1. What are the best outdoor activities to do around Beng Mealea, Siem Reap?
Some of the best outdoor activities to do around Beng Mealea, Siem Reap include:
1. Exploring the ancient temple of Beng Mealea: This temple is located in the jungle and provides a unique and adventurous experience. You can hire a guide or explore on your own.
2. Visiting Kulen Mountain National Park: This park offers various activities such as hiking, swimming in waterfalls, and visiting ancient temples.
3. Going on a boat ride on Tonle Sap Lake: You can take a boat tour to see floating villages, witness the local way of life, and spot various species of birds and wildlife.
4. Cycling in rural villages: Renting a bike and exploring the peaceful countryside around Beng Mealea is a great way to get off the beaten path and immerse yourself in Cambodian culture.
5. Zip-lining at Flight of the Gibbon Angkor: This treetop adventure park allows you to zip-line through the jungle canopy while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding area.
6. Hot air balloon ride over Siem Reap: For a unique perspective of Siem Reap and its surroundings, consider taking a hot air balloon ride at sunrise or sunset.
7. Horseback riding through rice fields: Explore rural areas around Beng Mealea on horseback, passing through lush green rice paddies and picturesque villages.
8. Watching sunset at Phnom Krom Mountain: Hike up this mountain for panoramic views of Tonle Sap Lake and enjoy a beautiful sunset from above.
9. Taking an ATV tour through countryside trails: Roam through dirt roads and muddy tracks on an ATV tour that takes you past local villages and scenic landscapes.
10. Birdwatching at Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary: Take a guided tour to this sanctuary to see hundreds of species of exotic birds in their natural habitat.
2. How far is Beng Mealea from Siem Reap and what is the best way to get there?
Beng Mealea is located approximately 40 kilometers east of Siem Reap in Cambodia. The best way to get there is by hiring a private car or joining a guided tour. It takes around 1-2 hours to reach Beng Mealea from Siem Reap, depending on traffic conditions.
3. Is it safe to explore Beng Mealea on your own or should you hire a guide?
It is generally safe to explore Beng Mealea on your own, but hiring a guide can provide a more informative and organized experience.
4. What is the best time of the year to visit Beng Mealea and participate in outdoor activities?
The best time of the year to visit Beng Mealea and participate in outdoor activities is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. This time of year offers pleasant weather and minimal chance of rain, making it ideal for exploring the ancient temple ruins and partaking in outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
5. Can I camp overnight at or near Beng Mealea?
Yes, overnight camping at or near Beng Mealea is allowed.
6. Are there any restrictions for climbing on top of the temples at Beng Mealea?
Yes, there are restrictions for climbing on top of the temples at Beng Mealea. Visitors are not allowed to climb on top of the temples as it can damage the fragile structures and poses a safety hazard. It is important to respect these restrictions in order to preserve the historical and cultural significance of the temple.
7. Are there any water activities available at or near Beng Mealea, such as kayaking or rafting?
Yes, there are water activities available at or near Beng Mealea. These include kayaking and rafting along the nearby rivers and lakes. Some tour companies also offer guided tours that combine visits to Beng Mealea with water activities such as river tubing or SUP (stand-up paddleboarding). However, it’s always best to check beforehand as availability may depend on season and weather conditions.
8. What kind of wildlife can be seen in the surrounding areas of Beng Mealea?
The surrounding areas of Beng Mealea are home to a variety of wildlife, including various bird species such as storks and eagles, as well as reptiles like snakes and lizards. You may also encounter larger mammals such as deer, wild boars, and monkeys.
9. How long does it take to fully explore and see all of Beng Mealea’s temples and ruins?
The time it takes to fully explore and see all of Beng Mealea’s temples and ruins will vary depending on a person’s pace and level of interest. However, on average, it can take around 2-3 hours to see the main areas and structures of Beng Mealea. If one wants to thoroughly explore every nook and cranny, it may take up to 4-5 hours.
10. Are there any bike trails or off-road cycling routes around Beng Mealea, Siem Reap?
Yes, there are several bike trails and off-road cycling routes around Beng Mealea in Siem Reap. One popular option is the Beng Mealea Temple Trail, which takes cyclists through scenic villages and rice paddies before arriving at the temple site itself. Another popular route is the Kulen Mountain Trail, which offers more challenging terrain and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Additionally, many tour companies offer guided off-road cycling adventures around Beng Mealea for those looking for a more immersive experience.
