_{Koh Ker-Pyramid And Beng Mealea Temple Tour Itinerary} 

_{This itinerary offers a perfect blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty, giving visitors a unique experience beyond Angkor Wat.}

7:30 AM – Departure from Siem Reap: after breakfast, we will pick you up from your hotel. First, we’ll assist you in purchasing your Angkor pass, and then we’ll begin our tour. Begin the day with an early start from Siem Reap. It’s a 2-hour scenic drive to the Koh Ker temple complex. 

 9:30 AM – Arrival at Koh Ker Group

Explore the mystical and remote Koh Ker temple complex, once the capital of the Khmer Empire. This site is known for its unique architecture, grand pyramid, and impressive carvings. The highlight temples to visit include:

PRASAT PRAM

Duration: 30 minutes

Feature: Known for its towers overgrown with jungle vines and trees, Prasat Pram is a blend of nature and ruins—a photographer’s dream. A group of small towers covered in vines and trees, with walls of dark stone that contrast beautifully with the green jungle.

Highlight: Prasat Pram is one of the most photographed spots at Koh Ker, known for its towers overtaken by nature, giving it an almost surreal, “lost in the jungle” appearance.

PRASAT NEANG KHMAO (Temple of the Black Virgin)

Duration: 30 minutes

Feature: Named after a black statue of the goddess Neang Kmao (meaning “Black Virgin”), this temple consists of two tall, dark stone towers.

Highlight: The unique color of the stone, combined with the weathered, overgrown appearance, gives Prasat Neang Kmao an air of mystery and legend. The site reflects the mix of Hindu and animist influences that define Koh Ker, offering a hauntingly beautiful and lesser-known corner of the complex.

PRASAT THOM (Pyramid Temple)

Duration: 1 hour

Feature: A seven-tiered pyramid rising 36 meters, offering panoramic views of the surrounding jungle. This is a must-see and a great spot for photos.

Highlight: The highest point offers stunning, panoramic views of the surrounding jungle. Climbing to the top is a thrilling experience and an excellent photo opportunity.

Lunch Break: at a local restaurant near the Koh Ker site. This is a great time to relax and take in the rural scenery of Cambodia. Recommended Duration: 1 hour

PRASAT LINGAS AND LINGAM SHRINE

Duration: 15 minutes

Feature: A small but unique shrine containing lingams, representing Hindu symbols of fertility. A shrine dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, with a series of lingams (symbolic representations of Shiva).

Highlight: This shrine showcases the religious importance of Koh Ker as a former Khmer capital, providing insight into Hindu influences on Khmer culture and religion.

PRASAT KRA CHAB

Duration: 15 minutes

Feature: Prasat Kra Chab is a small but intriguing temple featuring delicate carvings and a design that exemplifies the architectural diversity of Koh Ker.

Highlight: Its compact size makes it easy to explore, and the carvings on the lintels and door frames reveal intricate, well-preserved details. Prasat Kra Chab is a quieter temple, ideal for those interested in studying Khmer artistry without large crowds.

PRASAT DOMREI (Elephant Temple)

Duration: 30 minutes

Feature: Named after the statues of elephants (domrei) that once guarded the temple, this structure is partially in ruins but still showcases remnants of its original elephant sculptures.

Highlight: The elephant statues, though weathered, give a unique character to the temple and are symbols of strength and protection in Khmer culture. This temple is a great spot to appreciate the interplay of art, nature, and ancient Khmer beliefs.

Total Time at Koh Ker Group: ~3 hours

1:30 PM – Depart for Beng Mealea Temple, a jungle-covered temple about 1 hour from Koh Ker.

Please note: To visit Beng Mealea Temple, you will need to purchase a 1-day Angkor Pass for $37 USD per adult.

2:30 PM – Arrival at Beng Mealea Temple

Beng Mealea is a sprawling, partially ruined temple covered in thick vines, moss, and lush vegetation. It offers a wild and immersive experience of Angkorian architecture. Main Temple Structure

Duration: 1 hour

Walk along wooden walkways and explore collapsed corridors, hidden shrines, and the intricately carved sandstone walls. Your guide can help you understand the historical and religious significance of the bas-reliefs. Outer Moat & Jungle Surroundings

Duration: 30 minutes

Wander through the ancient moat area and outer grounds. Beng Mealea is particularly special for those who enjoy nature intertwined with architecture.

Total Time at Beng Mealea: ~1.5 hours

4:00 PM – Departure Back to Siem Reap

Start the journey back to Siem Reap, enjoying the countryside views.

5:30 PM – Arrival in Siem Reap

You’ll arrive back in Siem Reap by late afternoon, in time for dinner or evening plans.