Despite being the second-largest city in Cambodia, Battambang is frequently overlooked due to its sluggish reputation. Thus, this guide will highlight the top sights and provide insider recommendations to help you understand why a Battambang tour is a must-do.
Why Choose A Tour In Battambang?
Local Flavors
Battambang may not have the same level of fame as other Cambodian hotspots, but it more than makes up for it with its abundance of delicious, genuine cuisine. In the lively Phsar Nath market, sightseers may find a wide variety of street foods.
Many tourists enjoy sampling smoky barbecue skewers while relaxing on the banks of the Sangkae River. The city also boasts unique regional specialties such as bor bor phek, bai sach chrouk, kuy teav, and the sweet treat banh ja’neuk. Battambang rice, fish, and fresh veggies are the main ingredients in this porridge.
Iconic Bamboo Train Experience
An unforgettable trip awaits you on the bamboo train, one of the most famous attractions in the Battambang tour. Tourists often find themselves exhilarated as they zoom through the scenic countryside on a motorized bamboo platform, reaching speeds of up to 50 km per hour. This unique mode of transport, steered by a local guide, provides an exciting way to take in the rural landscapes that can’t be experienced anywhere else in the world.
Architectural Wonders
Beautiful pagodas dot the little town center of Battambang, which is a visual treat of French colonial architecture. But for many, Phnom Banan Temple represents the zenith of Khmer architecture. Built in the 11th century, this hilltop marvel offers panoramic views and bears a striking resemblance to Angkor Wat, but with far fewer crowds. The 350-step climb is often described as well worth the effort, rewarding visitors with an awe-inspiring and serene experience.
Journey Through History
Visitors interested in Cambodia’s complicated history can find moving historical sites in Battambang. Phnom Sampeau’s death tunnels are a gloomy reminder of the horrors committed by the Khmer Rouge in the 1970s. Visitors often report feeling deeply moved by the stark contrast between the site’s tragic history and the surrounding natural beauty, providing a profound and reflective experience.
Scenic River Adventures
Battambang may be seen from a whole new angle on a kayaking adventure down the Sangkae River. As they paddle peacefully by picturesque farms and villages, sightseers may take in the beauty of country life. Local children’s welcoming waves on the riverbanks delight many. For individuals in search of a less hectic trip, this tranquil Battambang tour provides the ideal combination of outdoor activities and cultural immersion.
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Top Things To Do In Battambang
Take On Cambodia’s Unique Railway Adventure
The bamboo train is an unmissable attraction in Battambang, especially in the morning when the weather is cooler and crowds are sparse. Historical significance as a secondary link between Vietnam and Thailand and as Cambodia’s “rice bowl” gave rise to this distinctive transportation network. When it first opened, the railway network in Cambodia and the surrounding nations made it easier to transport products and people. The development of highways and roads, however, caused these tracks to become obsolete.
A group of resourceful citizens built the “bamboo train” out of the old tracks. A little engine taken from a tractor or motorbike powers this ingenious device, which is essentially a bamboo platform on wheels. An exciting 30 minutes at speeds of up to 40 kilometers per hour are on offer on the seven-kilometer trip to and back from a neighboring community. On this thrilling journey across the countryside, passengers will see local houses, bridges, and more.
An amusing situation arises when two trains meet. Since there’s only one track, the train with fewer passengers must disassemble to allow the other to pass. Upon reaching the end, the bamboo train is taken apart and moved to adjacent tracks for the return trip.
Take A Tour Of The Wat Kor Village Khmer Historic Dwellings
Remarkable Khmer traditional wooden homes may be seen at Wat Kor Cultural Village, which is situated about 2 km south of the center of Battambang. The residences of Mrs. Bun Roeung and Khor Sang are the oldest in the region, but there are around twenty traditional dwellings here that were built over a century ago.
Thanks to the owners’ and families’ painstaking preservation efforts, these ancient buildings have survived both the French colonialism and the Khmer Rouge civil war. These dwellings showcase the true, traditional Khmer style of construction, often made from expensive wood. They have large verandas, are surrounded by orchards, and seem like something out of a bygone age.
If your timing is just right, you can be shown around the grounds by the French-speaking matriarch. Inside, you will find intriguing tales about these old homes interspersed with antique furniture, family photos, and treasures.
Visitors to Wat Kor Village will also find the day-to-day lives of the local farmers fascinating as they tend to their crops and gardens beside the Sangker River.
Embark On A Leisurely Stroll Around The Heart Of Town
Historic French colonial buildings in Central Battambang, mostly in the shophouse style, coexist with trendy cafés, galleries run by local artists, and unique boutiques. The town’s layout follows a single road that curves alongside the Sangkae River.
Through your Battambang tour, begin your walking set in the morning at the Central Market, Battambang’s bustling heart, which opens daily at 6 AM. Known locally as Psar Nat Market, it exemplifies New Khmer Architecture, a style rarely seen outside Phnom Penh. Those familiar with Phnom Penh’s Central Market or Saigon’s Ben Thanh Market will notice similarities in the Art Deco design, as all three were created by the same French architect.
