Battambang Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Battambang, Cambodia with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best attractions, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Battambang

Battambang is a charming provincial town located in the Cardamom and Elephant Mountains, in Cambodia. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and historical significance, making it a popular destination among travelers. Known for its well-preserved French Architecture, Buddhist temples, and stunning countryside scenery, Battambang is a must-visit destination in Cambodia.

List of Places to Visit in Battambang

Here is a list of top attractions in Battambang:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Battambang Provincial Museum: A great place to learn about the history and culture of the province. It showcases ancient artifacts and cultural exhibits.
  • Wat Banan Temple: A stunning temple situated on a hill, offering panoramic views of the countryside.
  • Phnom Sampeou: A historical site that serves as a reminder of the Khmer Rouge regime. Visitors can explore the killing caves and witness the nightly bat exodus.
  • Ek Phnom Temple: A magnificent temple ruin from the Angkor period, featuring intricate carvings and Buddha statues.

Natural Attractions of Battambang: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Battambang Bamboo Train: A unique tourist attraction that lets you experience a fun and bumpy ride on a bamboo train through the stunning countryside.
  • Phnom Bannon: A lush forest hill with a series of natural waterfalls that are perfect for swimming and relaxing.
  • Phare Ponleu Selpak: A community-based circus organization that promotes Cambodian arts and culture through its thrilling performances.
  • Boat Ride on Sangker River: A relaxing boat ride on the river that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Battambang

Battambang offers some fantastic hiking and biking trails for adventure seekers. Some popular routes include

  • Phnom Sampeou Hike: A challenging hike that takes you to the top of the hill, where you can witness the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Battambang Countryside Bike Tour: An exciting bike tour that lets you explore the rural countryside of Battambang and learn about the local culture.
  • Battambang Province Cycling Circuit: A multi-day cycling trip that takes you through the stunning countryside, featuring gorgeous temples and historical sites.

Best Things to Do in Battambang: Activities and Tours

Battambang offers a plethora of activities and tours to cater to travelers’ interests, including:

  • Countryside Cooking Class: Learn to cook delicious Cambodian cuisine using local ingredients under the guidance of a professional chef.
  • Battambang Tuk-Tuk Tour: Explore the city’s main attractions in comfort and style by hiring a tuk-tuk for a day.
  • Nature and Wildlife Tour: Discover the stunning natural beauty and wildlife of the Cardamom and Elephant Mountains on a guided tour.
  • Cambodian Silk Weaving Tour: Learn about the traditional Cambodian art of silk weaving and witness the skilled weavers at work.

Week-Long Itinerary for Battambang

Here’s an ideal itinerary for a week-long trip to Battambang:

Day Activity
1 Explore Battambang City and its attractions
2 Hike to Phnom Sampeou Hill and witness the bat exodus
3 Visit nearby temples and historical sites, including Wat Banan Temple and Ek Phnom Temple
4 Learn about the traditional silk weaving process and explore the countryside on a bike
5 Take a relaxing boat ride on Sangker River and visit nearby waterfalls
6 Attend a performance by Phare Ponleu Selpak community circus
7 Take a day trip to nearby Koh Ker temple complex and Angkor Wat

Food and Drink Scene of Battambang

Battambang offers a unique blend of Cambodian and French cuisine, featuring a range of dishes that cater to all tastes. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish Amok: A traditional Cambodian dish made with fish, coconut milk, and curry paste.
  • Lok Lak Beef: A popular Cambodian dish made with stir-fried beef, peppers, and onions served with steamed rice.
  • Baguette Sandwiches: A French-influenced dish featuring a range of fillings, including meat, vegetables, and cheese.

Local Beverages

  • Angkor Beer: Cambodia’s most popular beer, a refreshing drink that pairs well with spicy food.
  • Sugar Cane Juice: A refreshing and healthy drink that is popular in Cambodia.
  • Kampot Pepper Cocktail: A unique cocktail made with locally grown Kampot pepper, a popular Cambodian spice.

Where to Stay in Battambang: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Battambang offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, including luxury hotels, budget-friendly hostels, and comfortable guesthouses. Here are some popular options:

  • La Villa Battambang: A luxurious hotel featuring stunning French-inspired architecture, a swimming pool, and a restaurant.
  • Lux Guesthouse: A budget-friendly guesthouse featuring comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere.
  • Seng Hout Hotel: A mid-range hotel located in the city center, featuring clean rooms and a restaurant.

What to Buy in Battambang: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Battambang is known for its unique handicrafts and locally produced goods, making it an ideal place to shop for souvenirs. Here are some popular options:

  • Bamboo Train Souvenirs: Bring home a piece of the famous bamboo train with souvenirs, including t-shirts and keychains.
  • Rice Paper Paintings: Witness skilled artists at work and take home their hand-painted masterpieces as a souvenir.
  • Krama Scarves: A traditional Cambodian scarf worn by locals that comes in various designs and colors.

Local Culture and Customs of Battambang

Battambang is a culturally rich city that values tradition and customs. Here are some important things to keep in mind when visiting Battambang:

  • Respect for Culture and Religion: Battambang is home to numerous Buddhist temples and traditions, so it is essential to dress conservatively and show respect when visiting them.
  • Greetings and Politeness: Cambodian culture values politeness and respect, so it is customary to greet people with a smile and a simple hello.
  • Gift Giving: Gift giving is an essential part of the Cambodian culture, so it’s a great way to show appreciation and respect to the locals.

Best Time to Visit Battambang

The best time to visit Battambang is between November to February, when the weather is mild and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.

Do’s and Don’ts of Battambang

Here are some important do’s and don’ts when visiting Battambang:

Do:

  • Dress appropriately when visiting temples and religious sites
  • Greet locals with respect and politeness
  • Taste the delicious Cambodian cuisine

Don’t:

  • Engage in public displays of affection
  • Speak loudly or disruptively in religious sites or sacred places
  • Ignore local customs and traditions

Safety and Health

Battambang is generally safe for tourists, but visitors should exercise caution when traveling to remote areas and at night. Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy in Battambang:

Safety in Battambang

  • Keep valuables and important documents in a safe place
  • Avoid walking alone at night or in remote areas
  • Be cautious of scams and pickpockets

Health in Battambang

  • Drink bottled or boiled water to avoid waterborne diseases
  • Wear sunscreen and insect repellent to protect against sun damage and mosquito-borne illnesses
  • Get vaccinated against diseases, including typhoid and hepatitis A

Getting to Battambang: Transportation Options and Logistics

Battambang is well-connected to major cities in Cambodia, making it easy to travel there. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Battambang

  • Siem Reap International Airport: The closest airport to Battambang, located 80 km away.

Bus Stations Near Battambang

  • Phnom Penh Bus Station: One of the most popular routes that connects Battambang with Phnom Penh.
  • Siem Reap Bus Station: Another major route that connects Battambang with Siem Reap.

Other Options

  • Private car service: An alternative mode of transport that offers convenience and comfort.

How to Get Around in Battambang

Battambang is a small city that is easy to navigate on foot or by tuk-tuk. Here are some popular transportation options:

  • Tuk-Tuk: The most popular mode of transport in Battambang, with drivers offering reasonable fares for trips around the city.
  • Walking: Exploring Battambang on foot is the easiest way to discover the hidden gems of the city.

Where to Go Next from Battambang: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Battambang is an excellent base for exploring nearby destinations and planning excursions. Here are some popular options:

  • Siem Reap: Home to the world-famous Angkor Wat and beautiful Pagodas, located 170 km away from Battambang.
  • Phnom Penh: The vibrant capital city of Cambodia, located 290 km away from Battambang.
  • Koh Ker Temple Complex: A lesser-known temple complex that is located 100 km away from Battambang.

Conclusion

Battambang is a beautiful city that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and historical significance. Whether you’re exploring the beautiful countryside, experiencing the Khmer culture, or indulging in the delicious local cuisine, Battambang has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and discover the hidden gems of this charming Cambodian city.

Map of Battambang Map of Battambang Phnom Sampeou Phnom Sampeou Wat Ek Phnom Wat Ek Phnom The bamboo train near Battambang The bamboo train near Battambang Battambang's central market Battambang's central market