How to Plan Your Koh Ker & Beng Mealea Tour in Siem Reap
When traveling to Siem Reap, Cambodia, it is almost mandatory to visit the ancient Angkor ruins. While the main sites are impressive and awe-inspiring, they can also be overcrowded with tourists. If you’re looking for a more unique and peaceful experience, we highly recommend visiting two of Angkor’s lesser-known gems: Koh Ker and Beng Mealea. In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan your Koh Ker & Beng Mealea tour, step by step.
Overview of the Tour
This day trip takes you to the 10th-century city of Koh Ker, situated about 120km northeast of Siem Reap. The site was the capital of the Khmer Empire for about twenty years and is home to numerous temples, including Prasat Thom, a tall pyramid-like temple.
After exploring Koh Ker, you’ll head to Beng Mealea, a temple that’s often compared to the famous Angkor Wat because of its similar layout and intricate carvings. It’s said that Beng Mealea served as a model for Angkor Wat’s construction.
The tour includes a private guide who will provide you with insightful information about the history and architecture of both sites. Round-trip hotel transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle are included as well. Please note that lunch and entrance fees are not covered by the tour and will be at your own expense.
Booking Your Tour
To book your Koh Ker & Beng Mealea tour, you can use the following link: book the tour here. We recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred date, especially if you’re traveling during the high season (December – February).
Tour Itinerary
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to expect during your Koh Ker & Beng Mealea tour:
8:00 AM – Hotel Pickup
Your driver and private guide will pick you up from your hotel in Siem Reap. Please be ready at the hotel lobby at least ten minutes before the scheduled pickup time.
10:00 AM – Arrival at Koh Ker
After a two-hour drive, you’ll arrive at Koh Ker, where you’ll explore the ancient ruins. The site is spread over a vast area, so you’ll need to climb several steps to reach some of the temples. Your guide will adjust the pace of the tour to suit your needs and interests, and will happily answer any questions you might have.
12:00 PM – Lunch Break
After exploring Koh Ker, you’ll make a stop for lunch. There are several local restaurants in the area where you can try traditional Cambodian dishes such as amok and lok lak.
1:00 PM – Arrival at Beng Mealea
After lunch, you’ll head to your second destination, Beng Mealea. Unlike Angkor Wat, Beng Mealea is largely unrestored, and nature has taken its course, with trees and vines engulfing parts of the temple. You’ll have plenty of time to explore this atmospheric site and take some epic photos.
3:00 PM – Return to Siem Reap
After a full day of exploring, you’ll be driven back to your hotel in Siem Reap, where you can relax and reflect on the experience.
What’s Included in the Tour
- English speaking guide
- Refreshment drink & cold towel
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Koh Ker entrance fee: $10/person
- Beng Mealea entrance fee: $5/person
Additional Options
If you have some extra time and energy, you might want to consider adding some entertainment to your day. The tour operator offers the following additional options at an extra cost:
- Cambodian Circus show in the evening
- Traditional Apsara dance show at a local restaurant
- Dinner at a local restaurant
Tips for Your Tour
To make the most of your Koh Ker & Beng Mealea tour, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as you’ll be doing some walking and climbing.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as it can get hot and sunny.
- Bring a refillable water bottle, as it can get quite dry and dusty.
- Bring cash for lunch, snacks, and souvenirs, as not all places accept credit cards.
- Respect the local culture and customs. Dress modestly, remove your shoes before entering temples, and refrain from touching or climbing on the ruins.
Conclusion
Visiting Koh Ker & Beng Mealea can be a fantastic way to experience the ancient wonders of Angkor without the crowds. With this guide, you should now know how to plan your Koh Ker & Beng Mealea tour and what to expect during your adventure. Don’t forget to book in advance, pack accordingly, and respect the local culture. Enjoy your trip and have a great time exploring!
The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Siem Reap
Siem Reap, the gateway to the stunning heritage site of Angkor Wat, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Cambodia. Visitors flock to this charming city to explore ancient temples, taste delicious food, enjoy the nightlife, and learn more about the Khmer culture. If you’re planning a trip to Siem Reap, you might have some questions in your mind. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Siem Reap.
