Travel Guide to Battambang Province
Discover Battambang Province: A captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty in the heart of Cambodia.
Battambang Province: The Hidden Gem of Cambodia
Battambang Province, located in the northwestern part of Cambodia, is a treasure trove of rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Known for its well-preserved French colonial architecture and picturesque countryside, this province offers a unique blend of old-world charm and natural beauty that is sure to captivate any traveler. The city of Battambang, the province's capital, is a bustling hub of activity, where visitors can explore its many temples, markets, and cafes. One of the must-visit sites is the Battambang Bat Cave, where thousands of bats emerge at dusk in a spectacular natural display. Another highlight is the ancient temple of Wat Ek Phnom, which provides a glimpse into Cambodia's ancient history and spiritual heritage. Beyond the city, the province's lush countryside is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility. Take a ride on the famous bamboo train, or 'Norry', and pass through scenic rice paddies and small villages. Alternatively, explore the stunning landscapes of the Phnom Sampeau mountain, which offers breathtaking views and fascinating caves to discover. Battambang is also renowned for its thriving arts scene. The Phare Ponleu Selpak circus and arts school is a must-see, showcasing incredible performances by talented local artists and helping to support the community. With its mix of cultural attractions, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, Battambang Province is an unforgettable destination for any traveler.
Local tips in Battambang Province
- Visit the Battambang Bat Cave at dusk for an unforgettable wildlife experience.
- Take a ride on the bamboo train for a unique and scenic journey through the countryside.
- Explore Wat Ek Phnom early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful visit.
- Experience local culture and support the community by attending a performance at the Phare Ponleu Selpak circus.
- Rent a bicycle to explore the picturesque villages and rice paddies at your own pace.
Popular Attractions in Battambang Province
Battambang Province in Cambodia offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that will captivate any visitor. Explore the ancient temples and ruins scattered throughout the province, such as the stunning Wat Banan and the mysterious Phnom Sampeau. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the bustling markets, taking a ride on the bamboo train, or watching a traditional Khmer dance performance. Indulge in delicious Cambodian cuisine at the vibrant street food stalls or relax with a leisurely boat ride along the tranquil Sangker River. With its charming colonial architecture, picturesque countryside, and friendly locals, Battambang Province is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
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Discover the enchanting Bamboo Train in Battambang, a unique journey through Cambodia's stunning landscapes and rich culture.
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Uncover the rich history and breathtaking views at Phnom Sampow, a captivating landmark in Krong Battambang, Cambodia.
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Experience the serene beauty and rich heritage of Ek Phnom Pagoda, a captivating Buddhist and Hindu temple in Krong Battambang, Cambodia.
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Experience the breathtaking spectacle of thousands of bats emerging from the cave at Phnom Sampov, a unique natural attraction in Cambodia.
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Discover the scenic beauty and local culture of Cambodia on the unique Banon Bamboo Train ride, an unforgettable adventure through the countryside.
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Discover the tranquility and intricate beauty of Damrey Sor Wat, a hidden gem and cultural landmark in Krong Battambang, Cambodia.
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Experience the vibrant culture and culinary delights of Battambang Central Market, a must-visit hotspot for tourists in Cambodia.
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Experience the serene spirituality and cultural richness at Ta Dumbong Kro Nhong in Krong Battambang, a sacred site that captivates tourists.
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Discover the haunting beauty of The Killing Cave in Cambodia, a historical site that tells stories of resilience amidst a turbulent past.
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Experience the sweetness of Cambodia at Banan Grape Farm, where lush vineyards and delightful tastings await every visitor.
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Experience the spiritual serenity and cultural richness of Wat Samrong Knong, a must-visit Buddhist temple in Battambang, Cambodia.
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Experience the wonders of crocodiles at Battambang Crocodile Farm, a thrilling and educational attraction in Cambodia's picturesque Battambang region.
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Discover the spiritual and cultural wonder of Banan Temple, a hidden gem in Cambodia showcasing ancient architecture and breathtaking views.
