Full Day to Banteay Srei, Kulen National Park and Beng Mealea

Set out on a captivating journey through Cambodia’s rich cultural and natural heritage with a full-day tour to Banteay Srei, Kulen National Park, and Beng Mealea. Marvel at the exquisite 10th-century carvings of Banteay Srei, dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva, before enjoying the historical significance of Kulen National Park, where sacred rivers and ancient temples await your discovery. The day’s adventure culminates in the enchanting ruins of Beng Mealea, a 12th-century temple enveloped in nature, offering a unique glimpse into Cambodia’s past. Prepare to be captivated by the country’s timeless wonders and uncover the stories that lie within.

Good To Know

• This full-day tour covers three must-see sites: Banteay Srei, Kulen National Park, and Beng Mealea, providing insights into Cambodia’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
• The tour includes an English-speaking guide with over 20 years of experience, an air-conditioned vehicle, and a traditional Khmer lunch at a local restaurant.
• Visitors can explore the intricate carvings and divine figures at the "Lady Temple" of Banteay Srei, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva.
• Kulen National Park offers a glimpse into Cambodia’s past, featuring the River of a Thousand Lingas with ancient carvings and sacred sites.
• The tour provides the opportunity to discover the untamed charm of Beng Mealea, a 12th-century temple preserved in a natural state with vegetation covering the ruins.

Exploring Kulen National Park

Nestled about an hour’s drive from Siem Reap, Kulen National Park is a treasure trove of ancient wonders. The park is home to a wealth of historical sites, including temples, sacred rivers, and stunning waterfalls.

One of the park’s highlights is the River of a Thousand Lingas, where visitors can see intricate carvings of Hindu deities and phallus symbols along the riverbed. These carvings were created to consecrate the river as a Ganges River equivalent for Angkorian ceremonies.

With its diverse array of natural and cultural attractions, Kulen National Park offers visitors a unique glimpse into Cambodia’s rich history and spiritual heritage.

Discovering Banteay Srei’s Carvings

Frequently celebrated as the "Lady Temple", Banteay Srei is renowned for its exquisite carvings that date back to the 10th century.

Dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, the temple’s architecture features intricate deep-cut reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu epics.

These detailed carvings showcase the remarkable craftsmanship of the Khmer artisans who constructed the temple.

Visitors are often captivated by the temple’s delicate ornamentation, which includes intricate floral and geometric patterns, as well as depictions of divine figures.

Banteay Srei’s well-preserved state and exceptional artistic merit make it a must-see for anyone exploring the rich cultural heritage of Cambodia.

Lunch at the Tour

After taking in the intricate carvings and architectural marvels at Banteay Srei, travelers can look forward to a satisfying lunch during the tour.

The included lunch, costing between $5 to $7 per person, is served at a local restaurant.

The menu typically features:

• Traditional Khmer dishes, such as amok, a coconut-based curry
• Fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables
• Flavorful rice or noodle-based entrees
• Refreshing beverages like iced coffee or tropical fruit juices
• Vegetarian and dietary-restriction options available upon request

Fueled by the delicious local cuisine, the group can then continue their journey to the next destination, Kulen National Park, to explore its sacred sites and natural wonders.

Beng Mealea’s Overgrown Ruins

The 12th century temple of Beng Mealea provides visitors with a unique and captivating experience. Constructed during the reign of King Suryavarman II, this temple is preserved in a natural state, with trees and vegetation sprawling over its ruins.

Visitors can explore the crumbling walls, fallen columns, and overgrown passageways, which offer a glimpse into the past. The temple’s rugged and untamed appearance contrasts with the more orderly and restored temples found elsewhere in the region.

Beng Mealea’s untamed charm allows visitors to imagine what the Angkorian temples may have looked like before extensive excavation and restoration efforts. The admission ticket for Beng Mealea is $37 per person, providing access to this unique and atmospheric relic of Cambodia’s past.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

As part of the Banteay Srei and Kulen National Park tour, the tour provider includes several key services and amenities to enhance the overall experience for visitors.

The tour includes:

• An English-speaking guide with over 20 years of experience to provide insightful commentary
• An air-conditioned vehicle for comfortable transportation
• Bottled water to stay hydrated
• Lunch, with costs ranging from $5 to $7 per person
• Admission tickets to Banteay Srei, Beng Mealea, and Kulen National Park

Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available.

Pickup and Start Time

The tour provides multiple pickup options for visitors’ convenience. Guests can be picked up from selected points around Siem Reap or meet the group directly at the designated starting location – Brown Coffee Treeline on Wat Bo Road.

The tour typically departs between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, allowing ample time to explore the day’s attractions. Travelers should confirm the exact start time with the local provider before the tour date.

The early morning departure ensures visitors can make the most of the day and avoid the midday heat while sightseeing at the ancient temples and natural wonders of Kulen National Park.

Reviews From Previous Travelers

Travelers’ reviews of the Banteay Srei and Kulen National Park tour have been overwhelmingly positive.

Two travelers, Victoria_S and ThienY_H, shared their experiences online. Victoria_S praised the temples, lunch, and river, and noted the guide’s extensive knowledge of Cambodian history.

ThienY_H complimented the friendly and knowledgeable guide, Nak, and appreciated the comfortable ride.

The tour appears to offer a well-rounded experience, visiting:

• The intricately carved "Lady Temple" of Banteay Srei
• The sacred Kulen National Park with its 1000 Lingas river
• The overgrown, temple of Beng Mealea
• An informative, experienced guide
• Convenient transportation and amenities

Booking and Cancellation Details

According to the information provided, booking the Banteay Srei and Kulen National Park tour is straightforward. Travelers can confirm their booking at the time of reservation.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available. It’s a private tour, meaning only the group participates. Customers can cancel their booking up to 24 hours before the experience starts without any penalties. Most travelers are able to join the tour.

The tour operator provides an English-speaking guide with over 20 years of experience, an air-conditioned vehicle, and bottled water. Lunch and admission tickets to the sites are additional costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour is operated as a private tour, meaning only your group participates. The maximum group size is not explicitly stated, but it’s likely a small group experience tailored to your needs.

Are Vegetarian or Halal Meal Options Available?

The tour operator does not mention specific vegetarian or halal meal options. However, they note that lunch can be purchased for $5 to $7 per person, suggesting the ability to accommodate dietary needs upon request.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Individual Preferences?

The tour can be customized to individual preferences. Travelers can discuss their needs with the tour operator, who can adjust the itinerary, meal options, and other details to ensure a personalized experience.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included in the Price?

The tour price typically includes pickup, transportation, guide, admission fees, and bottled water. However, there may be additional costs for optional activities, personal expenses, and meals beyond the provided lunch.

Can the Tour Start or End at a Different Location?

Yes, the tour can start or end at a different location. The operator offers pickup service from selected points or allows participants to meet directly at the Brown Coffee Treeline on Wat Bo Rd in Siem Reap.

Sum Up

This captivating full-day tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Cambodia’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Visitors will marvel at the exquisite carvings of Banteay Srei, explore the historical significance of Kulen National Park, and wander through the enchanting ruins of Beng Mealea, all while experiencing the country’s diverse landscapes and ancient wonders. This comprehensive tour provides a well-rounded glimpse into Cambodia’s past, making it an unforgettable and enriching experience.