The market reaches peak activity in the morning, with locals buying and selling a wide array of household items and products. To fully experience the market’s atmosphere, grab a seat at one of the small eateries inside and savor a bowl of kuy teav noodle soup, a traditional Cambodian breakfast.
Along the city’s bustling boulevards, travelers continue to see colorful stores, murals portraying prominent historical characters from the area, and attractive French colonial buildings. Stop for lunch at a top restaurant in the city before ending your half-day walking tour.
Discover The Past Of Cambodia And See Colonies Of Bats At Phnom Sampov
Phnom Sampov, Battambang’s tallest peak, holds significant religious importance across Cambodia. Situated about 11km southwest of Battambang, this site is also known as the “Killing Caves”, featuring a somber display of human skulls in its pagoda. Victims were pushed off a high cliff during the Khmer Rouge era, when the mountain was used as an execution site. Cambodia has a recent and brutal past, so tourists should be emotionally prepared to confront it.
Despite its dark past, Phnom Sampov has become a popular tourist destination, particularly for its stunning sunset views. As dusk falls, visitors witness an awe-inspiring spectacle as countless bats emerge from limestone caves in the hillside to feed, creating a dark streak across the sky like a brush of black ink. This natural phenomenon is considered a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Battambang.
Experience Wat Ek Phnom In All Its Modern And Ancient Glory
Just north of Battambang, some 13 km away, you may see the half-destroyed Hindu temple Wat Ek Phnom. The gorgeous drive through the calm Cambodian countryside is worth the 45-minute travel from the town center. The elaborately carved pediments and lintels of this crumbling temple stand out against the backdrop of a big pond.
It has mostly collapsed into ruin since it was built in the 11th century during the reign of King Sorayak Varman II (1002-1050). To cross the grounds now, tourists have to dodge big stone blocks and fallen masonry. Due to its deteriorated condition and tranquil surroundings, visitors get the impression that they have stumbled upon a long-lost temple.
On the other hand, in front of the old ruins sits Ek Phnom, a contemporary Buddhist temple. Surrounded by 18 Bodhi Trees and adorned with bright decorations, it showcases a magnificent white Buddha statue next to the modern building.
Local Khmers love to come here for picnics and pilgrimages on certain occasions since it is a sacred location.
Climb To The Peak Of Wat Banan
Those planning to spend more than a day on the Battambang tour should make time to see the old and distinctive Wat Banan. The temple, which dates back to the late 12th century, is situated around 27 miles south of the town center. Expansive rice fields surround Wat Banan, which is perched on a 400-meter-high mountain, or phnom. This archeological site has been remarkably well-preserved despite its history of plundering.
In order to reach the temple on top of the mountain, visitors must brave a steep 358 steps made of worn brick. Some have even called Banan Temple a “mini Angkor Wat” because of its five towers, the tallest of which is located in the middle. Tourists may take in stunning views of the sugar palm trees, rice terraces, and little towns that line the meandering Sangker River from the platforms of the temple. On clear days, a southern mountain range is visible, featuring a distinctive crocodile-shaped peak.
Take A Bike Ride Through Several Rural Towns
Renting a bicycle in Battambang offers an excellent opportunity to explore the region’s rural surroundings. From the town center, it’s easy to access a picturesque landscape of red dirt roads and rice fields. Whether you opt for a half-day or full-day tour, especially with a local cycling guide, you’ll gain deep insights into Khmer culture and witness authentic natural beauty.
During the tour, you will have the chance to visit local industries and workshops, observing how residents produce bamboo sticky rice, rice wine, and spring roll wrappers. With the aid of the welcoming people, you may even get the opportunity to make rice paper. To enhance the experience, a stop at a family’s house for a traditional Cambodian meal is included. These interactions will leave an impression on you that will linger long after your Battambang tour is over.
See The Phare Circus In Phare Ponleu Selpak
Phare Circus stands out as Battambang’s premier nightlife attraction. Unlike conventional animal-based circuses, this show showcases physical theater, acrobatics, gymnastics, and traditional dance. An NGO based in Cambodia has been in charge of Phare Ponleu Selpak since its inception in 1994. Through the practice of circus arts, this initiative seeks to uplift the lives of poor youngsters and children living on the streets. After six years of rigorous training, participants qualify to perform in the Battambang circus, with opportunities to appear in Siem Reap and tour globally.
The number of nights each week that performances begin at 19:00 varies with the season. Even though daily shows are available in Siem Reap, experiencing this spectacular event in Battambang, its birthplace, is truly worthwhile. All ticket proceeds go towards supporting the next generation of Cambodian artists.
