Lost Temples Discovery Koh Ker and Beng Mealea Adventure
Spend the day exploring the historic Khmer Empire's finest relics. Marvel at Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and the enigmatic Ta Prohm Temple, which are epic monuments to Cambodia's rich history.
Koh Ker and Beng Mealea Adventure
This full-day tour explores abandoned 10th-century structures north of Koh Ker, the old capital trapped in impenetrable jungle. To learn about Beng Mealea’s history, visit the temple, which is surrounded by overgrowth. Exploring off-beaten roads provides insights into lesser-known Angkor heritage.
This full-day private tour takes you north of Siem Reap to discover the abandoned 10th-century capital of Koh Ker and other lesser-known temples.
- Discover the great temple of Koh Ker, which was formerly the royal capital of the Angkorian Empire and demonstrates the grandeur of an old civilization.
- Climb to the pinnacle of Koh Ker temple for stunning views of Cambodia’s rural landscape.
- Visit the temples of Prasat Thom, Prasat Neag Kmao, and Prasat Pram in the Koh Ker complex.
- On the way back to Siem Reap, explore the partially ruined temple of Beng Mealea, which has lately been reclaimed by jungle.
Itinerary
After breakfast, your tour guide and driver will pick you up at 8:00 a.m. and take you to King Jayavaraman IV’s ancient capital, which he transferred north from Angkor Wat to Koh Ker. The road, which was once a dirt path prone to flooding during the rainy season, is now paved, offering a comfortable three-hour trip through magnificent landscape.
Upon arrival at the Koh Ker complex, you will see the lesser temples of Prasat Thom, Prasat Neag Kmao, and Prasat Pram before moving on to the main temple, Koh Ker. This temple, which served as the Angkorian Empire’s royal capital from 928 to 944 AD, is now abandoned yet preserves the grandeur and might of the ancient civilization.
Despite damage and missing statues, Koh Ker remains a stunning tribute to the Khmer Empire. If you have the energy and are not frightened of heights, you can climb to the temple’s pinnacle and enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
Your guide will propose a local eatery near the temple for lunch before moving on to more temples.
On the way back to Siem Reap, you will stop at Beng Mealea, a temple that was controlled by the Khmer Rouge during the civil war in the 1980s and was only recently opened to the public. With much of the temple in ruins and others reclaimed by the jungle, it’s an intriguing place to explore and a peaceful alternative to the more frequented monuments. You’ll then head back to your accommodation, stopping along the way to try the famous bamboo sticky rice.
After your guided explorations in the late afternoon, you will be dropped off at your hotel around 17:00-17:30.
Pickup and Drop Off
- Pickup: 8:00am at your hotel lobby.
- Drop off at approximately 17:00-17:30, back at your hotel lobby.
Included
- Comfortable hotel pick-up and drop-off service.
- Explore the temples of Prasat Thom, Prasat Neag Kmao, and Prasat Pram at the Koh Ker complex.
- Private, air-conditioned vehicle
- Licensed English Speaking Guides
- Cold bottled water and fresh tissues are given throughout excursions.
Tour Exclusions
- An entrance ticket to Angkor Archaeological Park is required. Tickets cost $37 per person and must be purchased in advance at the ticket office located on the way to the park. Your guide will assist you to get one
- Meals
- Tips
What to Bring
Additionally, ensure to pack these essential essentials!
- A tiny backpack or bag to transport your essentials.
- Don’t forget sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s rays.
- Bring mosquito repellant, because bugs might be irritating in Cambodia.
- Choose comfy shoes for the brief 10- to 15-minute stroll along a small route!
- Cash in small denominations for admission fees, souvenirs, and tips.
Additional Info
Pickup & Drop Off:
- Pickup is 8:00AM from your hotel in Siem Reap
- Drop off is between 17:00-17:30 PM back at your hotel
Meals:
- Lunch is not included but can be purchased at a local restaurant
Dress Code:
- Lightweight and comfy clothing that shields the shoulders and knees out of respect for the local culture and religious norms
- Comfortable walking shoes as you may need to walk on uneven surfaces
Money & Documents:
- Leave passport, excess cash/cards at your hotel for safekeeping
- Bring enough money for meals, entrance fees and incidentals
Accesibility:
- The tour implicates considerable walking and climbing stairs. Not wheelchair accessible
Cancellation Policy
- Refunds: Full refunds for cancellations made with at least 24 hours’ notice.
- Non-Refundable: Cancellations within 24 hours or no-shows will not be eligible for refunds.
- Amendments: Changes must be communicated at least 24 hours in advance.
- Refund Processing: Refunds will be processed within 7 business days.
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