Beng Mealea: the other” ruins of Angkor Wat

Beng Mealea: the other” ruins of Angkor Wat

Beng Mealea is an otherworldly group of ruins far from the crowds that flock to Cambodia's most famous attraction, Angkor Wat

I love playing Indiana Jones on my travels and regularly step into the role when the location seems appropriate. I did The Temple of Doom in India, The Last Crusade in Jordan, The Kingdom of the Crystal Skull on Nevis Peak.

Even though Cambodia was never a filming location for the films, Beng Mealea seemed just right for Raiders of the Lost Ark.

Unfortunately, Kia forbids me from posting videos of my stupidity on the Internet. Maybe clips of me humming the Indiana Jones theme song, jumping around in a hat, and pretending to whip things embarrass her more than I'd like to believe.

When I suggested Angelina Jolie for Angkor Wat, of course she vetoed it too. You'll just have to make do with their far less cinematic clip from Beng Mealea.

alt="Best time to visit Angkor Wat: Sunrise">Atlas & BootsCambodia's most famous attraction, Angkor Wat

Antics aside, Beng Mealea is an otherworldly group of ruins, a far cry from the crowds that flock to Cambodia's most famous landmark, Angkor Wat. When we arrived there wasn't another soul there. We stayed for a few hours and only saw two other small groups arrive.

Built around the 12th century as a Hindu temple, the site now lies in ruins - sandstone, trees and dense undergrowth intertwine to create a beautiful and atmospheric site that is impossible to capture on film. It's a bit remote - we would never have found it without our guide Bunchai from ABOUTAsia.

In recent years, some efforts have been made to improve the experience for tourists. Some of the steeper climbs introduced an odd handrail and series of steps here and there.

Even then, it feels like discovering the ruins for the first time - ideal for every man's inner Indiana Jones.

Beng Mealea: the essentials

Travel time: October to the end of April is the dry season, while May to September brings rain and humidity. The ideal months to visit Cambodia are December and January, when humidity is low and there is little rainfall – but this is also high season.

How: Beng Mealea is relatively remote, so you'll probably need a local guide or a well-informed local taxi driver to help you find the place. Stay in one of the many hotels and hostels in Siem Reap. Arrange your guide or driver the night before and get up early in the day to ensure you have the site to yourself during your visit. Leave Angkor Wat sunrise for another morning.

Cambodia's only international airport is in the capital Phnom Penh (book flights via skyscanner.net).

Mission statement: Atlas & Boots

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