Explore Battambang
The Ultimate Travel Guide • 13 Destinations
The Bamboo Train (Norry)
Ride the famous 'Norry'—a bamboo platform powered by a small engine—racing through rice fields at 30km/h.
There are two bamboo trains now. Go to the original one at O Dambong for a more rustic experience.
Located 4km southeast of the city. Any tuk-tuk driver knows the way.
Phnom Sampov Bat Caves
A hill featuring the tragic Killing Caves and a summit pagoda. At 5:30 PM, millions of bats fly out of the cave in a dark stream.
Arrive at 4:30 PM to hike the mountain first, then sit at the base with a beer to watch the bats at sunset.
Located 12km southwest of town along the river road.
Phare Ponleu Selpak Circus
World-class acrobatics, visual arts, and theater. This is the original school where the famous Phare circus began.
Shows are not every night (usually Mon, Thu, Sat). Check their schedule online. Arrive early to visit the art gallery.
Located on the road to Phnom Penh, just outside the city center.
Wat Banan
Often called 'Mini Angkor Wat.' Climb 358 stone steps to reach five ancient towers offering 360-degree views.
It is a steep climb! Bring water. There is a small cave at the bottom (L'Ang Buth) worth a quick look.
Located 20km south of town. Combine it with the Bat Caves for a full afternoon.
Wat Kor Heritage Village
Walk through a village of traditional hardwood houses that survived the war.
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Countryside Cycling
See rice paper making, dried bananas, and local life on two wheels.
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Ek Phnom Temple
11th-century ruins located next to a massive modern white Buddha statue.
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Kamping Puoy Lake
A massive reservoir full of lotus flowers, perfect for boat rides and picnics.
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Colonial Walking Tour
Admire the best-preserved French colonial architecture in the country.
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Romcheik 5 Art Space
The best modern art museum in provincial Cambodia. Founded by four young local artists, it displays incredible sculptures and paintings. Also features a rooftop café.
The view from the rooftop at sunset, looking over the river and the city, is one of the best kept secrets in Battambang.
Located on the east bank of the river, just 1.5km south of the central market. Look for the building covered in metal sheets.
Prasat Snung
Three brick sanctuaries built on a small hill. What makes this special is that the ancient ruins are located directly inside the grounds of a very active modern school and pagoda.
The monks here are very friendly and often invite tourists for tea. Dress respectfully (cover shoulders/knees).
Located 22km southwest of Battambang. It is on the way to Kamping Puoy reservoir, making it a perfect quick stop.
Well of Shadows
A somber memorial to the Khmer Rouge era. It features a stupa filled with skulls and bas-relief carvings depicting the history of the regime.
It is a quiet and emotional site. It is much less visited than the Killing Caves, offering a more private space for reflection.
Located 6km north of Battambang, near the Ek Phnom temple route.
Psar Nat (Central Market)
An Art Deco architectural gem built by the French. It is the beating heart of the city, selling everything from gold and gems to fresh fish and vegetables.
Go to the food section in the center at 7:00 AM for the best 'Bai Sach Chrouk' (Pork and Rice) breakfast in town.
Right in the center of town. You cannot miss the big yellow clock tower nearby.
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