Banteay Srei and Beng Mealea Full Day Tour

One of our favorite experiences in Siem Reap that gets you out to the Cambodian countryside to Beng Mealea, a sprawling jungle temple. Enjoy a delicious lunch before heading on to Banteay Srei temple which is made from beautiful red sand-stone.

Area

Siem Reap & Angkor Wat

Type

Active

Wildlife & Nature

Grade

Standard

Who

Adults

Older Kids

Difficulty

Moderate

Duration

Half Day

Depart on a pleasant drive of about 1.5 hours through the Cambodian countryside to Beng Mealea, a sprawling jungle temple constructed in a distinctly Angkor Wat style by King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century. It preceded and may have served as a prototype for Angkor Wat. Contrary to Angkor, few carvings or bas-reliefs are evident. Today the temple is largely overrun by vegetation and the stone walls are crumbling, which really adds to its charm in a unique way.

Accessibility has improved as elevated walkways have been set up throughout most of the temple, although to see all corners does require a sense of adventure as you will need to climb over stone blocks or walk through narrow passageways. Drive on for lunch in a traditional Cambodian restaurant. Then head to Banteay Srei temple. This red sand-stone temple is one of Angkor’s most significant structures as its walls are decorated with elaborate carvings which have been preserved remarkably well. They provide an excellent into the Angkor civilization and their beliefs. It was built in the 10th century and was dedicated to the Hindu god, Shiva.

Recommended Hotels Nearby

A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.

Viroth's Hotel

For modernist architecture with a tropical twist, jewel-toned vintage-styled Scandinavian furniture and a hip but friendly vibe, check in to Viroth’s Hotel. A firm favorite with the design-conscious, Viroth’s evokes the ex-pat glamour of a bygone age.

View Accommodation
Amansara

Occupying what was once the 1960's guest villa of Cambodia's retired king, Amansara is exclusive, luxurious and tranquil – the perfect retreat after a day's sightseeing offering fantastic service, delicious cuisine and luxury accommodation.

View Accommodation
Zannier Hotel Phum Baitang

Phum Baitang, which means 'Green Village' in Khmer is one of Siem Reap's most luxurious and elegant hideaways, with just 45 spacious stilted villas that are wrapped in luminous greenery and finished with high quality interiors.

View Accommodation
Shinta Mani Angkor & Bensley Collection Pool Villas

Shinta Mani Angkor & Bensley Collection Pool Villas is a fantastic option for those wanting a super slick and stylish boutique hotel in a great location, just a 15-minute drive from Angkor Wat.

View Accommodation

More Experiences in This Area

Discover more things to do in the area and chat to our specialists about crafting these experiences into your tailor-made holiday.

Quad Biking in Siem Reap

Quad bike through the countryside surrounding Siem Reap for an alternative view of Cambodia.

View Experience
Temples of the Forest

This fantastic tour is geared around avoiding the crowds, getting you to Ta Prohm, Ta Nei and Ta Keo at the quietest time of day. Ensconced in jungle, these temples are ideal for adventurous families and couples wanting an Indiana Jones experience!

View Experience
Hidden Temple Trek

Visit some of Angkor's hidden temples on this afternoon hike through Angkor Archaeological Park. Starting at Angkor Thom follow the walls to pass through Angkor Krau. Through paddy fields you will end at Prasat Banteay Thom where sunset drinks await.

View Experience
Phare - The Cambodian Circus

Top of Siem Reap's to do list is the amazing and moving Phare, Cambodian Circus. Watch these talented young performers in a breathtakingly entertaining and original show. This hour-long show has a variety of performances to enjoy.

View Experience
Angkor Wat at Sunrise

Experience the majesty of Angkor Wat with a short sunrise tour, the best time to visit this ancient monument and one of Southeast Asia's most important archaeological sites.

View Experience
Tonle Sap on Ella (private boat)

Experience the Tonle Sap in style! Our wonderful wooden boat, Ella, has been designed from scratch to experience the wildlife and absorb the unique floating villages on the margins of the lake.

View Experience
Khmer Discovery Dining Experience

Spend the evening sampling mouth-watering dishes at three of Siem Reap's finest restaurants. Travel between the restaurants by private tuk tuk, and enjoy a course at each stop. This is the perfect way to try some of the best cuisine Cambodia has to offer.

View Experience
Angkor Thom Scavenger Hunt by Bicycle

Exclusive to Scott Dunn and ideal for the whole family, this unique experience takes you through Angkor Thom on an adventurous photo scavenger hunt. You'll have 11 different clues peppered across the ancient temples. Success will be awarded at the end!

View Experience
Explore Angkor Thom

This is one of our favorite half-day experiences from Siem Reap.

View Experience