Prasat Beng Mealea, Preah Vihear Travel Guide

4.7 (1879)

Explore the unrestored ruins of Prasat Beng Mealea, a mysterious jungle temple from the Khmer Empire, offering a unique and adventurous experience.

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Prasat Beng Mealea

Prasat Beng Mealea, also known as the 'Jungle Temple' or 'Lotus Pond Temple,' is an unrestored 12th-century Hindu temple located approximately 40 km east of the main Angkor complex. Built by King Suryavarman II, who also constructed Angkor Wat, Beng Mealea is a sprawling complex overtaken by the jungle, offering a unique and adventurous exploration experience.

A brief summary to Prasat Beng Mealea

F6GH+6GF, ភូមិបឹងមាលា, KH

Monday 7 am-5:30 pm
Tuesday 7 am-5:30 pm
Wednesday 7 am-5:30 pm
Thursday 7 am-5:30 pm
Friday 7 am-5:30 pm
Saturday 7 am-5:30 pm
Sunday 7 am-5:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Prasat Beng Mealea.

Wear comfortable shoes suitable for climbing over uneven terrain and exploring the ruins.
Bring water and snacks, as there are no food stalls inside the temple grounds.
Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and experience the temple in a more peaceful atmosphere.
Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the temple's history and navigate the complex.
Combine your visit with other nearby attractions like Koh Ker or Kulen Mountain for a full-day adventure.

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Explore Prasat Beng Mealea on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Prasat Beng Mealea, mapped for you.

Getting There

Taxi/Car

From Siem Reap, the most common way to reach Beng Mealea is by taxi or private car. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, covering a distance of around 68 km. You can hire a taxi or car with a driver for a return trip. Negotiate the price beforehand, which should be around US$45-55 for the round trip, including a few hours of waiting time at the temple. Alternatively, you can use ride-hailing apps like Grab or PassApp to book a car. Note that a separate entrance ticket is required to enter Beng Mealea.
Tuk-Tuk

A more adventurous and budget-friendly option is to hire a tuk-tuk for the day. While cheaper, the journey will be longer (2-3 hours) and less comfortable. Negotiate the price beforehand, typically around US$30-40 for the return trip. Be prepared for a dusty ride, especially during the dry season. As with taxis, ensure the price includes waiting time at the temple and that you are aware of the separate entry fee.

Discover more about Prasat Beng Mealea

Prasat Beng Mealea offers a captivating glimpse into the grandeur of the Khmer Empire, with a sense of adventure as you explore its largely unrestored ruins. Constructed in the early 12th century during the reign of King Suryavarman II, the temple shares architectural similarities with Angkor Wat, leading some historians to believe it may have served as a prototype. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple also features Buddhist motifs, reflecting the religious influences of the time.The temple complex is a sprawling one, measuring 1.2km by 900m and was once enclosed by a large moat. Built primarily of sandstone, Beng Mealea showcases the exquisite craftsmanship of Khmer artisans. The temple's design includes galleries, libraries adorned with carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, such as the Churning of the Sea of Milk, and long balustrades formed by the bodies of the seven-headed Naga serpent.Unlike many other Angkor temples, Beng Mealea has been left largely unrestored, allowing nature to run wild. Trees and thick brush thrive amidst its towers and courtyards, with many stones lying in heaps. Exploring the temple involves traversing piles of finely chiseled sandstone blocks, passing through long, dark chambers, and navigating between hanging vines. This unrestored state gives the temple a mysterious and adventurous atmosphere, making it a unique and memorable experience.Beng Mealea was rediscovered by French explorers in the late 19th century. During the Khmer Rouge era, the temple was located in a dangerous area and was later added to UNESCO's tentative World Heritage list in 1992. Today, it is safe to visit and offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. A wooden walkway has been constructed to guide visitors through the central areas, but more adventurous explorers can venture off the path to discover hidden carvings and explore the temple's hidden corners.