Beng Mealea means "the lotus in bloom" in Khmer. The temple was built in the 12th century, probably under Suryavarman II (the same king who constructed Angkor Wat), in a style very similar to its big brother: concentric enclosures, gopuras, cross galleries, dedication to Vishnu. Its dimensions are impressive — 181 meters by 152 meters for the main mandapa, with four successive enclosures.
The difference from Angkor Wat? It has never been restored. Since the site was abandoned several centuries ago, the jungle has reclaimed everything. And unlike Ta Prohm, maintained in a state of "controlled jungle" for tourists, Beng Mealea still resembles what Angkor must have looked like when Henri Mouhot "rediscovered" it in 1860.
What you will experience
A visit to Beng Mealea feels like an exploration — this often overused word takes on its full meaning here. Wooden walkways have been installed to guide visitors through piles of fallen blocks, above collapsed galleries, and between the roots of fig trees. But the route remains largely left to your initiative.
You will climb over stones, weave between vines, find yourself in dark rooms where the ceiling has collapsed, and step on blocks covered in damp moss. It’s physical, sometimes a bit acrobatic, but never dangerous if you are attentive. Local guardians can improvise as guides — their knowledge of the site (including rarely visited areas) is often invaluable.
Must-see areas
- The northeast gallery — the most intact, with legible bas-reliefs depicting the Churning of the Ocean of Milk
- The central mandapa — at the heart of the temple, the collapsed towers create an extraordinary chaos of stones
- The southwest library — a building still partially standing, covered in vegetation, accessible via a walkway
- The outer moats — during the rainy season, partially filled with water, featuring water lilies
1h15 to 1h30 by van
(not Angkor pass)
daily
required
How to get there
Beng Mealea is 68 km east of Siem Reap, on the road to Koh Ker. National Road 6 followed by a turn onto Route 66 offers a journey of about 1h15-1h30 by van or car. The tuk-tuk is possible but uncomfortable over this distance (approximately 2 hours).
The most practical option is to book a guided tour from Siem Reap that combines Beng Mealea with other remote sites — often Koh Ker on the same day. These excursions include transportation in an air-conditioned van, a guide, and sometimes lunch.
Guided day trips combining Beng Mealea and Koh Ker, air-conditioned van and English-speaking guide. From about 40 USD per person.
Frequently asked questions
No. Beng Mealea has a separate 5 USD entry fee. Transport from Siem Reap adds 40–60 USD return by tuk-tuk or ~20–30 USD per person in a shared van via a tour.
Yes, without hesitation if you've already visited Angkor's main temples. One of Cambodia's most impressive and least crowded sites.
Yes. Both are often combined in the same excursion — Beng Mealea at 68 km, Koh Ker at 120 km. Organised van tours run from Siem Reap.