Situated about 40 kilometers east of the main Angkor area, Beng Mealea is a sprawling temple complex that dates back to the 12th century. It is often referred to as the “jungle temple” due to the dense jungle vegetation that surrounds and intertwines with its ancient stone structures.

Said to date back to the 12th century, Beng Mealea is a sandstone temple that replicates the design of the iconic Angkor Wat. The temple grounds are surrounded by a gigantic moat that was once entirely consumed by jungle; if you enter from the south side, you’ll find yourself amid haphazard sandstone blocks and creeping vines.

Beng Mealea is a very impressive temple built in the reign of King Suryavarman II, 12th century CE, and modified by Jayavarman VII. It is located in Beng Mealea village, Beng Mealea commune, Svay Leu District, Siem Reap province. It is about 77 Km Northwest of Siem Reap town and faces the eastern part of Kulen mountain on one side.

Beng Mealea (Khmer: ប្រាសាទបឹងមាលា, Prasat Boĕng Méaléa [ɓəŋ miəliə], "Temple of Lotus Pond"), or Boeng Mealea, is a temple from the Angkor Wat period : 118–119 located 40 km (25 mi) east of the main group of temples at Angkor, Cambodia, on the ancient royal highway to Preah Khan Kompong Svay.

Beng Mealea (its name means "lotus pond") is a temple in the style located 40 km east of the main group of temples at Angkor, Cambodia, on the ancient royal highway to Preah Khan Kompong Svay. It was built as hinduist temple, but there are some carvings depicting buddhist motifs.