11. Is there a fee to enter Beng Mealea and how much does it cost?
Yes, there is a fee to enter Beng Mealea. As of 2020, the entrance fee for foreigners is $5 USD per person.
12. Can you also visit nearby temples such as Angkor Wat and Ta Prohm while staying in Beng Mealea?
Yes, it is possible to visit both Angkor Wat and Ta Prohm temples while staying in Beng Mealea. They are located within close proximity to each other and can be easily accessed by car or tuk-tuk. Alternatively, many tour companies offer combined tours of these sites.
13. Are there any organized tour groups that offer outdoor activities in conjunction with visiting Beng Mealea?
Yes, there are organized tour groups that offer outdoor activities in conjunction with visiting Beng Mealea.
14. Is camping equipment available for rent near Bengal Creek, Siem Reap for those who want to camp overnight?
Yes, camping equipment is available for rent near Bengal Creek in Siem Reap.
15. What are some popular hikes or nature walks that can be done from Beng Mealea, Siem Reap?
Some popular hikes or nature walks that can be done from Beng Mealea, Siem Reap are: 1. Phnom Kulen National Park – This national park has several hiking trails that lead to waterfalls, temples, and scenic viewpoints.
2. Kbal Spean – This hike takes you through a lush forest to a series of ancient Hindu carvings on the riverbed.
3. Banteay Srei Butterfly Centre – This nature walk allows you to see a variety of colorful butterflies in their natural habitat.
4. Preah Khan Temple – A hike through the surrounding forest will take you to this beautiful temple with stunning carvings and architecture.
5. Tonle Sap Lake – Explore the floating villages and unique ecosystem of this large freshwater lake on a guided nature walk.
6. Angkor Archaeological Park – The park has many walking paths that can lead you to hidden temples and lesser-known areas away from the crowds.
7. Kulen Mountain Summit Trail – For more experienced hikers, this challenging trail leads to the top of Phnom Kulen mountain, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
8. Kampong Phluk Floating Village – Take a boat ride and walk through this fascinating floating village nestled in the mangrove forest along Tonle Sap lake.
9. Chau Srei Vibol Temple Trek – This off-the-beaten-path hike takes you through traditional local villages and dense jungle to discover the ancient ruins of Chau Srei Vibol temple.
10. Angkor Zipline Canopy Tour – For an adventurous nature experience, try ziplining over the Cambodian rainforest and seeing its diverse flora and fauna up close.
16. Are there any cultural experiences or interactions with local communities that can be arranged while exploring the area around Beng Mealea?
Yes, there are several cultural experiences and interactions that can be arranged while exploring the area around Beng Mealea. One option is to visit local villages and meet with members of the community, learning about their daily life and traditions. Another option is to participate in a homestay program, where visitors can stay with a local family and experience their way of life firsthand. There are also opportunities to attend traditional performances and festivals, as well as workshops on traditional crafts like weaving or pottery. These experiences offer a unique perspective on the culture and history of the region.
17. In addition to Angkor Wat, what other historical sites can be visited while in Beng Mealea?
Some other historical sites that can be visited while in Beng Mealea include the Banteay Srei temple, Bayon temple, Ta Prohm temple, and Preah Khan temple.
18.Can you swim in the moat surrounding Beng Mealea?
Yes, you can swim in the moat surrounding Beng Mealea.
19. Is it possible to do a hot air balloon ride over Beng Mealea and the surrounding countryside?
Yes, it is possible to do a hot air balloon ride over Beng Mealea and the surrounding countryside.
20. What are some recommended restaurants or places to eat near Beng Mealea, Siem Reap?
1. Palmboo Restaurant
2. Angkor Wat Restaurant
3. The Common Tiger
4. Chamkar Vegetarian Restaurant
5. Marum
6. Cuisine Wat Damnak
7. Mie Cafe
8. Mahob Buos Khmer Food & Culture Center
9. Khmer Grill Restaurant & Bar
10. New Leaf Eatery