Visit Romcheik 5 Artspace To Learn About Battambang’s Art Scene
Historically, Battambang was the epicenter of Cambodian art and music, earning its reputation as the country’s unofficial cultural capital. The Khmer Rouge period saw many of Battambang’s artists and intellectuals killed or forced to flee. Fortunately, after decades of gradual recovery and reconstruction, a revival is underway. Today, Battambang’s once-quiet streets are coming alive again with trendy cafes, artist-run galleries, and boutique shops.
Among the numerous galleries and studio spaces in the town center, Romcheik 5 Art Space stands out as a must-visit destination. This ambitious museum and gallery spans three floors, presenting contemporary Cambodian art. Its collections encompass folklore, religious and abstract artworks, and wooden sculptures created by local artists. Romcheik 5 has gained recognition as one of the top 10 independent art spaces in Southeast Asia and is ranked number one in Cambodia (The Guardian, November 2017).
Local Tips For The Best Battambang Tour
Best Time To Visit
The ideal period to visit Battambang spans from November to February. This time frame coincides with the dry season, offering visitors a comfortable climate with temperatures fluctuating between 18°C and 27°C. Throughout this season, the mercury typically remains close to 30°C. Travelers who choose to explore Battambang during these months enjoy optimal conditions for discovering historic sites like Wat Ek Phnom and Wat Banan temples.
How To Get There
By Train
Currently, there are no operational train services in Battambang, except for the unique bamboo train. However, plans for railway improvements are being made. For now, travelers have the option of bus services or taxis for onward journeys, with boat travel available specifically for trips to Siem Reap.
By Bus
Although the bus services in Battambang aren’t as opulent as those between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, VIP minibusses equipped with WiFi are now accessible. Standard buses are often somewhat simple and come in a wide range of prices and quality.
Frequent buses depart throughout the day from Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and intermediate stops, with limited service to Pailin. Travel times fluctuate based on road and weather conditions, but typically expect 6-7 hours from Phnom Penh and 3-4 hours from Siem Reap. Although some websites claim a 5-hour journey from Phnom Penh, this is optimistic. Minibuses can save about an hour on these routes, but be aware that seating space may be more limited than in larger buses.
Some vendors offer tickets to distant destinations like Sihanoukville, Bangkok, or Saigon. Unless it’s urgent, we recommend breaking up your journey in Phnom Penh.
Book your bus online with BookMeBus to Battambang from Phnom Penh or Siem Reap!
By Boat
A daily scenic boat journey connects Battambang and Siem Reap across the Tonle Sap and up the Sangke River. Boats depart from both locations at 7:00 every morning.
Arrival times can vary significantly depending on the boat and water levels. During the dry months of March and April, services may be suspended due to low water. Water hyacinth infestations have also been known to disrupt services, so it’s advisable to confirm departures in advance.
At peak water levels in September and October, the trip takes about 7 hours. During the dry season, it can extend to 10-12 hours or more. Note that boats generally make only one stop at a grocery store in Bak Preah floating village, so come prepared with snacks and drinks.
While the view is breathtaking, the boats may get crowded during high season. The price of the ticket ranges from about $20 to about $25 more or less, depending on where you get it.
By Other Means
Battambang connects to Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Pailin, Poipet, and all in between by shared taxis, which function similarly to bus services. You have the option to purchase individual seats or rent the complete cab. Usually, there are two seats up front and four in the rear. If you want to sit in the front row, you’ll have to pay for the whole thing. Bookings may be made via your accommodation, and tuk-tuk drivers are familiar with all the stops along the routes.
Expect to pay around 60 USD for a private taxi or 10 USD per seat in a shared taxi to Phnom Penh. For Siem Reap, it’s approximately 40 USD and 7 USD respectively.
Getting Around
Battambang has two modes of local transportation: tuk tuks and motodops. Although drivers may charge more for more than one passenger, the average cost of a tuk-tuk trip inside town is around 1 USD. Longer excursions to destinations like Sampeu or Phnom Ek, as well as day or half-day rentals, might be discussed. Aside from suggesting routes and drivers, your hotel may provide you with pricing estimates. Just keep in mind that a happy driver is more likely to go above and above, so be sure to compensate them fairly.
Gecko Cafe rents motorbikes for 7 USD per day (5 USD for half-day) and bicycles for 2 USD. Similar services and prices are available at other hotels and guesthouses. Soksabike and Today Tours on 1.5 Street, Sunrise Cafe near the main market, and BTK Bikes on Street 2.5 offer proper mountain bikes for 5-6 USD per day.
You may experience faster speeds in Battambang due to the fact that the city does not have as much traffic as Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. Be careful when you’re out and about.
Wrapping Up
Since there aren’t many tourists and the town has kept its authentic Cambodian vibe, Battambang tour is a great pick for anyone looking for a more off-the-beaten-path Cambodia experience. We hope this post will provide you with the nice activities to do, the right time to go and the useful tips to go around, so you can fully enjoy a well-prepared trip ahead!