How to Plan Your Siem Reap Full Day Banteay Srei and Beng Mealea Tour

Are you planning on visiting the beautiful city of Siem Reap and exploring its hidden gems? Then you must not miss the Siem Reap Full Day Banteay Srei and Beng Mealea Tour. This tour is operated by SARUS Co. Ltd and offers an exhilarating experience for travelers to explore the historic temples and scenic landscape of the city. In this blog post, we will learn how to plan the tour effectively, so you can make the most of your trip.

Overview of the Tour

The Siem Reap Full Day Banteay Srei and Beng Mealea Tour is an 8-hour tour that will take you to two remarkable temple complexes, Banteay Srei and Beng Mealea, which are situated in Siem Reap. The tour follows a carefully curated route to help you explore these stunning temples without missing any important spots.

What’s Included in the Tour

The Banteay Srei and Beng Mealea tour provide a comfortable and air-conditioned vehicle. From the pickup point to your return into the city, you will have the service of an experienced English-speaking guide throughout the day to give you a comprehensive understanding of the temples’ history, architecture, and culture. You will receive a water bottle during the tour to stay hydrated. The Angkor temple pass for Banteay Srey and Beng Mealea entrance fees is also included in the tour package. On top of the entry fees, there are no other hidden costs to worry about.

The tour also provides extra transfer services, including a return to the city dinner transfer, and other services that you can book along the tour schedule.

Meeting and Pickup Information

The tour provides pickup services from multiple points in Siem Reap, including hotels and other tourist attractions. You can choose a convenient pickup point that best suits you. The tour starts at 8:00 AM and ends at 4:00 PM. The starting time is convenient enough so you can get plenty of rest and start fresh for the day.

What to Expect During the Tour

When you arrive at your first stop in Banteay Srei, you will be greeted by stunning pink sandstone sculptures and intricate carvings featuring Hindu and Buddhist depictions. The temple is known for the “jewel of Khmer art,” with thousands of visitors flocking to see its beauty.

Afterward, the Beng Mealea Temple is a short distance away, which takes about an hour or so. Beng Mealea is a giant Angkor-era temple built by King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century. The temple complex is situated inside the jungle, and you will experience a bit of hike to get there. The temple is widely known for its strangler fig trees which grow straight out of the ruins.

On the way back to Siem Reap, you will visit a traditional Khmer village, where you will experience local village life and indulge in traditional Khmer food, where you will have a chance to rest and recharge before the tour ends.

Additional Information

Confirmation of your tour booking will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and it is recommended for most travelers. Since this is a private tour, you will have exclusive access to the guide throughout the day, and other people will not be allowed to join the tour. In case of any emergency or last-minute cancellation, you can cancel your booking up to 24 hours before the tour’s start time and receive a full refund.

Conclusion

The Siem Reap Full Day Banteay Srei and Beng Mealea Tour is a must-do experience for anyone visiting Siem Reap. The tour’s itinerary is adequately tailored to give visitors a comprehensive understanding of the temples’ history and culture behind Banteay Srey and Beng Mealea. The guided tour with an experienced tour guide and a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, along with the added benefit of Khmer culture experience, make this an ideal tour opportunity for every traveler. Book the tour here and make your trip memorable.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Siem Reap

Siem Reap is a city located in northwestern Cambodia, known for its ancient temples, rich history, and vibrant culture. As a popular tourist destination, it’s common for travelers to have several questions about the city, its attractions, and what to expect during their visit. In this blog post, we’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about Siem Reap to help you plan your trip.

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. This is when you’ll experience the most comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and clear skies, making it the perfect time to explore the temples and other attractions. May to October is considered the wet season, and while it can still be an enjoyable time to visit, you should expect occasional rainfall and higher humidity levels.

2. What is the dress code for visiting Siem Reap’s temples?

As Siem Reap is home to many ancient temples, it’s important to dress appropriately during your visit. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees, and avoid wearing hats or shoes inside the temples. While there isn’t a strict dress code, it’s important to respect the cultural and religious significance of these sites by dressing appropriately.

3. What are some must-visit attractions in Siem Reap?

Siem Reap is home to several world-renowned attractions, with the most popular being the Angkor Wat temple complex. Other must-visit sites include the Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Srei. You can also explore the Old Market, take a boat ride on the Tonle Sap Lake or visit the Angkor Silk Farm to learn about traditional silk production.

4. Is it safe to visit Siem Reap?

Siem Reap is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any city, it’s important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, particularly when walking around at night. Petty theft can occur in busy tourist areas, so it’s important to keep valuables like phones and wallets secure.

5. What is the currency used in Siem Reap, and can I use US dollars?

The official currency of Cambodia is the Cambodian Riel, but US dollars are widely accepted throughout Siem Reap, particularly in tourist areas. You can also withdraw cash from ATMs throughout the city, but it’s important to note that some machines charge high fees for withdrawals.

6. What is the food like in Siem Reap?

Cambodian cuisine is known for its bold flavors, with dishes like amok curry, beef lok lak, and fish amok being popular choices in Siem Reap. Additionally, there are many international dining options available in the city, including Italian, French, and Japanese cuisine.

7. What is transportation like in Siem Reap?

In Siem Reap, the most common mode of transportation is by tuk-tuk, which are affordable and convenient for short trips around the city. You can also rent bicycles, scooters, or hire a car and driver for long-distance travel. It’s important to negotiate costs ahead of time and agree upon a price before beginning your journey.

8. Do I need a visa to enter Siem Reap?

Visitors to Cambodia require a visa, which can be obtained upon arrival at the airport or overland border crossings. You will need to bring a passport-sized photo and pay a fee in USD. Alternatively, you can apply for an e-visa online ahead of time for convenience.

9. Are there any cultural customs I should be aware of in Siem Reap?

As with any destination, it’s important to be respectful of the local culture and customs. In Siem Reap, it’s common to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or certain businesses. Additionally, it’s considered disrespectful to touch someone’s head, pointing with your feet or stepping over someone’s feet or belongings.

10. What is the language spoken in Siem Reap?

Khmer is the official language in Cambodia, although many locals in Siem Reap also speak English, particularly in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Khmer phrases, such as greeting locals or ordering food, can be a great way to show respect for the local culture and enhance your experience during your trip.

Final Thoughts

Siem Reap is a fascinating destination, rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. By knowing the answers to these frequently asked questions, you can better plan your trip and ensure that you have an enjoyable and memorable experience exploring this unique city. Remember to respect the culture and customs of the locals, stay safe, and enjoy all that Siem Reap has to offer.