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Explore the serene Banan Pagoda in Cambodia, a breathtaking spiritual sanctuary surrounded by lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
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Explore Battambang Market: A bustling hub of local culture, delicious cuisine, and vibrant shopping in the heart of Cambodia.
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Discover the historical charm of Spean Thmor Chas, an ancient bridge in Battambang, Cambodia, surrounded by stunning natural beauty and rich culture.
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Explore the rich history and culture at Mrs. Bun Roeung’s Ancient House in Battambang, a must-visit museum for all travelers.
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Discover Battambang's hidden treasures with Tuk Tuk Buddy - your perfect homestay and sightseeing tour agency in Cambodia.
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Explore the Samrong Knong Killing Field, a poignant historical landmark in Krong Battambang that offers insights into Cambodia's past during the Khmer Rouge era.
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Explore the bustling Khmer Prahok Market in Aek Phnum for an authentic taste of Cambodian culture and cuisine, filled with local produce and handmade crafts.
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Experience the tranquility and beauty of Wat Kandal, a serene Buddhist temple in Krong Battambang, perfect for reflection and cultural immersion.
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Experience the tranquil beauty and cultural richness of Ek Phnom Temple, a stunning Hindu temple in Krong Battambang, Cambodia.
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Discover the serene beauty of Koh Sang Sneah in Krong Battambang, a romantic getaway immersed in nature and rich local culture.
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Experience the thrill of the Bamboo Train in Battambang, Cambodia - a unique journey through stunning landscapes and local culture.
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Explore the Independence Monument, a stunning memorial in Krong Pailin that celebrates national freedom and historical significance amidst serene surroundings.
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Experience the serene beauty and vibrant culture of Battambang Floating Village, a unique destination for adventure and relaxation in Cambodia.
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Discover the spiritual beauty of Wat Bay Damram, a serene temple in Phum Anlong Thmâr, where culture and tranquility meet.
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Explore the captivating history and mystery of The Well of Shadows in Battambang—a must-visit for every traveler seeking cultural depth.
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Explore the enchanting Battambang Day Tour, a captivating blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes in Cambodia.
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Explore the beauty and culture of Battambang at Kim Tours, where unforgettable experiences await every traveler.
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Explore the tranquil beauty of Sun Park, a lush garden and coffee shop oasis in Krong Battambang, perfect for relaxation and a taste of local flavors.
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Battambang Night Market, where delicious food and local crafts come together in a cultural feast.
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Explore Battambang's culture and beauty on an immersive cycling tour through scenic landscapes and local communities.
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Discover tranquility and rich Buddhist heritage at Kampong Pil Pagoda in Krong Battambang, a must-visit for cultural enthusiasts.
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Explore the serene and spiritual ambiance of Phnom Sampow Pagoda, a stunning Buddhist temple showcasing Cambodia's rich cultural heritage.
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Explore the natural beauty and historical significance of Phnom Sampov, a premier hiking destination in Battambang, Cambodia.
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Experience the charm of Battambang with a guided tour by Samnang, uncovering vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and rich heritage.
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Discover the historical treasures of Battambang Odambang 2, a landmark that embodies Cambodia's rich cultural heritage and inviting atmosphere.
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Discover the serene beauty and cultural richness of អូរទរទារ, a hidden gem in Krong Battambang, Cambodia, perfect for travelers seeking tranquility.
Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Battambang Province
When is the best time to go to Battambang Province?
Local Phrases about Battambang Province
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- Helloសួស្តី
[suostei] - Goodbyeលាសប៉េង
[leah sboeng] - Yesបាទ
[baat] - Noទៅទៅ
[tov tov] - Please/You're welcomeសូម
[sourm] - Thank youអរិយយម
[arun aum] - Excuse me/Sorryសូមអត់
[sourm ot] - How are you?អ្នកសុំចុតហើយឬ?
[nek som jor hai?] - Fine. And you?បាទមានល្អហើយ។ អ្នកទេ?
