovely spot to enjoy your meal.

– Khmer Grill: This casual eatery offers delicious barbequed meats and seafood. The prices are very reasonable, and the portions are generous.

Cultural Experiences

Cambodia has a rich cultural heritage, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore it when visiting Siem Reap. Here are a few experiences not to miss:

– Apsara Dance Show: This traditional dance show performed by the Phare Circus is a great way to experience Khmer culture. The show combines music, dance, and storytelling.

– Angkor National Museum: This museum provides an excellent overview of the history and architecture of the ancient temples. The exhibits are informative and well-curated.

– Cambodian Living Arts: This organization works to preserve Cambodia’s traditional arts and music. You can book a performance or workshop to learn more about Khmer culture.

Local History

Cambodia has a complex and often tragic history, and Siem Reap is no exception. Here are a few historical sites worth visiting:

– Killing Fields: The Killing Fields are a stark reminder of the atrocities committed by the Khmer Rouge regime. The site is both haunting and moving.

– War Museum Cambodia: This museum provides a comprehensive overview of Cambodia’s military history. You can even hold weapons from the Vietnam War.

– Preah Ang Chek Preah Ang Chorm Shrine: Located near the Old Market, this shrine is a sacred site for locals and provides insight into Cambodia’s religious traditions.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking to get off the beaten path, here are a few hidden gems worth exploring:

– Banteay Srei Butterfly Center: This small butterfly sanctuary is a lovely spot to relax and learn about Cambodia’s native butterflies.

– Phnom Kulen National Park: This park is home to an impressive waterfall, ancient ruins, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

– The Landmine Museum: Located about an hour outside of Siem Reap, the Landmine Museum is a great place to learn about Cambodia’s history and the ongoing landmine problem.

With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning ancient temples, Siem Reap is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Cambodia. Use this insider’s guide to plan your perfect trip to this gem of a city!