Beng Mealea and Koh Ker -the UNESCO World Heritage

Cambodia’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, Beng Mealea and Koh Ker, offer visitors a captivating journey into the grandeur of the Khmer Empire. Nestled in lush jungles, these remarkable temples showcase the architectural prowess of a bygone era. Beng Mealea’s intricate carvings evoke a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere, while Koh Ker’s iconic Prasat Thom pyramid promises a more tranquil experience. Uncovering the rich cultural heritage and history at these sites promises to be a truly remarkable adventure.

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Key Points

This tour explores two UNESCO World Heritage sites: Beng Mealea and Koh Ker, which are located east and north of Siem Reap, respectively.
Beng Mealea is a temple complex located 55 km east of Angkor Wat, while Koh Ker features the Prasat Thom pyramid and offers a more serene experience.
The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, guided visits to both temple complexes, and provides a less-crowded alternative to the popular Angkor Wat.
Admission fees for the temple passes are not included in the tour price and must be paid directly at the sites.
The tour offers a unique opportunity to visit these two lesser-known but historically significant UNESCO World Heritage sites.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour offers a chance to explore two UNESCO World Heritage sites – Beng Mealea and Koh Ker.

Priced from $50 per person, the 9-10 hour tour includes pickup, transportation, and a guided visit to both temple complexes.

Priced from $50 per person, the 9-10 hour tour includes pickup, transportation, and a guided visit to both temple complexes.

Guests can explore the ruins of Beng Mealea for an hour before continuing to Koh Ker, featuring the iconic 30-meter high Prasat Thom pyramid.

The tour provides a more serene experience compared to the crowds at Angkor Wat.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option are available.

Admission fees are payable on-site.

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Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins with a pickup from Krong Siem Reap, followed by a visit to Beng Mealea Temple, located 55 km east of Angkor Wat. Guests spend about an hour exploring this impressive 12th-century temple.

Then, it’s off to a local restaurant for lunch before proceeding to Koh Ker Temple, located 100 km north of Siem Reap. This former capital of the Khmer Empire features the impressive Prasat Thom, a 30-meter high pyramid temple.

With fewer crowds compared to Angkor Wat, Koh Ker offers a more serene experience for visitors.

Transportation and Services

Ground transportation for the tour is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included for convenience. Bottled water and cold towels are provided to keep you refreshed throughout the day, with 2 bottles and 2 towels per person.

The tour offers English and Japanese-speaking live guides to enhance your experience and provide valuable insights.

| Transportation | Services | Admission |

|—————–|———–|———–|

| Air-conditioned vehicle | Hotel pickup/drop-off | Temple pass: $15 |

| Bottled water & towels | English & Japanese guides | Beng Mealea: $37 |

Admission Fees

While the tour price includes admission to the tour sites, visitors will need to purchase a temple pass and a separate pass for Beng Mealea.

The temple pass costs $15.00 per person, payable on-site. If you have an Angkor Pass, you won’t need to buy the Beng Mealea Pass, which costs $37.00 per person.

These fees aren’t included in the tour price and must be paid directly. Having the proper passes ensures you can fully experience the UNESCO-listed Beng Mealea and Koh Ker temples on this comprehensive day trip.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring Beng Mealea Temple

Beng Mealea Temple lies 55 kilometers east of the famed Angkor Wat, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into the architectural prowess of the Khmer empire. Sprawled across a vast 20-hectare site, the temple’s crumbling stone structures are intertwined with the encroaching jungle, creating a serene and mystical atmosphere. Visitors can explore the labyrinth of corridors, courtyards, and towers, some of which are accessible via wooden walkways. The temple’s intricate carvings and bas-reliefs provide a window into the religious and cultural beliefs of the Khmer people.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Location | 55 km east of Angkor Wat |

| Size | 20-hectare site |

| Architecture | Crumbling stone structures, labyrinth of corridors, courtyards, and towers |

| Accessibility | Some areas accessible via wooden walkways |

| Aesthetics | Mystical atmosphere, intertwined with the jungle |

| Highlights | Intricate carvings and bas-reliefs |

There's plenty more to explore in Siem Reap

Discovering Koh Ker Temple

Located 100 kilometers north of Siem Reap, Koh Ker Temple stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Khmer Empire. This former capital, ruled from 928 to 944 AD, features the 30-meter high Prasat Thom pyramid temple.

Visitors can:

Explore the intricate carvings and architectural wonders of this less-crowded site.
Climb to the top of Prasat Thom for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Discover the ancient water system and other structures that once made Koh Ker a thriving metropolis.

With its unique history and serene atmosphere, Koh Ker offers a captivating alternative to the more famous Angkor Wat.

Comparing to Angkor Wat

Though Koh Ker may lack the fame of Angkor Wat, its serene atmosphere and fewer crowds offer visitors a more immersive experience.

Unlike the bustling Angkor Wat, Koh Ker’s Prasat Thom pyramid stands tall and majestic, allowing you to explore its intricate details without jostling through packed crowds.

While Angkor Wat’s grandeur is undeniable, Koh Ker provides a more peaceful and contemplative journey through Cambodia’s ancient Khmer Empire.

For those seeking a unique and less-crowded adventure, Koh Ker is a hidden gem that complements the renowned splendor of Angkor Wat.

Important Information

Visitors should keep in mind that personal expenses like drinks during meals and camera fees aren’t covered in the tour price.

Pets aren’t allowed on the tours.

For more details on purchasing the temple pass, visitors should visit the official Angkor Enterprise website.

The important information to remember includes:

Personal expenses like drinks and camera fees aren’t included in the tour price.
Pets aren’t allowed on the tours.
To purchase the temple pass, visit the Angkor Enterprise website.

Itineraries may change, so it’s best to check availability for exact starting times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Physical Accessibility Accommodations for the Sites?

The tour doesn’t mention any specific physical accessibility accommodations for the sites. Visitors with mobility challenges may find the temples’ uneven terrain and stairs challenging. It’s best to inquire about accessibility options when booking the tour.

Can I Modify the Tour Itinerary to Include Additional Stops?

Yes, you can modify the tour itinerary to include additional stops. The tour operator offers flexibility, and you can discuss your preferences with them to customize the tour to your liking within the allotted time frame.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit These Sites?

The best time to visit these sites is during the dry season from November to May. Crowds are smaller, the weather is pleasant, and the temples are more accessible compared to the rainy season from June to October.

Are Photography Fees Required at Both Beng Mealea and Koh Ker?

Camera fees aren’t required at either Beng Mealea or Koh Ker. However, visitors must purchase an admission pass to enter the temples, which costs $15 per person and can be paid on-site.

Can I Purchase the Temple Pass Online Before the Tour?

Yes, you can purchase the $15 temple pass online before the tour. However, the Beng Mealea pass must be bought on-site if you don’t have an Angkor Pass.

The Sum Up

Beng Mealea and Koh Ker offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the captivating history and architecture of the Khmer Empire. These UNESCO World Heritage sites provide a more secluded and tranquil experience compared to the iconic Angkor Wat, allowing travelers to enjoy Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage. Whether exploring the jungle-clad ruins of Beng Mealea or the impressive Prasat Thom pyramid at Koh Ker, these temples promise an unforgettable journey through the country’s remarkable past.