[baat mean lour hai. nek teh?] - Do you speak English?តើអ្នកនៅនិយាយភាសាអង់គ្លេសបានឬ?
[te nek now niyeay phasa angkleh sah ban?] - I don't understandខ្ញុំមិនយល់ទេ
[knhom min yol teh]
- Helloសួស្តី
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseខ្ញុំចង់មើលរបស់បញ្ចប់បានទេ
[knhom chong maul roub sa bonchop bonn teh] - I don't eat meatខ្ញុំមិនបានបរិម្ភ
[knhom min ban brahm] - Cheers!អបិយ!
[oy!] - I would like to pay, pleaseខ្ញុំចង់បង់បានទេ
[knhom chong bong bonn teh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseខ្ញុំចង់មើលរបស់បញ្ចប់បានទេ
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- Help!ជួយ!
[juh!] - Go away!ទៅវិញ!
[tov vin!] - Call the Police!ហោលហោលប៉ូលីស!
[haw haw polis!] - Call a doctor!ហោលប៉ូលីអេប៉ូល!
[haw polis aepol!] - I'm lostខ្ញុំបានខ្លួន
[knhom ban kloun] - I'm illខ្ញុំមានជំងឺ
[knhom mean chom neak]
- Help!ជួយ!
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- I'd like to buy...ខ្ញុំចង់ទិញ...
[knhom chong toon...] - I'm just lookingខ្ញុំតែងជៀសទេ
[knhom tae ches teh] - How much is it?នឹកតិចតាមរយជាមគួរ?
[neuk toet tamray jum kuy?] - That's too expensiveនេះគឺលឿនសមរម្យទេ
[neh koi larn somramy teh] - Can you lower the price?អ្នកអាចធូរតែតម្រួតបានឬ?
[nek aek tor ta tray tmroy ban?]
- I'd like to buy...ខ្ញុំចង់ទិញ...
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- What time is it?នរណា?
[nor na?] - It's one o'clockវិញនេះមួយម៉ោង
[vin neh mouy mawng] - Half past (10)បញ្ចប់បួនខែ
[bonchop buon khsae] - Morningព្រះនកាអងខែ
[preah norak ang khsae] - Afternoonព្រះចន្ទអងខែ
[preah chanth ang khsae] - Eveningព្រះព្រហងេអងខែ
[preah preah nea ang khsae] - Yesterdayម្ខ៉ុន
[m'kon] - Todayថ្ងៃនេះ
[thngai neh] - Tomorrowថ្ងៃស្អែក
[thngai sae] - 1មួយ
[mouy] - 2ពីរ
[pii] - 3បី
[bei] - 4បួន
[buon] - 5ប្រាន
[braen] - 6ប្រានសិក
[braen saek] - 7ប្រានបី
[braen bei] - 8ប្រានបួន
[braen buon] - 9ដេស
[deh] - 10ដប់
[dop]
- What time is it?នរណា?
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- Where's a/the...?ទីណាមានទីណា...?
[tnei mean tnei...?] - What's the address?អាសយដ្ឋាមួយ?
[asyatamouy?] - Can you show me (on the map)?អ្នកអាចបង្ហាញខ្ញុំបានឬ?
[nek aek bonghaeng knhom ban?] - When's the next (bus)?នៅពេលណាខណ្ឌចុះបួល?
[now peal na khnong choh buol?] - A ticket (to ....)បញ្ចប់សុទិនទៅ....
[bonchop soteun to....]
- Where's a/the...?ទីណាមានទីណា...?
History of Battambang Province
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Battambang Province has a rich history that dates back to the Angkorian era. It was once under the rule of the Khmer Empire, which flourished from the 9th to the 15th century. Many temples and ruins from this period, such as Ek Phnom and Banan, are scattered across the province, showcasing the architectural brilliance and religious significance of the era.
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The name 'Battambang' is derived from a local legend about Ta Dambang Kranhoung, or 'Black Wood Stick Grandfather.' According to the legend, Ta Dambang was a powerful figure who wielded a magical stick that granted him control over the area. His story is a testament to the blend of myth and history that enriches the cultural tapestry of Battambang.
