Travel Guide to Battambang
Discover Battambang, Cambodia's hidden gem, where colonial charm meets ancient temples and lush countryside for an unforgettable travel experience.
Battambang: The Hidden Gem of Cambodia
Battambang, located in northwestern Cambodia, is a city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, Battambang provides a glimpse into Cambodia's past. The French influence is evident in the charming buildings that line the streets, making it a picturesque destination for walkers and photographers alike. The city is also home to an array of ancient temples and pagodas, each with its own story to tell. Wat Banan and Wat Ek Phnom are must-see sites, offering visitors a chance to explore Cambodia's rich spiritual heritage. For a more modern spiritual experience, the Battambang Bat Caves offer an intriguing spectacle as thousands of bats take flight at dusk. Beyond its historical and cultural attractions, Battambang is surrounded by lush countryside, making it an excellent base for eco-tourism. Visitors can take a ride on the famous Bamboo Train, explore local villages, or go on a bike tour through the rice paddies. The Sangker River adds to the city's charm, providing opportunities for boat trips and scenic views. Local markets and restaurants offer a taste of authentic Cambodian cuisine, with fresh produce and traditional dishes that will delight any foodie. The city's laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals make it a welcoming destination for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of more touristy areas.
Local tips in Battambang
- Visit the Battambang Bat Caves at dusk for an unforgettable natural spectacle.
- Explore the city on foot or by bike to fully appreciate its colonial architecture and local culture.
- Take a ride on the unique Bamboo Train for a fun and scenic experience.
- Don't miss the local markets for fresh produce and authentic Cambodian dishes.
- Consider hiring a local guide for a more in-depth exploration of Battambang's temples and historical sites.
Popular Attractions in Battambang
Battambang in Cambodia offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that will captivate any visitor. From the ancient temples of Wat Banan and Wat Ek Phnom to the stunning countryside views along the bamboo train ride, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Explore the local markets, where you can taste delicious street food and shop for handmade crafts. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Phare Ponleu Selpak circus, where talented performers put on a mesmerizing show. Whether you are interested in history, art, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, Battambang has it all.
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Discover the charm of Battambang with a unique ride on the Bamboo Train, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into local life.
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Discover the enchanting beauty and rich history of Phnom Sampow, a must-see landmark in Krong Battambang, Cambodia.
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Experience the serene beauty of Ek Phnom Pagoda, a spiritual haven in Battambang, rich in culture and tranquility.
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Experience the breathtaking spectacle of thousands of bats emerging from the Bat Cave at Phnom Sampov, a must-see natural wonder in Cambodia.
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Discover the mesmerizing landscapes and vibrant culture of Cambodia aboard the unique Banon Bamboo Train, a memorable adventure for every traveler.
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Experience the serene beauty of Damrey Sor Wat, a stunning Buddhist temple in Battambang, Cambodia, rich in culture and tranquility.
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Explore Battambang Central Market: A vibrant hub of local culture, cuisine, and craftsmanship in the heart of Cambodia.
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Explore the serene beauty and spiritual significance of Ta Dumbong Kro Nhong, a hidden gem in Battambang that invites reflection and cultural discovery.
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Explore the National Museum in Krong Battambang and immerse yourself in Cambodia's rich cultural heritage through captivating exhibits and historical artifacts.
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Discover the haunting history and natural beauty of The Killing Cave, a significant site in Cambodia's poignant past.
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Explore the picturesque Banan Grape Farm in Cambodia, where fresh grapes and delightful local flavors await in a serene natural setting.
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Discover a dynamic blend of modern art and delightful cuisine at Romcheik 5 Artspace & Café in Krong Battambang.
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Explore the serene beauty and spiritual significance of Wat Samrong Knong, a hidden gem in Krong Battambang, Cambodia.
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Explore the thrilling world of crocodiles at Battambang Crocodile Farm, a family-friendly attraction in Cambodia's beautiful Battambang region.
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Experience the tranquility and historical depth of Banan Temple, a hidden gem in Cambodia's spiritual landscape.
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Discover the serene beauty and cultural richness of Banan Pagoda, a spiritual haven in the heart of Cambodia's countryside.
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Explore the enchanting Spean Thmor Chas, a historic bridge in Battambang, where colonial charm meets natural beauty for an unforgettable visit.
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Discover Cambodia's cultural treasures at Mrs. Bun Roeung’s Ancient House, a museum that brings history and craftsmanship to life.
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Experience the heart of Cambodia at Battambang Tuk Tuk Buddy - your ultimate homestay and tour agency in Battambang.
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Explore the captivating Pkar Slar Cave in Krong Battambang, where nature's artistry meets rich cultural heritage in a breathtaking underground adventure.
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Explore the Samrong Knong Killing Field: A pivotal historical landmark in Cambodia, reflecting resilience and remembrance of the Khmer Rouge tragedy.
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Experience the tranquility and stunning architecture of Wat Kandal, a serene Buddhist temple in the heart of Battambang, Cambodia.
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Explore the ancient Ek Phnom Temple in Battambang, a serene Hindu sanctuary rich in history and stunning architecture.
