Koh Ker, Beng Mealea, and Roluos Group temples exploration
ID: GYG738783-1196803
Category:
Country: Cambodia
Duration:
09:00 hours
Description
This tour allows you to Explore Koh Ker’s 36-meter-high Prasat Thom pyramid, Beng Mealea’s adventurous, overgrown ruins, and the Roluos Group’s ancient Bakong temple.
Koh Ker, Beng Mealea, and the Roluos Group temples
Koh Ker
Koh Ker was the capital of the Khmer Empire for a brief period (928-944 AD). It is located about 120 kilometers northeast of Angkor. The site is known for its unique pyramid-shaped temple, Prasat Thom, which rises 36 meters high. The area has over 180 temples, though many are still overgrown with jungle.
Beng Mealea
Beng Mealea is a temple located 40 kilometers east of Angkor Wat, built in the early 12th century under King Suryavarman II. It is largely unrestored, with trees and thick brush thriving amidst its ruins, giving it a mystical, untamed feel. Its layout is similar to Angkor Wat but on a smaller scale.
Roluos Group
The Roluos Group is a collection of temples about 13 kilometers east of Siem Reap. These temples were built in the late 9th century and are among the earliest large-scale stone temples of the Khmer Empire. The main temples in this group are:
- Bakong: A pyramid temple mountain dedicated to Shiva, serving as a prototype for later temples.
- Preah Ko: Known for its three towers adorned with sandstone carvings.
- Lolei: Built on an island in a now-dry baray (reservoir), featuring intricate carvings and inscriptions.
Tour Itinerary
1. Morning Departure: Start early from Siem Reap, heading first to Koh Ker, which takes about 2-3 hours by car.
2. Explore Koh Ker: Spend a few hours exploring the pyramid temple Prasat Thom and several other nearby temples.
3. Lunch Break: Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant.
4. Beng Mealea: Head to Beng Mealea, a 1-1.5 hour drive from Koh Ker. Explore the overgrown ruins for 1-2 hours.
5. Roluos Group: On the way back to Siem Reap, stop by the Roluos Group temples. Spend about 1-2 hours visiting Bakong, Preah Ko, and Lolei.
6. Return to Siem Reap: Arrive back in Siem Reap by late afternoon or early evening.
Tips for the Tour
- Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable walking shoes and light, breathable clothing.
- Hydration: Bring plenty of water, as it can get hot and humid.
- Guided Tour: Consider hiring a guide for detailed historical and cultural insights.
- Photography: Don’t forget your camera or smartphone to capture the stunning ruins and landscapes.
Highlights
- Koh Ker: Discover the unique 36-meter-high Prasat Thom pyramid temple.
- Experience the adventurous, overgrown ruins reminiscent of a "lost temple.
- Roluos Group: Visit the early Khmer temples, including the impressive Bakong.
- Travel by private comfortable air-con vehicle and professional guide.
Guiding languages
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.