Koh Ker & Beng Mealea
In Brief
Discover the hidden treasures of Cambodia on this full-day tour to Koh Ker and Beng Mealea Temple. Travel 120 km from Siem Reap to Koh Ker, the 10th-century jungle capital of the Khmer Empire, exploring its remote temples and the striking Pyramid Temple (Prasat Thom). Enjoy a coffee break amidst the ancient ruins before heading back, stopping for lunch and a visit to Beng Mealea, a sprawling 12th-century temple overgrown by jungle, offering an adventurous glimpse of Cambodia’s history. Return to Siem Reap in the late afternoon after a day of exploration and discovery.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 – Koh Ker & Beng Mealea Temple Exploration
Your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel at about 6:30 am and drive 120 km from Siem Reap to Koh Ker, one of Cambodia’s most remote and lesser-known archaeological sites. Koh Ker was the capital of the Khmer Empire in the 10th century and is home to over 180 temples hidden in the dense jungle, giving visitors a sense of discovery and adventure.
Explore the ancient ruins, from small, mysterious temples scattered through the forest to the most famous and striking structure, Prasat Thom (the Pyramid Temple), a seven-tiered sandstone pyramid that towers over the surrounding jungle. Enjoy a coffee break at one of the lost temples before continuing your exploration of this historical site.
On the way back to Siem Reap, stop for lunch and visit Beng Mealea Temple, located about 40 km from the city. Built in the 12th century during the reign of King Suryavarman II, Beng Mealea is a massive temple complex largely unrestored, with huge stone blocks covered by thick jungle roots and vines, creating an enchanting, adventurous atmosphere. Walking through its overgrown corridors, bridges, and galleries, visitors can see firsthand how nature has reclaimed the temple, giving a glimpse of how Angkor Wat might have appeared centuries ago.
After exploring Beng Mealea, return to Siem Reap in the late afternoon, completing a full day of discovering Cambodia’s hidden historical treasures.
Inclusions
- English-speaking guide
- Private vehicle
- Snacks & drinks
- Lunch
- All entrance fees
Exclusions
Practical Information
PAYMENT AND DEPOSIT:
A 20% deposit is required to confirm the booking. The remaining balance must be settled 45 days before the departure date.
CANCELLATION:
As a rule, unless otherwise stated, our policy is that all cancellations must be informed in writing or by email. Cancellations will be subject to the following charges:
- More than 45 days before trip departure. No charge
- 30-45 days before arrival: 30% charge
- 15-29 days before arrival: 50% charge
- 8-14 days before arrival: 80% charge
- Within 7 days before arrival: 100% charge
HOTEL POLICY:
Check-in time: 14:00
Check-out time: 12:00
LIABILITY AND PERSONAL HEALTH INSURANCE:
Cambodia Adventure Tours does not provide personal liability insurance for guests during the trip. We strongly recommend that each guest has appropriate personal travel and health insurance for traveling in Cambodia, including coverage for activities such as cycling, trekking, kayaking, and all tour activities. Please note that in Cambodia, emergency services and modern medical facilities may be limited in some areas. A support vehicle will be provided in case of emergencies.
VISA TO CAMBODIA:
Most nationalities are eligible for a one-month visa on arrival at Phnom Penh International Airport, Siem Reap International Airport, and at all land borders with neighboring countries. The cost is USD 30 for a tourist visa and USD 35 for a business visa. Payment must be made in cash (US dollars). Please note that there may be long queues at the airport for visa on arrival; however, they generally move fairly quickly, and the process usually takes around 30–45 minutes.
CLOTHING:
As Cambodia’s weather is consistently warm throughout the country, we recommend bringing comfortable, lightweight, loose-fitting cotton clothing. Long-sleeved items are also advisable to protect against mosquitoes and the sun. During the rainy season, open-toe sandals are recommended. A hat and high-SPF sunblock are essential for protection from the strong sun while sightseeing.
T-shirts and knee-length shorts are generally acceptable when visiting temples or pagodas, including Angkor Wat. Shoes are usually removed at the entrance to pagodas. However, for visits to the Silver Pagoda within the Royal Palace grounds, visitors are advised to wear long trousers or long skirts.
At the Angkor Wat complex, you will be on your feet and walking extensively, sometimes over rough or slippery surfaces, so please choose your footwear carefully. Shoes with good traction are highly recommended.
TIPPING:
Tipping is not compulsory but is appreciated in the tourism industry. If you are happy with the service, we suggest the following guidelines:
- Groups under 4 people: USD 5–10 per day per traveler for guides, USD 5–7 for drivers
- Groups of 5 or more: USD 3–7 per day per traveler for guides, USD 2–5 for drivers
Pricing
| Group size | Tour cost |
|---|---|
| 1 person | USD 263 |
| 2 people | USD 156 |
| 3-5 people | USD 125 |
| 6-9 people | USD 113 |