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Experience the tranquil beauty of Koh Sang Sneah, a serene tourist attraction in Krong Battambang, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
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Discover the thrill of the Bamboo Train in Krong Battambang, a unique adventure through Cambodia's stunning countryside.
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Explore the profound stories of resilience and hope at the CPCS Cambodia Peace Gallery in Krong Battambang.
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Explore The Well of Shadows in Krong Battambang, a hauntingly beautiful site featuring clay frescoes that narrate the rich history of Cambodia.
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Discover the enchanting Battambang Day Tour, where vibrant culture meets stunning landscapes in Cambodia's hidden gem.
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Discover the beauty and culture of Cambodia at Kim Tours Battambang, a must-visit destination for unforgettable experiences.
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Experience the unique blend of hospitality and local culture at Seng Hout Hotel Tour in Battambang, Cambodia, a must-visit for every traveler.
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Discover Battambang's rich history and stunning landscapes with personalized tours that connect you to the heart of Cambodia.
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Discover the breathtaking beauty and cultural significance of Phnom, a majestic mountain peak in Cambodia, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
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Visit Battambang Independence Monument, a historic landmark symbolizing Cambodia's resilience, set in beautiful gardens perfect for reflection.
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Explore the Historic Railway Bridge in Krong Battambang - a blend of history, architecture, and stunning views perfect for every traveler.
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Uncover the hidden gems of Battambang through an unforgettable cycling adventure, immerse yourself in local culture, and enjoy breathtaking landscapes.
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Discover the tranquility and beauty of Kampong Pil Pagoda, a peaceful Buddhist temple in Krong Battambang, where spirituality meets stunning architecture.
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Explore the tranquil Phnom Sampow Pagoda, a serene Buddhist temple offering stunning views, rich culture, and a peaceful atmosphere in Cambodia.
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Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Phnom Sampov, a hiking paradise near Krong Battambang, Cambodia.
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Discover the captivating blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes in Battambang, Cambodia's charming hidden gem.
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Discover the vibrant Battambang Night Market, where authentic Cambodian cuisine and craftsmanship await you in a lively atmosphere.
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Discover the cultural gems of Battambang, from the magical Bat Cave to the thrilling bamboo train ride and local handicrafts.
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Discover the charm of Central Fountain Square in Krong Battambang, where local culture and community spirit come alive in a vibrant setting.
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Discover the hidden gems of Battambang, Cambodia, with Samnang Tours, featuring stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences.
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Witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of thousands of bats taking flight at dusk in Krong Battambang, a must-see for every traveler.
Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Battambang
When is the best time to go to Battambang?
Local Phrases
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- Helloសួស្តី
[suo-sdei] - Goodbyeលាហើយ
[leah-heuy] - Yesបាទ/បាទអី
[baat/baat ei] - Noទេ
[te] - Please/You're welcomeសូម
[som] - Thank youអរគុណ
[aw-kun] - Excuse me/Sorryសូមទោស
[som-toh] - How are you?អ្នកសួស្តីបង
[neak suo-sdei bong] - Fine. And you?សង្ឃ. អង្គទេ?
[sangk ang-te?] - Do you speak English?អ្នកនិយាយអង្គរវិលរៀនទេ?
[neak ney-ya ang-kar vil-rean te?] - I don't understandខ្ញុំមិនយល់
[knhom min yol]
- Helloសួស្តី
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseខ្ញុំចង់មើលម៉ឺនូធុញសូម
[knhom chong meul menu tong som] - I don't eat meatខ្ញុំមិនបិក
[knhom min bek] - Cheers!សូម
[chol mui] - I would like to pay, pleaseខ្ញុំចង់បង់ប្រាក់សូម
[knhom chong bong braak som]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseខ្ញុំចង់មើលម៉ឺនូធុញសូម
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- Help!ជួបជួន!
[choub choun] - Go away!ទៅឆ្ងាត់!
[taw chngat] - Call the Police!ហៅក្រសួង!
[haw kra-suo-ng] - Call a doctor!ហៅវេជ្ជតា!
[haw vejjetah] - I'm lostខ្ញុំភ្លេច
[knhom plech] - I'm illខ្ញុំខ្លះ
[knhom kloh]
- Help!ជួបជួន!
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- I'd like to buy...ខ្ញុំចង់ទិញ...
[knhom chong tuhun...] - I'm just lookingខ្ញុំនៅមើល
[knhom now meul] - How much is it?តើវ៉េខ្ញុំបញ្ចូលបានប៉ុន្មាន?
[te ve knhom bong-jol ban ponman?] - That's too expensiveធាតុះថ្មល់ប៉ុន្មាន
[taat tham-loh ponman] - Can you lower the price?តើអ្នកអាចបញ្ចូលតម្លៃបានប៉ុន្មាន?
[te neak ac bong-jol tamle ponman?]
- I'd like to buy...ខ្ញុំចង់ទិញ...
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- What time is it?មេឌានថ្ងៃនេះ?
