Why Battambang Should Be on Your Cambodia Itinerary

Often overshadowed by Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, Battambang offers a more authentic glimpse into Cambodia’s cultural soul. This sleepy riverside city in northwest Cambodia is beloved for its French colonial architecture, thriving arts scene, scenic countryside, and quirky attractions like the Bamboo Train.
 

Far from being just a stopover, Battambang is a destination in its own right—perfect for travelers seeking a slower, more immersive Cambodian experience.

📍 Where Is Battambang?

Location: Northwest Cambodia, about 170 km from Siem Reap and 290 km from Phnom Penh.

Battambang is situated on the Sangkae River, surrounded by rice fields, limestone mountains, and rural villages. It’s well-connected by road and boat and is a key stop on many Cambodia travel routes.

🛤️ How to Get to Battambang

From Siem Reap:

Bus/van: 3–4 hours

Boat (wet season only): 6–8 hours scenic route via Tonlé Sap Lake

From Phnom Penh:

Bus/van: 5–6 hours

Train (weekends only): 8+ hours via scenic countryside

From Thailand:

Border crossing via Poipet; taxis or buses available

🗺️ Top Attractions in Battambang

🚂 1. The Bamboo Train (Norry)

A must-do quirky experience!
Originally used by locals to transport goods, the Bamboo Train is now a fun tourist ride. A wooden platform with a small motor zips through the countryside on disused rail tracks.

Duration: 20–30 minutes one way

Best for: Families, couples, and adventure-seekers

Tip: Go during golden hour for beautiful light

Note: The original bamboo train was moved to a new tourist-friendly track 20 minutes outside town.

🕍 2. Phnom Sampeau & Killing Caves

Just 12 km from Battambang, this hilltop complex is one of the region’s most significant historical and spiritual sites.

Phnom Sampeau Temple: Offers panoramic views over the countryside

Killing Caves: A tragic reminder of the Khmer Rouge era

Bat Cave: Every evening around sunset, thousands of bats pour out—an unforgettable natural spectacle

Tip: Combine your visit with a sunset tour for dramatic views.

🏯 3. Wat Banan Temple

Often called “mini Angkor Wat,” this 11th-century hilltop temple is well preserved and offers fantastic views after a steep climb of over 300 steps.

Best visited in the morning to avoid the heat

Peaceful, less crowded than temples in Siem Reap

🖼️ 4. Battambang’s Colonial Architecture

Take a walking or cycling tour through the old French Quarter:

Riverside promenade lined with colonial buildings

Former Governor’s House

Art Deco Central Market (Psar Nat)

Local galleries and cafés in restored shophouses

Tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon when the light highlights the pastel buildings.

🎨 5. Phare Ponleu Selpak – The Circus School

This nonprofit arts organization trains disadvantaged youth in visual and performing arts. Catch a show by Phare, the Cambodian Circus, a sister troupe to the one in Siem Reap.

Live shows: Several evenings a week

Acts include acrobatics, storytelling, and music

Book in advance, especially during high season

🚲 6. Village & Countryside Tours

Battambang is surrounded by lush farmland and welcoming villages. Join a local tour to explore:

Rice paddies and seasonal farming

Traditional brick-making and rice paper workshops

Palm sugar production

Cambodian cooking classes

Best way to explore: Bicycle or tuk-tuk tour with a local guide

🍽️ What to Eat in Battambang

Battambang has a growing foodie scene blending traditional Khmer food with French influence.

Must-Try Dishes:

Prahok ktis: Fermented fish paste dip with fresh vegetables

Lok lak: Stir-fried beef with pepper sauce and fried egg

Num banh chok: Khmer rice noodles with curry sauce

Popular Restaurants:

Jaan Bai – Social enterprise restaurant serving modern Khmer cuisine

Nary Kitchen – Local favorite and cooking class spot

Kinyei Café – Specialty coffee, brunch, and social impact

🛏️ Where to Stay in Battambang

Budget Options:

Lucky Hostel – Basic and clean, centrally located

Ganesha Family Guesthouse – Backpacker-friendly with a chill vibe

Mid-Range:

Battambang Resort – Peaceful retreat with pool and gardens

La Villa – Beautiful heritage hotel in a restored colonial mansion

Boutique & Luxury:

Maisons Wat Kor – Charming boutique eco-lodge with Khmer architecture

Vimean Sovannaphoum Resort – Elegant rooms and relaxing atmosphere

🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

Battambang offers handmade crafts and unique souvenirs:

Phsar Nat – Central market for textiles, spices, and street snacks

HUMAN Gallery – Photography and prints by Joséba Etxebarria

Lotus Gallery – Local paintings and artisan crafts

📅 Best Time to Visit Battambang

November to February: Cool, dry season and ideal weather

March to May: Hot and dry, countryside less green

June to October: Wet season, lush landscapes but some flooding possible

Tip: Go during the dry season for smooth travel, but wet season brings dramatic skies and fewer crowds.

🧳 Travel Tips for Battambang

Currency: Cambodian Riel (KHR) and USD both accepted

Transport: Tuk-tuks are best for short rides; rent bicycles or scooters for exploring

Language: Khmer is the local language; English is spoken in tourist areas

Connectivity: Most hotels and cafés offer free Wi-Fi

Safety: Battambang is safe for tourists, but watch for uneven sidewalks and rural road conditions

🎯 Why Visit Battambang?

If you want to experience authentic Cambodian life without the crowds, Battambang is the place. Here you’ll find:

A peaceful riverside town with a deep sense of culture

Unforgettable landscapes, temples, and historical stories

Friendly locals and immersive community experiences

Whether you're riding the bamboo train, watching bats take flight from a cave, or exploring rice paddies with a local guide, Battambang offers beauty in simplicity—and memories you won’t forget.