Preah Vihear & Beng Mealea Private Tour

If you’re looking to step off the typical tourist trail around Siem Reap and explore some of Cambodia’s less-visited but truly fascinating temples, this private tour offers a fantastic way to do so. It combines a visit to the UNESCO-listed Preah Vihear, along with the adventurous ruins of Beng Mealea and the pyramidal Koh Ker. This kind of experience is perfect if you’re eager to see Cambodia’s archaeological sites with fewer crowds and more authentic, untouched atmospheres.

One of the biggest perks of this tour is its private, guided approach, giving you the flexibility to explore at your own pace and ask questions along the way. Plus, the included lunch and air-conditioned transportation make it comfortable despite the long day. However, be mindful that this tour involves quite a bit of driving—around three hours to the first stop—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full-day adventure.

This experience is ideal for travelers who crave a more intimate, less commercialized view of Cambodia’s temples, especially if you’re passionate about history, archaeology, or just want a change from the usual Angkor Wat crowds. It can be a perfect add-on if you’ve already explored Angkor or are seeking a deeper, more personal connection with the country’s ancient sites.

Key Points

• Unique Temples: Tour highlights include Preah Vihear, a UNESCO site with stunning valley views, and the jungle-covered Beng Mealea, offering a truly adventurous feel.
• Private Experience: Only your group participates, providing flexibility and personalized attention from your guide.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned private car, included lunch, and bottled water ensure a smooth day.
• Remote Locations: Visiting sites that are off the beaten path means fewer crowds and more authentic exploration.
• Timing & Duration: The full day runs approximately 12 hours, starting early at 6 am, perfect for maximizing your experience.
• Value for Cost: At $355 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive, tailored adventure with all major tickets included.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary and Experiences

Starting early with Preah Vihear

Your day kicks off with a 6:00 am hotel pickup, or later if you prefer. The early start is well worth it to beat the crowds and enjoy the cool morning air as you head northward. After a roughly three-hour drive through scenic Cambodian countryside, you arrive at Preah Vihear, perched atop a cliff with commanding views of the surrounding valley.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is a true masterpiece of Khmer architecture, with its long staircase leading up to the central sanctuary. The temple’s remote location means it’s often empty—meaning you’ll likely be walking through the complex largely on your own, an experience many reviewers cite as a highlight. One guest noted, “The views from the top are breathtaking, and it felt like our own secret discovery.” The well-preserved structures and the tranquility of the site make this a standout stop.

Exploring Beng Mealea: Jungle Ruins with a Lost-Temple Vibe

After about two hours at Preah Vihear, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant—an important chance to fuel up before the afternoon’s adventures. Then it’s time for Beng Mealea, often described as a “lost temple” because of its jungle overgrowth and sprawling layout.

Covering over a kilometer, Beng Mealea feels like stepping into Indiana Jones territory. Stones are piled high, towers peek through the greenery, and the overgrown pathways invite exploration. Several reviews mention it as an adventurous site: “It’s not overly restored, so you get a real sense of discovery as you climb over the ruins and imagine what it was like in its prime.” Its remote location means fewer visitors, giving you space to wander at your own pace and soak in the wild, untouched atmosphere.

The Climb to Koh Ker

The last stop is Koh Ker, a lesser-known site with a distinctive pyramidal shape, unlike the usual Angkor temples. The climb up its steps rewards you with panoramic views of the surrounding jungle—an ideal spot for photos and reflection. The site is often overlooked, making it a special find, especially for those interested in more obscure Khmer architecture.

Returning to Siem Reap

After exploring Koh Ker, your guide will transfer you back to your hotel, ending your day around sunset. The approximately 12-hour itinerary is packed but well-paced, with plenty of time at each site to absorb the atmosphere and take photos.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Beyond the itinerary, many reviewers highlight the thoughtful logistics. The air-conditioned vehicle keeps you comfortable during long drives, and bottled water is provided to keep you hydrated. The English-speaking guide is often praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, making the experience both educational and engaging.

Guests also appreciate the flexibility of this private tour—if you want more time at a certain site or need to adjust the schedule slightly, the guide can usually accommodate. The included lunch at a local restaurant adds an authentic touch, giving you a taste of Cambodian cuisine.

However, some travelers note the long travel time to Preah Vihear might be tiring, especially on hot days, so bringing a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes is wise. Also, since the tour involves some climbing and walking, it’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy exploring ruins on foot.

Pricing and Value

At $355 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option available, but it offers value through its private, all-inclusive approach. You won’t need to worry about additional entrance fees or transport costs, as these are covered in the price. The personalized guide service and the chance to visit remote temples—which are often not included in group packages—justify the expense for many travelers seeking a more authentic experience.

This tour is especially valuable if you prefer a tailored, intimate experience and want to discover Cambodia’s lesser-known archaeological sites without the hassle of planning each detail yourself.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous travelers eager to see Cambodia’s hidden temples, history buffs looking for exclusive insights, and those who prefer privacy and flexibility over crowded group tours. It’s ideal for visitors who don’t mind a full day on the road and are comfortable with some physical activity—climbing stairs and exploring uneven ruins.

Couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers who want a personalized exploration will find this tour particularly rewarding. If your main goal is to tick off the iconic Angkor Wat, this tour complements a broader trip by offering a deeper dive into Cambodia’s less-visited treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a special ticket to visit these sites?
Yes, entrance tickets are included in the tour price, so you don’t need to purchase them separately.

What is the start time of the tour?
The tour begins at 6:00 am with a hotel pickup, allowing you to make the most of the day.

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group will participate and you’ll have personalized attention from your guide.

How long is the drive to Preah Vihear?
Approximately three hours, so be prepared for a scenic ride through Cambodia’s countryside.

Will I have enough time at each site?
Yes, the itinerary allocates about 2 hours at Preah Vihear, 2 hours at Beng Mealea, and 1 hour at Koh Ker—ample time to explore and take photos.

What should I wear?
Respectful clothing is required in sacred sites—think modest attire, avoiding revealing clothes like short skirts or bare shoulders.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While designed as a set schedule, the private nature of the tour means guides are often flexible if you wish to spend more or less time at certain sites.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking a more personal, off-the-beaten-path look at Cambodia’s ancient architecture, this private tour offers a compelling blend of adventure, history, and comfort. Visiting remote sites like Preah Vihear, Beng Mealea, and Koh Ker ensures a quieter, more intimate experience—perfect if you want to avoid crowded tourist spots and discover Cambodia’s archaeological gems in a relaxed setting.

While the full-day commitment might be tiring for some, the rewards are significant: stunning vistas, immersive ruins, and the chance to feel like a true explorer. This tour is especially suited for those with a curious spirit and an appreciation for authentic travel experiences.

If you’re after a well-organized, private journey that goes beyond Angkor Wat and dives into Cambodia’s lesser-known treasures, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

Note: Always confirm details like pickup time and dietary preferences ahead of your trip. Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are recommended to fully enjoy this adventure.