Beng Mealea

Beng Melea

Beng Melea was built under King Suryavarman II, the founder of Angkor Wat in about the same period, early 12th century. It is commonly believed to be a forefunner or 'blueprint' for Angkor wat itself and is decorateed in substantially the same art style. Until recently it has remained in its collapsed state, part hidden by jungle and inaccessible due to landmines but has recently been cleared and (by CMAC -Cambodia Mines Action Center) and Halo Trusts the British Foundations and opened to the public.

Beng Melea is located quite a way from Siem Reap towards the Kulen Mountain. The road there from Siem Reap was notoriously poor and necessitated a whole days travel but has recently been much improved. Few tourists still make the effort to get to Beng Melea and it can provide an opportunity to see a huge ruinous temple in the jungle without the crowds. It is usually best to combine a trip to Beng Mealea with a visit to Kulen Mount.