Battambang is a friendly city filled with handsome French colonial buildings. A picturesque riverside setting and an abundance of artsy cafes, galleries and boutique hotels make it a worthy addition to any Cambodia itinerary. Ride the famous bamboo train, visit local temples and get creative in a Khmer cooking class.
Things to do in Battambang
Climb aboard the Battambang Bamboo Train and enjoy a scenic ride through the jungle. Powered by a small engine, the flatbed train chugs along a historic railway track to a nearby village. Enjoy an ice-cold drink before reboarding for the ride back to Battambang.
Visit Phnom Sampeau at dusk and watch thousands of bats fly out of an enormous limestone cave. A steep staircase winds up to the summit of the outcrop, where you can unlock sweeping views over the surrounding countryside. On the way up, you’ll pass the Killing Caves of Phnom Sampeau, a sombre memorial dedicated to locals who lost their lives during the Khmer Rouge regime.
Discover contemporary talent at Romcheik 5 Artspace, an impressive gallery filled with works by local artists. The upstairs gallery houses the permanent collection while the downstairs space is dedicated to rotating exhibits.
From chef-driven restaurants serving French-inspired cuisine to cosy cafes specialising in plant-based fare, Battambang boasts a flourishing food scene. Don’t miss the chance to try street food favourites like “kralan” sticky rice cooked in bamboo tubes and “samlor kako” Cambodian soup. Khmer cooking classes teach you how to create your favourite dishes from scratch.
Set sail on a scenic boat trip along the Sangkae River. As you cruise along the waterway, you’ll pass emerald-green rice paddies and traditional villages with stilt houses. Kayak tours to the nearby village of Ksach Poy are a fun way to enjoy the river and experience the local lifestyle.
Getting around Battambang
Battambang is compact and easy to get around on foot or by bicycle. Tuk-tuks and motorcycle taxis are a fast and affordable way to cover longer distances. Alternatively, hire a private driver for the day or rent a scooter or motorbike. The city is a three-hour drive from Siem Reap and four hours from Phnom Penh.