Prasat Thom, Koh Ker Group & Beng Mealea Full-Day Tour

Explore Cambodia’s ancient Khmer heritage on a captivating full-day tour. Discover the towering 10th-century Prasat Thom pyramid, marvel at the intricate carvings of the former Khmer capital at Koh Ker, and wander through the mystical Beng Mealea temple complex enveloped by nature. This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to uncover the architectural marvels and historical significance that have captivated visitors for centuries. Delve deeper into the rich cultural tapestry of this captivating region and uncover the stories that have been preserved through the ages.

Good To Know

• This full-day tour explores the ancient Khmer historical sites of Prasat Thom, Koh Ker Group, and Beng Mealea in Cambodia.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, air-conditioned transportation, an English-speaking guide, lunch, and all necessary entry fees.
• Visitors can climb the steep steps of Prasat Thom for panoramic views, discover the enigmatic Garuda statue at Koh Ker, and explore the crumbling ruins of Beng Mealea.
• The tour is priced at $90 per person and can be canceled up to 24 hours prior for a full refund.
• Comfortable attire and walking shoes are recommended due to the uneven terrain and challenging treks at the historical sites.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The full-day tour of Prasat Thom, Koh Ker Group, and Beng Mealea offers visitors an immersive exploration of Cambodia’s ancient Khmer history.

Priced from $90 per person, the tour lasts 8 hours and includes hotel pickup in Siem Reap. Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours prior for a full refund, and the option to reserve now and pay later is available.

The itinerary covers a 130-kilometer drive, guided tours, and breaks for lunch and sightseeing. Included services are an air-conditioned vehicle, English-speaking guide, bottled water, lunch, local taxes, and temple pass.

Visitors should wear long trousers or knee-length skirts and bring comfortable walking shoes, as the tour operates in all weather conditions.

Itinerary Highlights

This full-day tour takes visitors on a journey through Cambodia’s ancient Khmer history, beginning with a trek through the countryside to the Koh Ker temple group.

Once there, guests will explore the ancient capital of the Khmer Empire, which flourished from 928-944 AD.

Next, the tour heads to Beng Mealea, a sprawling 11th-century temple largely overtaken by vegetation. Spanning over a square kilometer, this impressive site offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Khmer architecture.

Throughout the day, the tour includes breaks for lunch and sightseeing, as well as an approximately 130-kilometer drive through the picturesque Cambodian landscape.

Included Services

Alongside the air-conditioned vehicle and English-speaking guide, this tour provides bottled water, a local restaurant lunch, and the necessary temple pass and local taxes, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience.

Travelers won’t have to worry about carrying cash for entry fees, as they’re all included. The tour also includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so participants can sit back and enjoy the journey.

With these comprehensive services, the focus remains on exploring the historical wonders of Prasat Thom, Koh Ker Group, and Beng Mealea, without the hassle of logistical arrangements.

Travel Guidelines

When exploring these ancient Khmer sites, visitors should adhere to a few travel guidelines.

Appropriate attire is required, with long trousers or knee-length skirts/dresses recommended for both comfort and respect. Comfortable walking shoes are advised, as the terrain can be uneven.

Smoking isn’t permitted inside the tour vehicle. The tour operates rain or shine, so participants should be prepared for various weather conditions.

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Customer Feedback

Customers have overall praised the full-day tour of Prasat Thom, Koh Ker Group, and Beng Mealea, rating it 4.7 out of 5 based on 3 reviews.

Positive remarks highlighted the engaging itinerary, well-organized logistics, and knowledgeable guides.

However, some suggestions for improvement include ensuring the guide’s English proficiency is clear for better communication.

Customers notably appreciated the included lunch and air-conditioned transportation.

The top 3 aspects mentioned in the customer feedback are:

1. Itinerary and organization
2. Knowledgeable guides
3. Included amenities (lunch, transportation)

Exploring Prasat Thom

The ancient Prasat Thom, a relic from the Koh Ker period, stands tall amidst the Cambodian countryside. This 35-meter-high temple pyramid, built in the early 10th century, is a testament to the architectural prowess of the Khmer empire. Visitors can climb the steep steps to the top, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. While the trek may be challenging, the sense of accomplishment and the glimpse into Cambodia’s past make the effort worthwhile.

Prasat Thom
Built	10th century
Height	35 meters
Archaeological Significance	Koh Ker period capital

Discovering Koh Ker Group

Leaving the towering Prasat Thom behind, the tour now ventures deeper into the Koh Ker temple group – the former capital of the Khmer Empire during the 10th century.

This expansive archaeological site contains a remarkable collection of structures, including:

1. The seven-tiered Prasat Thom pyramid, a unique architectural feature among Khmer temples.
2. The enigmatic Garuda statue, an imposing carved figure that once guarded the ancient city.
3. The intricate carvings and bas-reliefs that adorn the temple walls, offering glimpses into Khmer history and culture.

As the tour explores this remote and rarely visited site, visitors are immersed in the grandeur of Cambodia’s past, uncovering the secrets of the Koh Ker group.

Visiting Beng Mealea

After exploring the captivating Koh Ker temple group, the tour proceeds to the remarkable Beng Mealea, a sprawling temple complex built in the late 11th century. Spanning over a square kilometer, Beng Mealea is largely overrun by vegetation, creating a mystical and untamed atmosphere. Visitors can wander through the temple’s crumbling ruins, discovering intricate carvings and hidden passageways. The site’s remote location and natural setting evoke a sense of adventure and discovery.

Feature	Description
Scale	Sprawling complex spanning over 1 sq km
Condition	Largely overrun by vegetation
Atmosphere	Mystical and untamed
Experience	Wandering through crumbling ruins and hidden passageways

The Beng Mealea temple offers a unique and immersive experience, allowing visitors to step back in time and explore the remnants of this ancient Khmer wonder.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed at the Temples?

Photography is generally allowed at the temples, though visitors should be mindful of any rules or restrictions in place. It’s best to check with the tour guide or local authorities for specific guidelines before taking photographs.

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

The best time to visit the sites is during the dry season from November to April. This offers cooler temperatures and less rainfall, providing optimal conditions for exploring the temples and temples grounds.

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

You can bring your own food and drinks on the tour, but bottled water is already included. The tour provides a lunch at a local restaurant, so you may not need to bring your own food.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?

The tour does not have any age restrictions or requirements. Travelers of all ages are welcome to participate. However, the tour may not be suitable for young children due to the extent of walking involved.

Can I Customize the Itinerary or Add Additional Stops?

While the tour itinerary is set, customers can often request minor adjustments or additional stops within the scheduled timeframe. It’s best to communicate any special interests or requests when booking to see if the tour provider can accommodate them.

Sum Up

This full-day tour offers an immersive experience exploring Cambodia’s captivating ancient Khmer heritage. From the impressive Prasat Thom pyramid to the ornate Koh Ker temples and the mystical Beng Mealea, travelers will be captivated by the rich history and architectural marvels. With knowledgeable guides and well-organized logistics, this tour provides an enriching journey through Cambodia’s remarkable past.

You can check if your dates are available here: