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Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI) → Beng Mealea temple transfer

Beng Mealea is the closest major temple to Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport: 17 km away, about 29–37 minutes by private car. A car for up to three people usually costs around €20–30 and a minivan for up to seven around €30–45; the exact price is shown before you book.

From
Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI)
To
Beng Mealea temple
Distance
17 km
Typical drive
29–37 min

Because the new airport lies east of Siem Reap, this jungle temple is now easier to reach on arrival or departure day than from town.

A temple swallowed by the forest

Beng Mealea is a large 12th-century sandstone complex that was never restored. Collapsed galleries, moss-covered blocks and tree roots growing through the walls give it a rougher, more atmospheric feel than the cleaned-up temples of the main Angkor circuit. Wooden walkways lead through parts of the ruin, and the site sits on the edge of the Phnom Kulen area, east of the main park.

Entry requires its own ticket bought at the site; it is separate from the Angkor pass.

The short drive

From the terminal the route runs through quiet countryside with small villages, rice fields and roadside stalls. There is little traffic compared with the roads into Siem Reap, so the half-hour estimate is usually reliable.

Using Beng Mealea as a stopover

On arrival day
Visit after landing and continue to Siem Reap later with a separate booking. Keep luggage manageable, because the car does not wait as part of this one-way ride.
On departure day
Visit in the morning and book a separate short ride back to the airport, leaving at least two and a half hours before your flight.
With Phnom Kulen
Both sites lie in the same direction. Visit Kulen in the morning because of its one-way road timing, then Beng Mealea in the afternoon.

Frequently asked questions

How far is Beng Mealea from SAI airport?

It is about 17 km, a drive of roughly 29–37 minutes. That makes it much closer to the new airport than to Siem Reap town.

Is Beng Mealea included in the Angkor pass?

No. Beng Mealea has its own entry ticket, sold at the site. The transfer price covers only the private vehicle.

Can I travel with my suitcases to the temple?

You can, but there are no left-luggage facilities to rely on. It works best if you arrange your onward transfer so the bags stay with a vehicle.

When is the best time of day to visit?

Early morning and late afternoon are cooler and calmer. In the rainy season, roughly June to October, the forest is greener but paths can be muddy.

How long do people usually spend at Beng Mealea?

Most visitors spend one to two hours exploring the ruins. Photographers and those who like to climb over the stones often stay longer.

More transfers from Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport

Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport: arrival and transfer guide