Beng Mealea and Koh Ker -the UNESCO World Heritage

Tucked away in the Cambodian jungle, the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Beng Mealea and Koh Ker offer a captivating glimpse into the grandeur of the Khmer Empire. Beng Mealea’s intricate carvings and collapsed corridors invite visitors to embark on an adventurous exploration, while the towering Prasat Thom pyramid at Koh Ker immerses them in rich history. These remarkable destinations provide a serene escape from the bustling Angkor complex, allowing travelers to enjoy Cambodia’s cultural heritage and witness the resilience of its ancient structures. With their unique charms, Beng Mealea and Koh Ker beckon the curious to uncover the wonders that lie beyond the beaten path.

Good To Know

• The tour explores two UNESCO World Heritage sites: Beng Mealea and Koh Ker, providing a comprehensive experience of Khmer history and architecture.
• Beng Mealea is a lesser-known gem offering a sense of adventure and exploration, with visitors able to navigate its intricate carvings and collapsed corridors.
• Koh Ker features the highlight Prasat Thom, a 30-meter-high pyramid temple that was the former capital of the Khmer Empire.
• The tour includes round-trip transportation, guided visits, and admission fees, simplifying the logistics for exploring these UNESCO sites.
• Additional costs, such as the required Angkor temple pass and separate admission fee for Beng Mealea, must be budgeted for by participants.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This tour offers a captivating exploration of two UNESCO World Heritage sites – Beng Mealea and Koh Ker.

Priced from £64.32 per person, the 9-hour tour includes round-trip transportation, guided visits to both sites, and bottled water.

Travelers will start their day with hotel pickup between 6:30 and 7:00 AM, visit the mysterious ruins of Beng Mealea, and then continue to the lesser-known Koh Ker, which served as the Khmer Empire’s capital in the 10th century.

Along the way, they’ll have opportunities for photo stops.

The tour also includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now, pay later option, making it a convenient and flexible choice.

Itinerary and Experience

The tour begins with a pickup from the hotel lobby between 6:30 am and 7:00 am, setting the stage for a day of exploration.

First, visitors will journey 55 km east of Angkor Wat to the ancient temple of Beng Mealea, spending an hour seeing its captivating ruins.

Afterward, they’ll enjoy a local lunch near the site before continuing the adventure to Koh Ker, located 100 km north of Siem Reap.

Here, the highlight is the Prasat Thom, a 30-meter high pyramid temple that once served as the capital of the Khmer Empire.

Tour Inclusions

The tour package includes ground transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking guide. This allows visitors to travel comfortably and learn about the sites from a knowledgeable expert.

Admission fees to the tour sites are also covered, ensuring hassle-free access. Bottled water and cold towels are provided, keeping travelers refreshed throughout the day.

While personal expenses like meals and camera fees aren’t included, the package offers a comprehensive experience that simplifies the logistics of exploring these UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Visitors can focus on seeing the rich history and cultural wonders of Beng Mealea and Koh Ker.

Additional Costs

Along With the inclusions in the tour package, visitors will need to cover a few additional costs.

These include:

1. A temple pass for $15.00 per person, payable on-site. This pass grants access to the Angkor Archaeological Park, home to the Beng Mealea and Koh Ker temples.

2. A separate admission fee of $37.00 per person for the Beng Mealea temple, unless the visitor holds an Angkor Pass.

3. Any personal expenses such as meals, camera fees, or additional activities not covered in the tour package.

It’s important to note that these additional costs aren’t included in the base tour price and must be paid separately by the participants.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Pickup and Duration

The tour begins with a pickup from the hotel lobby between 6:30 am and 7:00 am, providing a prompt start to the day’s activities. The tour lasts a total of 9 hours, allowing ample time to explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Beng Mealea and Koh Ker.

Site	Duration
Beng Mealea	1 hour
Lunch	–
Koh Ker	–
Return Drive	–

This comprehensive itinerary ensures visitors can fully enjoy the rich history and architectural wonders of these ancient Khmer sites, while also leaving room for photo opportunities along the way.

Beng Mealea

Situated approximately 55 kilometers east of the iconic Angkor Wat, Beng Mealea is a sprawling temple complex that has been reclaimed by the jungle over centuries.

Visitors to this UNESCO World Heritage site can expect:

1. Ample opportunities to explore the intricate carvings, collapsed corridors, and hidden sanctuaries of this mysterious 12th-century temple.

2. A sense of adventure as they navigate the uneven terrain and climb over fallen stones, evoking a feeling of being an explorer in a bygone era.

3. A chance to connect with the timeless beauty and haunting ambiance of this lesser-known gem, away from the crowds of the main Angkor complex.

Koh Ker Temple

Continuing the journey from the enigmatic Beng Mealea, the tour progresses northward to Koh Ker. This former capital of the Khmer Empire from 928 to 944 CE offers a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Cambodian civilization.

At the heart of the site stands Prasat Thom, an imposing 30-meter-high pyramid temple that dominates the landscape. Visitors can explore the temple’s intricate carvings and winding stairways, imagining the vibrant activities that once took place within its walls.

The site’s remoteness and fewer crowds allow for a more intimate experience, inviting travelers to connect with the site’s rich history and the resilience of the Khmer people.

Important Information

To ensure a seamless booking and tour experience, visitors should check the availability of starting times, as schedules may vary.

The tour operator’s official website provides information on purchasing the required temple passes. Visitors can choose between private or small group options to connect with the local culture and avoid crowds at the less-visited sites.

1. The official website for temple pass purchase is https://www.angkorenterprise.gov.kh/.
2. The Beng Mealea pass costs $37.00 per person, but Angkor Pass holders are exempt.
3. The temple pass, which costs $15.00 per person, is payable on-site.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but the tour price doesn’t include them. The tour provides bottled water and cold towels, so bringing additional snacks or beverages is optional.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Sites?

The best time to visit the sites is during the dry season, typically between November and May, when the weather is cool and dry, making for comfortable exploration. Crowds tend to be smaller during this period.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, and it’s suitable for travelers of all ages. Children are welcome, but parents should supervise their kids during the tour.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to fit your interests. The tour operator offers flexible options, allowing you to tailor the itinerary to your preferences, such as spending more time at certain sites or adding additional stops.

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for the Tour?

The tour offers a "Reserve now & pay later" option, but there don’t appear to be any discounts or packages available. However, the guide can customize the itinerary to fit your interests upon request.

Sum Up

Beng Mealea and Koh Ker offer visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the captivating history and enchanting landscapes of the Khmer Empire. These UNESCO World Heritage sites showcase the remarkable resilience and cultural heritage of Cambodia, inviting travelers to explore the intricate carvings, collapsed corridors, and the stunning Prasat Thom pyramid temple, all while surrounded by the serene beauty of the lush jungle.

You can check if your dates are available here: