Beng Mealea means "lotus in bloom" in Khmer. The temple was built in the 12th century, likely under Suryavarman II (the same king who constructed Angkor Wat), in a style very similar to its grand sibling: concentric enclosures, gopuras, cross galleries, and a dedication to Vishnu. Its dimensions are impressive — 181 meters by 152 meters for the main mandapa, with four successive enclosures.
The difference with Angkor Wat? It has never been restored. Since the site was abandoned several centuries ago, the jungle has reclaimed everything. Unlike Ta Prohm, which is 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
Visiting Beng Mealea feels like an exploration — this overused word truly comes to life here. Wooden walkways have been installed to guide visitors through piles of fallen blocks, above collapsed galleries, and between the roots of fig trees. However, the path remains largely at your discretion.
You will climb over stones, weave between vines, find yourself in dark rooms with collapsed ceilings, 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 act as impromptu 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 — partially filled with water during the rainy season, featuring water lilies
1h15 to 1h30 by van
(not Angkor pass)
daily
required
How to Get There
Beng Mealea is located 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 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes by van or car. The tuk-tuk is possible but uncomfortable over this distance (about 2 hours).
The most convenient option is to book an organized tour from Siem Reap that combines Beng Mealea with other remote sites — often Koh Ker on the same day. These excursions include air-conditioned van transport, 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.