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

If you’re planning your trip to the magnificent city of Siem Reap, Cambodia, and want to venture a bit further out to explore the ancient ruins of Beng Mealea and Koh Ker temples, then this is the perfect guide for you. This tour offered by GetYourGuide provides you with a memorable excursion to witness the wonders of the temples’ ruins, experience the beauty of the Cambodian countryside, and have an insight into the history and culture of the Khmer Empire. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to plan your Koh Ker and Beng Mealea Temples Tour in Siem Reap.

Step 1: Choose the Date and Time of Your Tour

Before making your booking, choose the most convenient time for your tour. The tour is available daily at 7:30 am and has an expected duration of about 9 hours. You can select your preferred date on the booking page, and GetYourGuide will confirm your tour via email.

Step 2: Book Your Tour

To book your tour, click on the link provided at the end of this post, which redirects you to the tour’s booking page. Choose the number of tickets you need and indicate any special requests such as hotel pick-up. Then proceed to payment via your preferred payment method.

Step 3: Prepare for Your Tour

Get ready for your adventure by preparing what you need beforehand. These include:

Comfortable Clothing and Footwear

It’s best to wear comfortable clothing and footwear to keep you comfortable throughout the tour. Avoid wearing restrictive clothing that may hinder your movement during the day. Slip-on shoes are also a great choice, as you’ll be taking off your shoes when visiting the temples’ inner sanctums.

Sunscreen or Sun Protection Gear

Since the tour involves significant amounts of travelling and walking, make sure to carry some sunscreen or sun protection gear to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.

Drinking Water

It’s essential to stay hydrated throughout the day. Bring a bottle of water or purchase one from the various stops along the way.

Step 4: Start Your Tour

The tour starts with a comfortable ride through the scenic Cambodian countryside before venturing into the jungle to explore Beng Mealea. You’ll get to see the remains of the majestic seven-tiered pyramid, the towers and courtyards hidden by dense jungle, and the unique linga-shrines. From there, you will proceed to Koh Ker, which is approximately 120 km and takes around two hours from Siem Reap. Koh Ker is a relatively remote temple complex in northern Cambodia, and it’s less crowded than its nearby counterpart, Angkor Wat. You’ll make a few stops along the way to try out some local traditional products, such as rice noodles and palm sugar. You’ll also get to witness the beauty of the Cambodian countryside in an authentic village and get fascinating insights into the history and culture of the Khmer Empire.

Step 5: End of the Tour

The tour ends with a drop-off at your hotel in Siem Reap at around 4:30 pm. You’ll leave many souvenirs in your camera’s memory as you take in the sights, sounds, and beauty Cambodia has to offer. In conclusion, your Koh Ker and Beng Mealea Temples Tour in Siem Reap promises to be an exciting and educational journey. Follow these step-by-step guidelines to help you plan and organize your tour with ease. Book the tour here and enjoy your adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions About Siem Reap

Siem Reap is a province in the northwestern part of Cambodia. It is the gateway to the Angkor temples, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. Whether you are planning to visit Siem Reap for the first time, or you are returning to explore more of the area, this FAQ guide will provide you with important information to help you prepare for your trip.

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

The best time to visit Siem Reap is from November to February because the weather is cool and dry, making it ideal for exploring the temples. The temperature during this time ranges from 20°C to 28°C. March to May is the hottest period in Siem Reap with temperatures ranging from 30°C to 40°C. From May to October, it is the rainy season in Siem Reap, and some temples may be flooded, which could affect your travel plans.

2. How can I get to Siem Reap?

You can reach Siem Reap by plane or by bus. Siem Reap International airport is the second-largest airport in Cambodia, and it has connections to various international and domestic destinations. If you are coming from Phnom Penh, you can take a bus that takes around 6-7 hours to reach Siem Reap.

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

The Angkor temples are the main attraction in Siem Reap. Some of the must-visit temples include Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm, Banteay Srei, and Preah Khan. These temples are known for their intricate carvings, stunning architecture, and rich history. It is recommended to spend at least three days in Siem Reap to explore the temples fully.

4. What is the dress code for visiting temples in Siem Reap?

Visitors to the temples in Siem Reap are expected to dress modestly. Men should wear shirts that cover their shoulders, and pants or knee-length shorts. Women should avoid wearing clothes that expose their shoulders, midriff, or knees. It is also recommended to wear shoes that are comfortable for walking, as you will be exploring the temples on foot.

5. What are the other attractions in Siem Reap?

Apart from the Angkor temples, Siem Reap has other attractions that are worth exploring. These include:

• The Cambodian Landmine Museum and Relief Center
• The Tonle Sap Lake
• The Artisans Angkor
• The Phare, the Cambodian Circus
• The Angkor Night Market

6. What is the currency used in Siem Reap?

The official currency in Cambodia is the Cambodian Riel, but the US dollar is widely used in Siem Reap. Most businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and tourist attractions, accept US dollars, and it is sometimes preferred over the Cambodian Riel. It is advisable to carry small denominations of both currencies to make it easier for transactions.

