Siem Reap Tour- Koh Ker & Beng Mealea Full-Day Join-in Tour

Discover the Hidden Gems of Cambodia: A Full-Day Tour to Koh Ker & Beng Mealea

This full-day tour from Siem Reap offers a wonderful chance to see some of Cambodia’s lesser-visited temple ruins—Koh Ker and Beng Mealea—away from the crowds of Angkor Wat. It’s ideal for travelers craving a more off-the-beaten-path experience with the comfort of guided insights and convenient transport.

What we really love about this experience is that it combines remote, mystical sites with a knowledgeable guide trained by the Apsara Authority, ensuring you get authentic, well-informed commentary. Plus, the comfortable mini-bus and included amenities like cold water and towels make the long day much more pleasant.

A potential consideration is that admission fees for the sites are not included**, so you’ll need to budget for those separately. Also, the cafes near some sites are quite basic, so packing a lunch or preparing for simple eats is advisable.

This tour is perfect for travelers eager to expand their Angkor experience, those interested in Hindu temple ruins, or anyone wanting to explore Cambodia’s more remote archaeological sites with a small group for a personal touch.

Key Points

Authentic remote sites: Visit Koh Ker and Beng Mealea, less crowded but equally stunning temples.
Expert guidance: Certified guides provide detailed insights, enriching your understanding of Khmer history.
Comfortable transport: Air-conditioned mini-bus with amenities, making a long day comfortable.
Flexible options: Bring your own lunch or opt for nearby cafes, though they are quite basic.
Full-day adventure: Approximately 9 hours of exploration, with time allocated for each site and a relaxing return.
Value for money: For $79, you get transportation, guiding, and a full day of discovery, with flexibility on cancellations.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Prasat Beng Mealea – The Mystical Jungle Temple

Your day begins with a 2-hour visit to Beng Mealea, located about 40 km east of Angkor. This sprawling temple is often called a “lost temple” because of its overgrown, jungle-covered ruins that evoke a sense of adventure. We loved the way the moss-covered stones and fallen lintels create an atmosphere of discovery. It’s less commercialized than Angkor Wat, so expect fewer travelers and a more authentic, untouched feel.

The site’s layout is quite sprawling, with numerous corridors, collapsed towers, and large stone blocks scattered across the jungle floor. It’s a photographer’s dream and a place where you can truly feel like you’re stepping back in time. The only downside? Admission isn’t included, so be prepared for an extra fee.

Koh Ker Temple – An Ancient 10th-Century Complex

Next, a roughly 1-hour drive brings us to Koh Ker, a site that was briefly the capital of the Khmer Empire. This UNESCO-listed complex is famous for its 7-tiered pyramid and an impressive collection of Hindu temples. We appreciated the sense of scale here—the pyramid is visually striking and offers an idea of Khmer architectural ambition.

The site is less crowded, and guides often highlight the significance of the many smaller temples and carvings that surround the main pyramids. Some reviews mention that the ruins are “spectacular” and offer “amazing views,” especially from the top of the pyramid, making it a worthwhile stop for those interested in Khmer architecture.

Prasat Linga 1 or Prasat Thnoeng – The Square Sandstone Marvels

The tour then visits Prasat Linga 1 (also known as Prasat Thnoeng), a large square sandstone temple. This site takes about 45 minutes, during which guides usually explain the symbolism behind the intricate carvings and the temple’s architectural style. It’s a great place for appreciating Khmer stonework, and some visitors have noted the beautifully preserved lintels and inscriptions.

Prasat Kraham – A Solitary Tower

Following that, the group heads to Prasat Kraham, a partially-ruined brick tower resting on a laterite base. This site, about 45 minutes long, offers a peaceful, less-visited atmosphere, and travelers often find it intriguing because of its solitary nature and the stories it holds. The ruins here provide a quieter moment to reflect and soak in the history.

Prasat Krachap – A Unique Group of Temples

The final stop in Koh Ker is Prasat Krachap, which was originally a group of five square brick temples built on a shared terrace. This site is notable for its ornate lintels, grand entrances, and inscriptions—some of which are still visible. The site features the restored central shrine, protected by a shelter, and the elaborate pediments and lintels that were uncovered during excavations.

You’ll find the site’s ruins captivating, especially the ornate carvings and inscriptions that give insight into the site’s original grandeur. It’s a chance to see the intricate artistry of Khmer temple builders.

Return and Relaxation in Siem Reap

The last part of the day involves a relaxing 1.5-hour return trip back to Siem Reap, ending with you enjoying your hotel’s pool or a quiet evening after a full day of exploring.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price of $79 per person is quite reasonable considering the full day of guided exploration, comfortable transport, and amenities like cold water and towels. The guide, trained and certified by the Apsara Authority, is known for providing engaging and informative commentary, ensuring you get context and stories behind each site.

However, admission fees for Beng Mealea and the Koh Ker group are not included, which can add up, so travelers should budget extra. You might find the cafes near the sites are quite basic, so packing a lunch or preparing for simple snacks is a good idea if you prefer not to eat at the nearby eateries.

The tour’s small group size, limited to your booking, means a more intimate experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and take photos without feeling rushed.

Transportation and Comfort

Transport is via an 8 to 15-seat air-conditioned mini-bus. Travelers have reported that the ride is smooth, and the amenities like ice-cold bottled water and swap towels are thoughtful touches, especially on a hot day. The vehicle’s size is perfect for navigating the sometimes narrow or rough roads leading to these remote sites.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Anyone eager to see Cambodia’s lesser-known temples will find this tour rewarding. It’s especially good for those who enjoy history, archaeology, and photography—the sites provide stunning views and unique photo opportunities.

Travelers with limited time in Siem Reap but wanting to venture further afield will appreciate the full-day format that covers multiple sites without feeling rushed. On top of that, the small group setting ensures a personalized experience, which many reviewers found engaging and friendly.

Final Thoughts

This Koh Ker and Beng Mealea full-day tour from Siem Reap offers an excellent balance between comfort, authenticity, and adventure. It’s a fantastic way to see hidden temples that are often overshadowed by the more famous Angkor sites. The guide’s expertise enhances the experience, providing insights that bring the ruins alive.

While there are extra costs for entrance tickets and some basic nearby cafes, the overall value is high, especially considering the quiet, atmospheric ruins and the chance to escape the crowds. It’s well-suited for history buffs, photographers, or anyone craving a more intimate look at Cambodia’s ancient monuments.

If you’re looking for a full day of exploration that’s both informative and scenic, this tour hits the mark—offering a satisfying blend of adventure, discovery, and relaxation.

FAQ

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off within Siem Reap, making it convenient to start and end your day.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day experience lasts approximately 9 hours, from around 8:00 am until you return to Siem Reap.

What should I bring?
Bringing a packed lunch is recommended, though there are basic cafes nearby. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and your camera for the stunning views.

Are the entrance fees included?
No, the entry tickets for Beng Mealea and Koh Ker are not included and need to be purchased separately.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the visit to expansive ruins can be exciting for kids, but keep in mind the walking involved and basic amenities at some sites.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

What kind of guide will I have?
A professional, English-speaking guide certified by the Apsara Authority will accompany your group, offering insightful commentary throughout the day.

Is the transportation comfortable?
Yes, the mini-bus is air-conditioned, with amenities like cold water and towels, making the journey comfortable even on hot days.

This tour is a wonderful way to deepen your understanding of Cambodia’s ancient history while enjoying a comfortable, personalized experience. Explore the quiet ruins, learn from expert guides, and enjoy the scenic drive—an adventure that will add a memorable chapter to your trip.