Cambodia’s ancient Khmer heritage and natural wonders come alive in the captivating destinations of Koh Ker, Beng Mealea, and the Floating Village of Kompong Kleang. From the towering Prasat Thom pyramid to the overgrown temple ruins, these sites offer a glimpse into the country’s rich past. And the floating community on Tonle Sap Lake provides a unique cultural experience, showcasing the adaptability of the local people. Exploring these three destinations promises an unforgettable journey through Cambodia’s diverse landscapes and traditions.

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Key Points

The tour explores three destinations: Beng Mealea, Koh Ker, and Kompong Kleang, a floating village on Tonle Sap Lake.
The itinerary includes guided tours of the temples and the floating village, covering significant distances between the sites.
The tour is priced at $60 per person and includes hotel pickup, transportation, guide, and entrance fees.
Travelers praise the professionalism and historical knowledge of the guide, Rum Dara, and the opportunity to explore less crowded temples.
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to uneven terrain and stairs, and proper attire is required.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This tour offers visitors a chance to explore three remarkable destinations in the Siem Reap region – Beng Mealea, Koh Ker, and the Kompong Kleang Floating Village.

Priced at $60 per person, the one-day tour includes hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, air-conditioned transportation, and entrance fees. Travelers can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

Priced at $60 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, guide, transport, and fees, with a full refund available up to 24 hours in advance.

The itinerary covers the 70 km Beng Mealea temple, the 50 km Koh Ker site, and a guided tour of the Tonle Sap Lake’s largest floating community.

With a 5/5 rating, this off-the-beaten-path experience is a must-do for visitors to Siem Reap.

Looking for more options in Kaoh Ker? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins with pickup from the designated location in Krong Siem Reap, Street 08.

The first stop is Beng Mealea, a remote and untouched temple located 70 km from Siem Reap. After a 2-hour guided tour, the group heads to Koh Ker, 50 km from Beng Mealea.

Here, they explore the impressive Prasat Thom, the largest pyramid temple, accompanied by a guided tour and lunch.

The final stop is Kompong Kleang, the largest floating community on Tonle Sap Lake, where visitors experience a 2-hour guided tour and witness the sunset.

Throughout the day, travelers enjoy the services of a local licensed English-speaking guide.

Inclusions

The tour package includes pickup and drop-off from the hotel, as well as transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

A local licensed English-speaking guide accompanies visitors, providing insights and historical context.

Mineral water is provided throughout the day. Meals are included, allowing travelers to savor authentic Khmer cuisine.

Entrance fees to the key sites, such as Beng Mealea, Koh Ker, and Kompong Kleang, are covered in the package.

This comprehensive offering ensures a seamless and enriching exploration of the ancient temples and floating village, without the hassle of additional out-of-pocket expenses.

Customer Reviews

Travelers who’ve experienced the tour have overwhelmingly praised it, with an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars based on 3 reviews.

The feedback highlights:

Elsa Isabel Guardia from Spain praised the professionalism and historical knowledge of the guide, Rum Dara.
Carlos from the United States appreciated the insights provided on temple extraction.
Timothy from Canada recommended the tour as a must-do in Siem Reap, noting it’s less crowded than Angkor Wat.
Reviewers emphasized the tour’s ability to explore untouched temples and experience the sunset at Kompong Kleang.

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Important Information

Proper attire is required for visitors when exploring the sacred sites on this tour. This includes covering shoulders and knees. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the uneven terrain and stairs at the temples. However, the tour operates in all seasons, rain or shine.

| Dress Code | Accessibility | Availability |

| — | — | — |

| Proper attire required | Not suitable for wheelchairs | Operates in all seasons |

| Cover shoulders and knees | Uneven terrain and stairs | Confirm start times before booking |

Before booking, check the availability and confirm the starting times. This tour provides an opportunity to discover the lesser-known Koh Ker and Beng Mealea temples, as well as experience the unique Kompong Kleang floating village.

There's plenty more to explore in Kaoh Ker

Exploring Beng Mealea

Nestled 70 kilometers from Siem Reap, Beng Mealea offers a captivating exploration of an untouched temple complex shrouded in jungle foliage.

Visitors can:

Wander through the crumbling stone corridors, marveling at the intricate carvings and sculptures.
Climb over fallen masonry and navigate through collapsed passageways, feeling a sense of adventure.
Witness the gradual reclamation of the temple by nature, with trees and vines intertwining with the ancient architecture.
Immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere, away from the crowds of Angkor Wat.

This less-visited site provides a rare glimpse into Cambodia’s past, allowing travelers to step back in time and experience the wonder of a truly untamed temple.

Discovering Koh Ker Temple

The Koh Ker temple complex lies 50 kilometers from the awe-inspiring Beng Mealea, a journey that transports visitors to a lesser-known, yet equally captivating, chapter of Cambodia’s rich history.

Once the capital of the Khmer Empire in the 10th century, Koh Ker’s centerpiece is the towering Prasat Thom, a step pyramid temple rising 30 meters high.

A towering step pyramid, Prasat Thom stands as the centerpiece of the 10th-century Koh Ker, once the capital of the Khmer Empire.

Guided tours explore the intricate carvings and architectural wonders that defined this ancient site.

Travelers can explore the enigmatic structures scattered across the lush landscape, uncovering the stories that shaped this forgotten kingdom before continuing on to the serene Kompong Kleang floating village.

Floating on Kompong Kleang

After exploring the ancient Koh Ker temple complex, the tour continues to the serene Kompong Kleang floating village on the Tonle Sap Lake.

Visitors glide through the village’s maze of stilted houses, shops, and schools that rise and fall with the lake’s seasonal water levels.

The experience offers:

A glimpse into the local life and livelihood of the floating community.
Opportunities to interact with friendly residents and learn about their unique way of living.
Stunning views of the vast lake and surrounding landscape.
A peaceful respite from the crowds at Angkor Wat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the tour overview, guests can bring their own food and drinks, but mineral water is provided. The tour includes pickup, guides, transportation, and entrance fees, so guests don’t need to worry about additional costs.

Is There a Dress Code for the Boat Ride in the Floating Village?

The tour itinerary states that proper attire is required for the sacred sites, but there’s no specific dress code mentioned for the boat ride in the floating village. Comfortable, modest clothing would be appropriate for the boat tour.

How Long Is the Driving Time Between the Different Sites?

The driving time between the different sites is approximately 1.5 hours from Beng Mealea to Koh Ker, and 1 hour from Koh Ker to the Kompong Kleang Floating Village. Travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions.

Are There Any Opportunities for Purchasing Souvenirs During the Tour?

There are opportunities to purchase souvenirs during the tour, as it includes stops at local villages and communities. Visitors can explore local markets and shops to find unique handicrafts and mementos to bring back from their experience.

Can I Extend the Tour to Include Additional Activities or Sites?

Yes, you can typically extend the tour to include additional activities or sites. The tour operator may offer customized packages or allow you to add on extra stops for an additional fee. It’s best to inquire about personalization options when booking.

The Sum Up

Koh Ker, Beng Mealea, and the Floating Village of Kompong Kleang offer an immersive cultural experience in Cambodia. Visitors can explore ancient Khmer architecture, discover hidden temple ruins, and witness the unique lifestyle on Tonle Sap Lake. This captivating journey showcases the country’s rich heritage and natural beauty, leaving a lasting impression on all who embark on this unforgettable adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: