Faraway Angkor Temples

Well, I have to admit that these Angkor temples aren't really that far away.

They are, however, located further than the temple groups near Angkor Wat.

Which means that the trips will be longer and that it won't be a mere 20 minute ride by Tuktuk to get to one of these temples.

Also, the temples are scattered in different directions and most of them will take about a half a day to visit. Unfortunately, that is half a day per temple. So you will need a few days if you want to visit them all.

But don't let that deter you because some of them are so worth visiting, especially Banteay Srei and Beng Melea (do not leave Cambodia without seeing these two temples!).

The Faraway Temples

Banteay Srei 'The Citadel of Woman,' touted as the prettiest temple in Cambodia. It probably has the most intricate carvings on the whole planet. Although this temple is rather small compared to the others, the workmanship on the carvings more than makes up for it.	Banteay Srei details. Unbelievably detailed carvings.
Beng Melea A large temple hidden in a jungle, far away from the city. Modeled after the 'Temple City' itself, but with much less visitors. Beng Melea is the temple for adventurers. You'll get to go under temple ruins, climb up to the roof, and pass through dark hallways. Not to be missed.	Beng Mealea, probably the most exciting temple of all.
Phnom Kulen The sacred site for Cambodian people. This is where they go on pilgrimage. Jayavarman II, one of the earliest Khmer kings, established his kingdom at this site. This is where Angkorian history begins, so to speak.	Phnom Kulen waterfalls. Photo by N. Ole
Koh Ker One of the farthest temples you can get to from Siem Reap, about 100 kilometers away. It was once the capital of the Khmer kingdom in the 920s - 940s. Due to the distance, this will be probably be an overnight trip.	Koh Ker temple. Photo by T. Wanhoff
Banteay Srei 2 A small, but charming temple on the way to Beng Melea. Large stones are scattered around and tall trees tower above it. Not much is known about this temple. There is a working modern temple and a monastery nearby.	Banteay Sreai II, a pretty, petite temple.
Ak Yum One of the first temple mountains, Ak Yum predates the 8th century (older than all other Angkorian temples). That alone is enough of a reason to visit. Unfortunately, it is in very bad condition with nothing much to be restored since it looks more like a pile of dirt and rubble than a temple.
Phnom Krom A temple on top of a hill overlooking the Tonle Sap lake. It is in bad condition.
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What Transportation to Use to Get to These Faraway Angkorian Temples?

Most of these temples are doable for a half day's visit. The exception is Koh Ker, which will most likely be an overnight trip.

Tuktuks and motobikes do go to these 'faraway' Ankor temples, although they charge a slightly higher rate due to the distance. However, you might want to consider a more comfortable means of transportation. The roads are long, and sometimes very dusty, so they're not very friendly to tuktuk passengers.

For example, the drive to Beng Melea is a long one and even using a car it took us around 2 hours to get there. That is a rather lengthy drive for a day trip, and I imagined if we were using a tuktuk it would've meant more hours and a much less pleasant and comfortable journey.

So go by car if possible, or join a small tour. It will be worth it because when you arrive at the temples you'll still be excited, in a good mood, have lots of energy, and be ready to explore. Click here to read more about transportation choices for temple visits.