7. What is the food like in Siem Reap?

The food in Siem Reap is a reflection of the country’s history and culture. Some of the popular Cambodian dishes that you should try include amok (a steamed fish curry), lok lak (stir-fried beef with a lime and pepper dipping sauce), and kuy teav (a noodle soup). You can also find international cuisine, such as Italian, French, and Indian, in Siem Reap.

8. What is the nightlife like in Siem Reap?

Siem Reap has a vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars and nightclubs catering to tourists and locals alike. Pub Street is the main area for nightlife in Siem Reap, and it has a range of options, from rooftop bars to nightclubs. Some of the popular bars include Angkor What? Bar, Miss Wong Cocktail Bar, and Temple Bar.

9. Is it safe to travel to Siem Reap?

Siem Reap is a relatively safe destination, and the crime rate is low. However, like any other tourist destination, visitors should exercise caution and take appropriate safety measures. It is recommended to keep your valuables, such as passports and money, in a safe place and avoid walking alone late at night.

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

When packing for your trip to Siem Reap, it is essential to consider the weather and cultural norms. You should pack lightweight and breathable clothing for the hot and humid weather. It is also recommended to bring comfortable shoes for walking around the temples. Additionally, you should bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Siem Reap

Siem Reap, a city rich in culture and history, located in the northwestern part of Cambodia, is famous for its breathtaking temple complexes, stunning natural scenery, and unique culture. Siem Reap is home to the world-renowned Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, which attracts millions of visitors every year. If you are planning a trip to Siem Reap as a tourist and wondering how to spend your time in the city, we have compiled a list of must-visit places and activities to make your Siem Reap experience unforgettable.

1. Visit the Angkor Archaeological Park

A visit to the Angkor Archaeological Park should be on top of your list when visiting Siem Reap. The park is home to over 1,000 temple ruins and is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. It is best to buy a three-day pass to the park, which costs $62, to have ample time to explore the different temple sites.

2. Explore the Temples

Within the Angkor Archaeological Park, you will find many temples to visit, including Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Srei. Angkor Wat is the most famous and largest temple, known for its intricate carvings and stunning beauty. Bayon Temple is known for its giant stone faces carved into the walls, which are a must-see. Ta Prohm has been left unaltered and is famous for its tree roots that have grown into the temple walls. Banteay Srei is smaller than the others but has magnificent carvings on pink sandstone.

3. Take a Cooking Class

Siem Reap is famous for its mouth-watering cuisine, and a great way to experience the local food is to take a cooking class. Several cooking schools offer classes where you can learn how to cook traditional Cambodian dishes. One of the famous cooking schools is the Avenue Jea restaurant, which also serves delicious food.

4. Visit the Tonle Sap Lake

Tonle Sap Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and is a must-visit spot when visiting Siem Reap. The lake is home to several floating villages, and you can take a boat tour to explore the unique way of life of the locals.

5. Explore the Countryside on a Bicycle

Exploring the beautiful countryside of Siem Reap on a bicycle will allow you to take in the natural beauty of the area. Bicycle tours are available for rent in many places, and you can explore the rice fields, local villages, and see the daily life of locals.

6. Visit the Night Market

The night market is a perfect place to get souvenirs and try out the street food in Siem Reap. The market is bustling with life at night, and you can find handicrafts, clothing, and local Cambodian delicacies.

7. Watch Traditional Apsara Dancing

Apsara dancing is a traditional Cambodian dance that dates back to the Angkor period. It is named after the celestial dancers carved into the temple walls. Several restaurants in Siem Reap offer Apsara dance performances along with dinner.

8. Visit the Artisans Angkor

Artisans Angkor is a social business that helps preserve Cambodian traditional crafts by creating job opportunities for local artisans. You can visit their workshops, see the production process, and purchase exquisite handicrafts as souvenirs.

9. Experience the Cambodian Circus

The Cambodian circus, Phare, is a contemporary circus that tells Cambodian stories through acrobatics, theater, and dance. The show is entertaining, and the organization also runs a school to prepare young performers.

10. Take a Day Trip to Phnom Kulen National Park

Phnom Kulen National Park is located 50 kilometers north of Siem Reap and is a beautiful spot to visit if you have a full day to spare. The park is home to a giant reclining Buddha statue, a beautiful waterfall, and the Thousand Lingas river.

Final Thoughts

Siem Reap is a vibrant city that has a lot to offer to tourists. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or local culture, there is something for everyone in Siem Reap. These are just a few suggestions to help you have a memorable experience in Siem Reap, and we hope that this guide will assist you in planning your trip to this beautiful city.