[mendan thngai ney?] - It's one o'clockនេះគិតមួយ
[ney kit muoy] - Half past (10)កន្លះទីលួខ
[knlah ti lu kaw] - Morningព្រឹក
[preuk] - Afternoonល្ងាច
[lngeach] - Eveningល្ងាច
[lngeach] - Yesterdayម្សិល
[mas] - Todayថ្ងៃនេះ
[thngai ney] - Tomorrowថ្ងៃស្អែ
[thngai sae] - 1មួយ
[muoy] - 2ពីរ
[pii] - 3បី
[bei] - 4បួន
[buon] - 5ប្រា
[bra] - 6ត្រល់
[tral] - 7បីត្រល់
[bei tral] - 8បើក
[bek] - 9កណ្តឹ
[kandeu] - 10ដប់
[dop]
- What time is it?មេឌានថ្ងៃនេះ?
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- Where's a/the...?នៅមាន...
[now man...] - What's the address?អាសយដ្ឋានមួយម៉ាយណា?
[asity tan muoy mayna?] - Can you show me (on the map)?តើអ្នកអាចបង់បានប៉ុន្មាន?
[te neak ac bong-jol tamle ponman?] - When's the next (bus)?នៅពេលណាហើយ?
[now pel ney?] - A ticket (to ....)សិក្ខបញ្ចូល (ទៅ ....)
[sok ban-jol (tuh ...)]
- Where's a/the...?នៅមាន...
History of Battambang
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Battambang, known as 'the rice bowl of Cambodia,' has a rich history dating back to the 11th century. The city was founded during the Khmer Empire and became an important regional center. Ancient temples like Wat Ek Phnom and Phnom Banan stand as remnants of this period, showcasing the grandeur and architectural prowess of the Khmer civilization.
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The name Battambang translates to 'Lost Stick,' originating from the legend of Ta Dambong. According to the tale, Ta Dambong was a cowherd who found a magical stick. He used its powers to overthrow the local king and rule the area. The king’s son eventually returned and reclaimed the throne, causing Ta Dambong to flee, losing his stick in the process. This fascinating legend is immortalized in a statue near Battambang’s central market.
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In the late 19th century, Battambang came under French colonial rule as part of French Indochina. This period saw the development of infrastructure and the introduction of French architectural styles, which are still visible today in the city's colonial buildings. The French influence also brought new agricultural techniques, significantly impacting Battambang's rice production.
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From 1941 to 1946, during World War II, Battambang was occupied by Thailand. This period was marked by significant cultural exchange, and many of the local customs and traditions still show Thai influences. The occupation ended after World War II, when the city was returned to Cambodia as part of the French protectorate.
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After Cambodia gained independence from France in 1953, Battambang experienced a period of growth and development. However, the city was heavily impacted during the Cambodian Civil War and the Khmer Rouge regime from 1975 to 1979. Many historical sites were damaged, and the local population suffered greatly. The city has since been rebuilding and recovering from this tumultuous period.
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In recent years, Battambang has become a hub for art and culture. The city is home to several art galleries, cultural centers, and the Phare Ponleu Selpak circus, which helps preserve and promote traditional Cambodian arts. This cultural revival is transforming Battambang into a vibrant and dynamic destination for both locals and tourists.
Battambang Essentials
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Battambang is located in northwestern Cambodia. The nearest international airport is Siem Reap International Airport, approximately 170 kilometers away. From Siem Reap, you can take a taxi, bus, or boat to Battambang. The bus journey typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, while the boat ride along the Tonle Sap River offers a scenic, albeit longer, alternative. Another option is to fly into Phnom Penh International Airport and take a bus or taxi from there, which takes around 5 to 6 hours by road.
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Battambang is a small city, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Public buses and shared taxis (known as 'remorques') operate within the city and connect to nearby villages. Renting a bicycle or a motorbike is also a popular way to explore the area at your own pace.
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The official currency in Cambodia is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), but US dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Battambang, and most dispense both Cambodian Riel and US dollars.
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Battambang is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Specific high-crime areas include the outskirts of the city and some remote rural areas. Be cautious when riding motorbikes or bicycles, as traffic can be chaotic.
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In case of emergency, dial 117 for police assistance and 119 for medical emergencies. Battambang has a local police station and several medical facilities, including the Battambang Provincial Hospital. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
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Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes and cover your shoulders and knees when entering temples. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a slight bow and a 'Sampeah' (pressing your palms together in front of your chest). Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
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To experience Battambang like a local, visit the local markets such as Psar Nat Market, where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Cambodian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Bamboo Train, a unique and fun way to see the countryside. For a unique experience, take a boat ride on the Sangker River, offering picturesque views of the surrounding area.
Trending Landmark in Battambang
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Bat Cave Phnom Sampov
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Bamboo Train Battambang
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Ta Dumbong Kro Nhong
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Jaan Bai Restaurant
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Ek Phnom Pagoda
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The Lonely Tree Café
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Damrey Sor Pagoda
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Romcheik 5 Artspace & Café
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Maisons Wat Kor
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National Museum
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The Sanctuary Villa Battambang
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Mrs. Bun Roeung’s Ancient House
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Battambang Crocodile Farm
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Wat Samrong Knong
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Sky Palace Boutique Hotel
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