Bueng Mealea and Floating Village 1-day Tour

An Authentic Day Exploring Cambodia’s Hidden Gems
This Bueng Mealea and Floating Village 1-day Tour offers an excellent way to experience Cambodia beyond the bustling temples of Angkor. For around $60, you’ll get a full itinerary that combines a rare, unrestored temple lost in jungle beauty with a peaceful boat ride through a floating village—perfect for travelers seeking a balance of history, nature, and culture.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is its focus on less touristy spots, especially Bueng Mealea, which remains largely untouched and overgrown, giving you a sense of discovering something truly authentic. The convenience of pickup and drop-off from Siem Reap adds to its appeal, making the day hassle-free.

A potential consideration is that the entry fees are extra—$37 for temple tickets and $20 for boat tickets—meaning the total cost is slightly higher than the base price. Also, the tour involves a fair amount of driving, so travelers should be prepared for an 8-hour adventure with some long stretches between sites.

This tour is best suited for those who love exploring off-the-beaten-path sites, want to see both ancient ruins and rural life, and prefer a private, personalized experience. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate a mix of history, scenic beauty, and culture without the crowds.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Focus on less touristy spots like Bueng Mealea and Kpong Khlang Floating Village.
• Comprehensive Day: Combines history, nature, and local culture in one trip.
• Convenient Logistics: Transfers and transportation are included, saving planning time.
• Additional Costs: Entrance fees and boat tickets are extra, so budget accordingly.
• Travel Comfort: Modern A/C vehicles and cooling towels keep you comfortable on the road.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Discovering Bueng Mealea: The Jungle Temple

Starting at 9:00 AM, the tour kicks off with a comfortable pickup from your Siem Reap accommodation. We loved the way the guide from Peacock Asia Tours shared engaging tidbits about Bueng Mealea, which is often called the “Jungle Temple.” Located about 60 km from town, this enormous site is a true hidden gem—largely unrestored, overgrown with jungle, and filled with a sense of mystery.

The temple’s large sandstone blocks are adorned with both Hindu and Buddhist carvings, and the structure is oriented towards the east, typical of many Khmer temples. The absence of restoration means you get to walk amongst the ruins much as explorers might have centuries ago, providing a sense of discovery that’s hard to find at more polished sites.

Many reviews highlight the peaceful atmosphere here—“It feels like stepping back in time,” one traveler remarked. You can climb into the crumbling corridors, peer through jungle-fringed windows, and imagine the temple in its prime. Keep in mind, since no restoration has been done, the terrain can be uneven, so come prepared with good footwear and a sense of adventure.

The guide emphasizes that Bueng Mealea is a must-see because 100% of the temple remains unrestored, offering a rare, unfiltered glimpse into Cambodia’s ancient architecture. It’s a stark contrast to Angkor Wat’s polished grandeur, making it an ideal spot for those who want to experience history in its raw form.

Lunch and Relaxation

After exploring Bueng Mealea, the tour provides time for a relaxing lunch. Most local eateries offer simple Cambodian dishes—think rice, noodles, and fresh vegetables—giving you a taste of everyday life. Travelers have mentioned that the meal provides much-needed energy for the afternoon ahead, especially after the morning’s walking and exploration.

Post-lunch, there’s a moment to unwind before heading out to the next highlight—Kompong Khleang Floating Village. Many reviews note that the relaxed pace of the tour allows you to enjoy each part without feeling rushed.

Journey to Kompong Khleang: The Floating Village

Traveling approximately 55 km east of Siem Reap, the village of Kompong Khleang offers an authentic look into rural Cambodian life along the Tonle Sap Lake. Unlike the more touristy Kampong Pluk, this floating village remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, providing a more genuine and peaceful experience.

Once there, you’ll hop onto a boat (additional fees apply—around $20) to cruise through the narrow canals and see stilt houses, floating markets, and local fishers. Reviewers rave about the serenity and authenticity of this part of the tour. One wrote, “This isn’t a staged attraction; it’s real life on the water.”

The boat ride is a highlight, offering unique photo opportunities and a chance to witness how local Cambodians live, work, and adapt to the changing seasons. The floating village experience helps illustrate the importance of Tonle Sap to Cambodia’s ecology and economy.

Practical Details: Transport, Cost, and Comfort

Throughout the day, you’ll be traveling in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle—crucial for staying comfortable in the hot, humid Cambodian climate. The tour includes cool water and towels, which many travelers find a thoughtful touch after the morning’s outdoor exploration.

While the $60.90 price covers transportation, guide, and some logistical support, keep in mind that entrance fees for the temples ($37) and boat ($20) are separate. Some reviews mention that the overall expense is reasonable considering the depth of experience and the private, tailored approach of the tour.

The tour is designed for most travelers, with straightforward logistics and a flexible cancellation policy—free if canceled 24 hours in advance. This makes it easier to plan your day without stress.

Final Thoughts: Is this Tour Worth It?

This full-day adventure offers a fantastic way to add variety to your Siem Reap visit. It’s perfect if you’re craving a more authentic, less crowded experience—whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or someone interested in local Cambodian life. The combination of jungle ruins and a floating village captures a side of Cambodia that’s often missed in typical temple tours.

The tour’s value lies in its convenience, diverse sights, and opportunity for genuine cultural encounters. The price is fair considering the transportation, guides, and unique sites included. Plus, the flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind—important in uncertain travel times.

However, be prepared for some long driving stretches and additional costs for entrance and boat tickets. If you’re after a fully guided, hassle-free day that balances adventure and relaxation, this tour fits the bill nicely.

In summary, this experience is best for travelers who want to explore beyond the usual Angkor highlights, enjoy a peaceful boat ride, and see Cambodia’s countryside in a meaningful way. It’s a practical, authentic, and affordable day out that enriches your understanding of Cambodia’s diverse landscape and history.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off in Siem Reap, transportation by A/C vehicle, and cool water and towels. It does not include meals or the entrance and boat tickets, which are paid separately.

What should I wear for this tour?
Dress appropriately for temple visits—preferably light cotton clothes that cover shoulders and knees. Avoid tank tops and scarves or shawls are not needed for this tour, but comfortable walking shoes are essential due to uneven terrain.

Are the sites crowded?
No, especially Bueng Mealea, which remains largely unrestored and less visited. The floating village provides a peaceful alternative to more tourist-heavy spots.

How long is the boat ride at the floating village?
While the specific duration isn’t detailed, it involves a boat trip through narrow canals, which many reviewers find to be a highlight of the day.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the experience is exclusive to your group, providing a personalized, relaxed atmosphere.

What is the cost of entrance fees?
Temple tickets are $37 per person, and boat tickets are $20 per person, paid separately from the tour price.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Absolutely. Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for your trip planning.

This tour offers a well-rounded look at Cambodia’s less-traveled sites with comfortable logistics and a focus on genuine experiences. If you’re eager to see some of the country’s hidden treasures and enjoy a relaxed, private day out, it’s definitely worth considering.