Cambodia · UNESCO Heritage Sites

3-Day Angkor Temple Tour from Siem Reap with Koh Ker and Beng Mealea

3 Days Round trip from Angkor Thum Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore iconic temples including Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and Bayon Temple
02 Enjoy a breathtaking sunrise over Angkor Wat
03 Visit the 10th-century Koh Ker temple complex and Beng Mealea
04 Discover Ta Prohm's tree-covered ruins and serene jungle temples
05 Experience the beauty and history of Cambodia's ancient Khmer civilization

Explore the highlights of Angkor over three days, from the smiling faces of Bayon and the tree-covered ruins of Ta Prohm to the grandeur of Angkor Wat and sunset views from Phnom Bakheng. Watch a breathtaking sunrise over Angkor Wat, then continue to beautifully carved temples such as Banteay Srei, Banteay Samré, Preah Khan, and Neak Pean. Venture farther afield to the 10th-century Koh Ker temple complex and the jungle-clad ruins of Beng Mealea for a deeper look into Cambodia's ancient Khmer civilization.

Begin your day early with a breathtaking sunrise over Angkor Wat, the perfect spot to watch the sky change colors and reflect off the temple's water moat.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 3 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Siem Reap, Beng Mealea

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm and Sunset at Phnom Bakheng

Start Time: 8:00 AM
Pick-up Location: Hotel Lobby
Morning:
- South Gate of Angkor Thom: Begin the tour with a visit to the grand entrance gate of Angkor Thom, where you will see impressive stone carvings of gods and demons.
- Bayon Temple: Explore this temple, famous for its 200+ large stone faces of Avalokiteshvara, with the iconic four smiling Buddha faces on each side.
- Baphuon Temple: Visit this artificial mountain temple built during the reign of King Udayadityavarman II, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
- Royal Enclosure Wall: Admire the impressive remains of the royal palace complex, including the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King.
- Ta Nei Temple: Explore this small, serene temple surrounded by dense jungle.
- Ta Prohm Temple: Famous for the giant trees growing over the temple ruins, this temple is also where the "Tomb Raider" movie was filmed.
Lunch: Around 12:00 PM at a local restaurant near the next temple.
Afternoon:
- Angkor Wat Temple: After lunch, visit the largest religious monument in the world and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The grandeur of Angkor Wat is unmatched, and its intricate carvings and massive structure will leave you in awe.
- Phnom Bakheng: End the day with a visit to Phnom Bakheng, a hilltop temple offering a spectacular view of Angkor Wat at sunset.
Return to Hotel: Approx. 6:30 PM

Day 02

Angkor Wat Sunrise and the Grand Circuit Temples

Start Time: 4:30 AM
Pick-up Location: Hotel Lobby
Morning:
- Angkor Wat Sunrise: Begin your day early with a breathtaking sunrise over Angkor Wat, the perfect spot to watch the sky change colors and reflect off the temple's water moat.
- Return to the hotel for breakfast.
- Banteay Srei Temple: Visit this pink sandstone temple, built in the 10th century, known for its exquisite carvings and detailed artwork. Often referred to as the "Ladies' Temple," it is one of the most beautiful temples in Angkor.
- Banteay Samre Temple: Explore this large, well-preserved temple built in the 12th century, featuring detailed reliefs and quiet surroundings.
- Pre Rup Temple: Known as the "Crematorium Temple," this large temple-mountain has five towers atop three tiers, offering panoramic views of the area.
Lunch: Around 12:00 PM at a local restaurant near the next temple.
Afternoon:
- Preah Khan Temple: Visit this sacred temple built by King Jayavarman VII in the 12th century. The temple is dedicated to the king's father and features beautiful carvings and towering structures.
- Neak Pean Temple: A unique small island temple built in the center of a large artificial lake, this peaceful location was once used for ritual cleansing.
- Ta Som Temple: Explore this small, picturesque temple surrounded by nature and overgrown trees.
- East Mebon Temple: A stunning temple-mountain located in the middle of a large artificial reservoir, featuring five brick towers and elaborate carvings.
Return to Hotel: Approx. 6:00 PM

Day 03

Koh Ker, Beng Mealea and the Rolous Temples

Start Time: 8:00 AM
Pick-up Location: Hotel Lobby
Morning:
- Koh Ker Temple Complex: Embark on a long drive (approximately 2-3 hours) to reach the Koh Ker temple complex, a 10th-century site that was once the capital of the Khmer Empire. The main highlight is the Koh Ker Temple, a seven-tiered pyramid. You will also visit Prasat Krahom (the Red Temple), known for its stone carvings, and Prasat Pram, a temple enveloped by strangler figs.
- Explore the dense jungle surroundings and take in the historic ruins and the area's tranquil atmosphere.
Lunch: Around 12:00 PM at a local restaurant near the next temple.
Afternoon:
- Beng Mealea Temple: Explore this overgrown temple, which is in a state of disrepair due to years of warfare and natural disasters. It is often referred to as the "Indiana Jones Temple" because of its wild and dramatic appearance.
- Rolous Group of Temples: Visit the three temples in the Rolous group:
  - Lolei Temple: A small but beautifully restored temple.
  - Prasat Kror: Known for its large sandstone towers and intricate carvings.
  - Bakong Temple: An artificial mountain temple with impressive stonework and lush surroundings.
Return to Hotel: Approx. 5:00 PM

Where this trip takes you

Angkor Wat sunrise, Bayon carved faces, Ta Prohm tree-clad ruins, Koh Ker Temple Complex

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Angkor Thum 2 cities · 3 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

English tour guide
A/C car, van, or bus with driver
Parking fees and road tolls
Cool drinking water and towels
Hotel pick-up and drop-off

What's Not Included

Temple pass: 1 day = $37 per person, 3 days = $62 per person, 7 days = $72 per person
Koh Ker ticket: $15 per person
Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner

What to bring

Camera
Hat
Suitable walking shoes

Know before you go

Please note that you must dress appropriately when visiting certain temples, including Angkor Wat, Ba Phnom, and Phnom Bakheng, especially if you plan to climb them.
Your pants or skirt should cover your knees, and your shirt should not be sleeveless. Make sure your shirt covers your shoulders, not just a bra; otherwise, you will not be allowed to enter.
Walking shoes are recommended.
Light cotton clothing is also recommended for the weather from March to July, as it is very hot with high humidity.
We suggest you bring your camera charger so you can recharge it during your lunch break at the restaurant.

Logistics