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From 1863 to 1953, Cambodia was under French colonial rule, and Battambang was no exception. The province became part of French Indochina in 1907. The French influence is evident in the colonial architecture that still stands in Battambang city, including the Governor's Residence and numerous shop houses. The blend of French and Khmer styles offers a unique glimpse into the colonial past.
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The Khmer Rouge era from 1975 to 1979 was a dark period in Cambodia's history, and Battambang was heavily affected. The regime led by Pol Pot aimed to create an agrarian utopia, leading to forced evacuations, labor camps, and mass atrocities. Sites like the Killing Cave of Phnom Sampeau serve as somber reminders of this tragic period.
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Following the fall of the Khmer Rouge, Battambang began the long process of recovery and rebuilding. The province has since developed into a vibrant cultural hub, known for its arts, crafts, and agricultural produce. The revival of traditional practices and the introduction of modern initiatives have helped Battambang regain its footing and prosper.
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Battambang is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and traditions. The province is a center for traditional Khmer arts, including dance, music, and sculpture. The Phare Ponleu Selpak circus school is a notable institution that preserves and promotes these arts. Additionally, local festivals and ceremonies, such as Pchum Ben and Khmer New Year, offer visitors an immersive cultural experience.
Battambang Province Essentials
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Battambang Province is accessible via multiple routes. The nearest international airport is Siem Reap International Airport, which is approximately 170 kilometers away. From Siem Reap, you can take a bus or taxi to Battambang, with the journey typically taking around 3 to 4 hours by road. Alternatively, you can travel from Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia, which is about 290 kilometers away. Buses and taxis are available for this route as well. For a unique experience, you can take a boat trip from Siem Reap to Battambang along the Tonle Sap River, although this route is seasonal and depends on water levels.
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Getting around Battambang is relatively easy. The city has a variety of transportation options including tuk-tuks, motorbike taxis, and bicycles, which are popular among tourists. Tuk-tuks are the most common form of transportation and are affordable. For those who prefer more independence, renting a motorbike or bicycle is a great way to explore the city and its surroundings. Public buses are limited but can be used for longer trips within the province. Taxis are also available but are generally more expensive.
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The official currency in Cambodia is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), but US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted and often preferred for larger transactions. 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, dispensing both Riel and US Dollars. It is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to more remote areas.
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Battambang is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas, and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Petty theft, such as bag snatching, can occur, particularly in tourist areas. Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid displaying large amounts of cash. High-crime areas targeting tourists are not prevalent, but staying vigilant is always recommended.
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In case of emergency, dial 117 for police assistance, 118 for medical emergencies, and 119 for fire services. Battambang has several hospitals and clinics that can handle medical emergencies. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Knowing the location of your country's embassy or consulate in Cambodia can also be helpful.
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Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do show respect when visiting temples and pagodas. Always remove your shoes and hat before entering. 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' (placing your palms together in a prayer-like gesture). Handshakes are also common, especially among men. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't point your feet at people or religious objects, as it is considered disrespectful.
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To experience Battambang like a local, visit the local markets such as Psar Nath where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Cambodian goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the province's history and culture. Don’t miss riding the famous Bamboo Train for a unique and thrilling experience. For those interested in arts, visit the Phare Ponleu Selpak circus, which showcases the talents of local performers. Exploring the countryside by bicycle allows you to see picturesque landscapes and meet local farmers.
Trending Landmarks in Battambang Province
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Phnom Sampow
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Ta Dumbong Kro Nhong
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Ek Phnom Pagoda
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Damrey Sor Wat
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National Museum
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Mrs. Bun Roeung’s Ancient House
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Battambang Crocodile Farm
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The Killing Cave
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CPCS Cambodia Peace Gallery
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ក្រមុំជ្រឹងវត្តបាយដំរាំ
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Jewel In The Lotus Gallery
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The Well of Shadows
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Battambang Day Tour
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Independence Monument
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Battambang tour by Rich
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