Beng Mealea Temple Tour with Rolous Group and Artisan Angkor

This full-day tour offers a fantastic glimpse into Cambodia beyond the usual Angkor Wat highlights. With visits to Beng Mealea, the Roluos group temples, and a stop at Artisans Angkor, it blends adventure, history, and cultural craftsmanship. The experience is tailored for curious travelers who want to see less-crowded sites and get a more authentic feel of Cambodia’s ancient past and vibrant present.

One of the standout features of this tour is the chance to explore Beng Mealea—a temple that feels like an archaeological playground, with its overgrown stones and adventurous pathways. We particularly like that the tour includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a visit to Artisans Angkor, which supports local craftsmanship. A potential challenge could be the rough terrain at Beng Mealea, which might not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues. This tour suits history buffs, cultural explorers, and those seeking a slightly offbeat experience away from the crowds.

Key Points

• Authentic Adventure: Beng Mealea provides a more rugged, untouched feel compared to popular Angkor sites.
• Cultural Insight: The visit to Artisans Angkor offers a chance to see traditional crafts and support local artisans.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Combines ruins, temples, and cultural experiences in a well-balanced day.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes air-conditioned transport, hotel pickup, and a professional guide.
• Flexible Exploration: Wooden walkways plus free time to scramble over stones at Beng Mealea for the adventurous.
• Good Value: At $115 per person, it covers transport, guide, and a meaningful cultural stop.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transportation

Right from the start, we appreciated the hotel pickup in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The drive out to Beng Mealea takes about 1-2 hours, depending on road conditions, which gives you plenty of time to relax and get a sense of the Cambodian countryside. The tour company, Angkor Daily Trip, ensures smooth logistics, and the guide’s insights add context to the scenery en route.

Beng Mealea: The Main Attraction

Beng Mealea is the heart of this tour. Located roughly 40 kilometers east of Angkor Wat, it’s a less-developed, more wild experience—a stark contrast to the well-preserved temples. The site is famous for its sprawling layout, overgrown trees, and crumbling stones. Wooden walkways have been installed to safely navigate most areas, but the guide explained that many parts are still accessible by scrambling over stones, offering a sense of adventure.

One reviewer noted, “We loved the way Beng Mealea felt like an ancient jungle puzzle,” and that sums up the experience perfectly. It’s ideal for those who want to step back in time and imagine how the temple might have looked centuries ago. The site is less crowded, which enhances the feeling of discovering something special, rather than posing for photos in endless lines.

However, because of the uneven terrain and the nature of the site, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with some walking and balance. The adventurous spirit will be rewarded here, as you can explore at your own pace. Expect to spend around 3 hours here—more than enough time to snap photos, soak in the atmosphere, and climb around.

Roluos Group Temples: A Step into Cambodia’s Early Kingdom

After Beng Mealea, the tour takes you to Lolei, the northernmost of the Roluos group of three temples, built in the late 9th century. This site is smaller but historically significant as it marks the foundation of the Khmer Empire’s early architecture. The quiet, peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect contrast to Beng Mealea’s ruggedness.

Next, you’ll visit Preah Ko, the first temple built in the ancient city of Hariharalaya, located about 15 kilometers from the main Angkor complex. It’s characterized by its brick and sandstone construction, offering insight into early Khmer religious architecture. Spending about an hour at each site, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s sacred sites and how they evolved over centuries.

The Bakong temple, the last of the group, is notable for being the first Khmer temple mountain built of sandstone. It’s an impressive structure, with a stepped pyramid design that embodies the early Khmer’s architectural ingenuity. Spending around two hours here, you’ll appreciate the scale and artistry that laid the groundwork for later Angkorian temples.

Supporting Local Artisans at Artisans Angkor

The final stop is Artisans Angkor, a social enterprise dedicated to reviving traditional Khmer craftsmanship. Located just a few minutes walk from Siem Reap’s Old Market, it offers visitors a chance to see artisans at work, creating everything from stone carvings to silk textiles.

This visit not only supports Cambodian youth but also provides a deeper cultural connection. Many reviewers appreciated this part, noting it’s an opportunity to buy authentic souvenirs crafted by local artisans. The included admission makes it a convenient and meaningful ending to the day, and many find browsing here more than just shopping—it’s a window into contemporary Cambodian culture.

Practical Details & What to Expect

The tour is priced at $115 per person, which is a reasonable investment considering transport, an experienced guide, and the visit to Artisans Angkor. While lunch isn’t included, there are plenty of options in Siem Reap or near the sites to grab a quick bite. The tour is private, so you won’t be in a big crowd—allowing for a more relaxed and personalized experience.

The entire day lasts about 8 hours, with most of the time spent exploring and driving. The flexibility in exploring Beng Mealea is a highlight, especially if you’re the type who wants to climb and wander off the beaten path.

Additional Considerations

• The terrain at Beng Mealea can be uneven; wear sturdy shoes and bring water.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues might find some areas challenging.
• The guide’s commentary adds context and stories, enriching your understanding of each site.
• Booking this tour gives you a full-day, thoughtfully curated experience that balances adventure, culture, and support for local artisans.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour appeals most to adventure-minded history enthusiasts eager to see less-visited temples and experience Cambodia beyond the crowds. It’s a great choice if you want to combine exploration with cultural support—visiting artisans and learning about local craftsmanship. The inclusion of transport, guiding, and visits to significant but quieter sites makes it perfect for travelers who value depth and authenticity over ticking off the most famous attractions.

If you’re comfortable with some walking and scrambling, and want a full, balanced day of discovery, this tour offers excellent value. However, if you prefer completely guided, paved, and comfortable experiences, some of the more developed Angkor tours might be better suited.

Final Thoughts

The Beng Mealea Temple Tour with Rolous Group and Artisan Angkor strikes a thoughtful balance between adventure, history, and cultural engagement. It’s especially well-suited to travelers looking to escape the crowds and see a different side of Cambodia’s ancient landscape. The carefully curated stops, combined with the support for local artisans, make this experience both meaningful and memorable.

The tour’s price reflects good value considering the transportation, guide, and entry to artisan workshops. Expect a full day that’s packed with discovery, and come prepared for some uneven terrain—adventurers will be pleased. Whether you’re a history buff or a curious traveler seeking authentic experiences, this tour provides a genuine taste of Cambodia’s past and present.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a professional English-speaking guide, bottled water, and the visit to Artisans Angkor. Admission tickets for the temples are not included.

How long is the drive from Siem Reap to Beng Mealea?
The drive takes approximately 1 to 2 hours, depending on road conditions, making for a comfortable journey out of the city.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues might find some areas at Beng Mealea challenging due to uneven terrain. Good shoes and a sense of adventure are recommended.

Can I buy souvenirs at Artisans Angkor?
Yes, Artisans Angkor is a workshop and shop where you can buy authentic, handcrafted Cambodian items. Many visitors find it a meaningful place to pick up souvenirs.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch isn’t included. Travelers often bring snacks or plan to eat near Siem Reap after the tour, although there are options nearby.

What’s the best way to prepare for the day?
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for scrambling and walking on uneven ground, bring plenty of water, and have a camera ready for plenty of photo opportunities at Beng Mealea and the other sites.