Delight in exploring the local landscapes, engage in local events, and enjoy the stunning remote temple atop Dong Rek mountain, Preah Vihear temple. Discover the Koh Ker temple and the magnificent jungle temple of Beng Mealea. Escape the hordes of tourists by visiting these uniquely off-the-beaten-path temples.
- Preah Vihear Temple - After we meet at the hotel, we will head to Preah Vihear. The journey takes about 3 hours from Siem Reap city. Along the way, our licensed tour guide will share interesting insights about local life, plantations, and Cambodian history.
Preah Vihear is beautifully situated along the Cambodia-Thailand border and was listed as a World Heritage site in 2008. This listing led to a conflict between the Cambodian and Thai armies over territory and the temple. The conflict began in 2008 and ended in 2011 when Cambodia won at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Preah Vihear was constructed by three kings over a span of more than 300 years: Yasovarman I (889-910) in 893, Suryavarman I (1002-1049), and finally completed by King Suryavarman II (1113-1150), who is also known for building Angkor Wat. The temple is located atop Dangrek Mountain, 550 meters high.
The temple’s primary purpose is as a mountain temple, symbolizing the sacred mountain “Meru,” the abode of all Hindu gods.
- Koh Ker Temple - After visiting Preah Vihear, we will proceed to Koh Ker, which takes about 2 hours. Along the way, we will see various local plantations such as tapioca, mango, pepper, and banana.
Koh Ker was an ancient Khmer capital city from 921 to 944, established by King Jayavarman IV and later ruled by his son Harshavarman II. Known as the Cambodian Pyramid temple, it stands 36 meters high with an impressive shrine featuring two-meter-high Lingas at the top. Our guide will provide more details about these temples during the tour. You can climb to the top for a stunning view and fresh air. After Koh Ker, we will visit Prasat Pram, known for its five towers with trees growing atop them. Koh Ker is a quiet, off-the-beaten-path destination.
- Beng Mealea - After Koh Ker, we will head to our final destination, Beng Mealea, which is about an hour’s drive away.
Beng Mealea was originally built as a Hindu temple, though some carvings depict Buddhist motifs. Made primarily of sandstone, the temple remains largely unrestored, with trees and thick brush thriving among its towers and courtyards, and many stones lying in heaps. It was once difficult to reach, but a recently built road to the Koh Ker temple complex has made it more accessible. Beng Mealea is 77 km from Siem Reap by road.
The temple’s history is unknown, but its architectural style is identical to Angkor Wat, leading scholars to believe it was built during the reign of King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century.
- Bottled Water
- Professional Driver
- Exclusive Private Tour
- Licensed Tour Guide
- entrance ticket
- Everything not mentioned are excluded
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