1. What Language Do People Speak in Siem Reap?
The official language of Cambodia is Khmer, and Siem Reap is no exception. Most locals in Siem Reap speak Khmer, but you’ll find that many people in the tourism industry, such as hotel staff and tour guides, also speak English. You can get around the city easily if you know some basic English phrases. It’s also a good idea to learn some common Khmer phrases such as ‘Arkun’ (thank you) or ‘Sues’day’ (hello) to show respect to the local culture.
2. When is the Best Time to Visit Siem Reap?
Siem Reap has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons – the wet season from May to October and the dry season from November to April. The best time to visit Siem Reap is during the dry season when the weather is sunny and humidity is lower. You can expect temperatures around 28°C during the day and cooler at night. However, keep in mind that this is the peak tourist season, so the prices of accommodation and tours will be higher. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (April-May or September-November).
3. Do I Need a Visa to Enter Cambodia?
Yes, foreign visitors need a visa to enter Cambodia, including Siem Reap. Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival at the Siem Reap or Phnom Penh airport or the international border checkpoints. It’s a good idea to check the latest visa requirements and regulations before your trip to avoid any hassle.
4. How Do I Get to Siem Reap?
Siem Reap has a busy international airport with flights from major cities in Southeast Asia, China, Korea, and the Middle East. You can also take a bus or taxi from the capital city of Phnom Penh, which is around six hours away. Some travelers also choose to take a scenic boat ride from Battambang to Siem Reap along the Tonle Sap river, which takes around six hours.
5. What are the Accommodation Options in Siem Reap?
Siem Reap offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. You can find everything from luxurious five-star hotels to backpacker hostels and guesthouses. The most popular areas to stay in Siem Reap are around Pub Street and the Old French Quarter, which are close to the Angkor Wat temples and the Night Market.
6. What are the Must-See Attractions in Siem Reap?
The main attraction of Siem Reap is, of course, the Angkor Wat temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site visited by millions of tourists every year. You should also visit other temples such as Bayon, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Srei to see different architectural styles and learn more about Khmer history. The Angkor Archaeological Park also includes some other less popular temples, which are worth exploring. Other must-see attractions in Siem Reap include the Tonle Sap lake, the Angkor Center for Conservation and Biodiversity, the Angkor Night Market, and the Cambodian Cultural Village.
7. What Should I Eat in Siem Reap?
Siem Reap has an excellent food scene, with plenty of choices for both carnivores and vegetarians. You should try some of the local Khmer dishes such as amok (steamed fish in banana leaf), lok lak (marinated beef with rice and fresh vegetables), or bai sach chrouk (grilled pork with rice and pickled vegetables). You’ll also find international cuisine such as Thai, Vietnamese, and Western-style restaurants in Siem Reap. Some popular restaurants and food markets in Siem Reap include the Night Market, Pub Street, and the Phsar Chas Old Market.
8. Is Siem Reap Safe?
Siem Reap is generally a safe city to visit, with a low crime rate. However, like in any other tourist destination, there are scams and petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, or overcharging. It’s a good idea to keep your belongings safe, avoid flashing expensive items, and use common sense precautions. Furthermore, you should be respectful of local customs and traditions, and dress modestly when visiting temples.
9. What Should I Pack for Siem Reap?
What you pack for Siem Reap will depend on the season you’re visiting. If you’re coming during the dry season (November to April), you should bring lightweight clothes, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, and sunscreen. During the rainy season (May to October), you should bring a light rain jacket or umbrella, waterproof shoes or sandals, and mosquito repellent. Make sure to also pack a travel adapter, a refillable water bottle, and any prescription medication you may need.
Conclusion
Siem Reap is a fascinating city with a rich cultural heritage, delicious food, and friendly people. We hope we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions about Siem Reap and provided you with useful information for your trip. Remember to plan ahead, stay safe, and enjoy your adventure in Siem Reap!
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