Things to Do in Battambang: If you’re gearing up for a visit to Battambang, my comprehensive guide will help you uncover the best things to do in Battambang, including some hidden gems. It also offers recommendations for hotels, bars, restaurants, and transport tips.
Battambang, the provincial capital of Battambang Province in western Cambodia, is renowned for three main features: its well-preserved French colonial architecture, its vibrant creative community, and its abundant rice production, earning it the nickname ‘Cambodia’s rice barn.’
Historically, Battambang was Cambodia’s unofficial cultural hub, flourishing in art and music before the devastation of the Pol Pot regime. It’s estimated that 90% of the country’s artists perished during the genocide, a grim reminder of the era’s impact. Many of these artists were based in Battambang.
Today, Battambang is a charming city with lively cafes, artist-run galleries, and boutique shops. The surrounding area boasts some of Cambodia’s top outdoor attractions and unique activities, such as the famous bamboo railway.
Welcome to Battambang
Life in Battambang unfolds along the Sangkae River, extending over flat rice fields to stilted villages, fruit orchards, and ancient temples, culminating in the modest peak of Sampeou Mountain. It’s a serene and picturesque location.
Battambang exudes a unique energy unlike any other city in Cambodia. With a bicycle, you could spend a month exploring its broad boulevards without ever growing tired!
I spent nearly a week in Battambang during my time in Cambodia and am eager to return. This guide, which I thoroughly enjoyed updating, is tailored for those planning to stay in Battambang for a day or two.
First Impressions of Battambang
Battambang presents a vivid mix of spirituality, superstition, and a tragic past more intensely than other places I’ve visited in Cambodia. The city’s atmosphere reflects these elements profoundly.
Once a colonial outpost, Battambang now boasts the highest number of artists per capita in Cambodia. Alongside hoteliers, restaurateurs, and social entrepreneurs, these artists have revitalized the city’s most significant landmarks, transforming them into cafes, boutique hotels, and galleries.
Central Battambang offers a blend of Chinese shop houses and grand colonial architecture. A single road curves along the river, leading quickly into a pastoral landscape of dirt roads and rice fields.
Discover All the Best Things to Do in Battambang
The beating heart of Battambang is its Central Market, a prime example of New Khmer Architecture, rarely seen outside Phnom Penh. The market, built by French engineers in 1936, features a yellow facade, tiered roof, and clock tower. Inside, it’s bustling with food, household goods, and more. For an authentic experience, enjoy a bowl of kuy teav noodle soup at one of the market’s small restaurants.
How to Get to Battambang
Giant Ibis, my preferred bus company for long journeys in Cambodia, doesn’t service Battambang. Instead, opt for a local bus, either a coach or minivan. Mekong Express is a reputable choice for safety. Avoid traveling by road in Cambodia after dark.
For a more comfortable and quicker option, hire a private car and driver from Phnom Penh or Siem Reap to Battambang. Alternatively, you can join a full-day tour from Siem Reap.
From Phnom Penh to Battambang
With 14 daily departures from Phnom Penh, you can reach Battambang in 5 to 6 hours. Companies like Mekong Express, Bayon VIP, Meanchey Express, and Cambodia Post VIP Van offer services, with prices ranging from 9 to 12 USD. Cambodia Post VIP Van is the most reliable, though its single daily service is popular.
From Siem Reap to Battambang
Mekong Express offers two daily buses from Siem Reap at 8am and 2pm, taking about 3 hours at a cost of 8 USD. Tickets can be purchased online through Bookaway. Alternatively, a taxi costs roughly 50-60 USD one-way.
Where to Stay in Battambang
Battambang offers a range of accommodations to suit various budgets and preferences. For a unique experience, consider staying at one of the ‘Siem Reap-style villas’ on the town’s outskirts, complete with a pool.
Top Choice: The Sanctuary Villa
Featuring lush gardens, open-air pavilions, and a beautiful pool, The Sanctuary Villa offers a tranquil atmosphere. The villa’s friendly staff and excellent breakfast make it a top recommendation. Prices start at just 30 USD, providing great value for money.
Budget Hotels in Battambang
The Place, located near Central Market, offers dorm-style and private rooms with a rooftop bar. Prices start at 5 USD. Lucky Hostel and Guesthouse is another budget option with rooms from 3 USD and a convenient location.
Mid-Range Hotels in Battambang
Ramchang Guesthouse offers a relaxing stay with a pool and free bicycles. Rooms start at 10 USD. The Royal Hotel, centrally located, offers simple rooms from 12 USD and even a jacuzzi.
Boutique Hotels & Resorts
Battambang Resort, located south of the city, provides spacious rooms, lush surroundings, and a pool. Ideal for families, with prices starting at 113 USD.
How to Spend One Day in Battambang: Classic Attractions
If you have only one day in Battambang, visit these top attractions. For a more in-depth experience or hidden gems, explore the second day’s recommendations.
Battambang Central Market
Start your day at Battambang’s Central Market, a hub for food, goods, and local life. Admire its Art Deco facade and enjoy traditional Cambodian dishes at market stalls. The market operates daily from 6am to 6pm.
Join a ‘Greater Battambang’ Day Tour
Arrange a tuk tuk tour through your accommodation to explore the countryside, including the bamboo railway, a local vineyard, Wat Kor village, and pre-Angkorian temples. The tour also includes a sunset visit to Sampeou Mountain. Prices range from 15-20 USD.
Battambang Bamboo Train
The bamboo train, a popular attraction, offers a 20-minute ride on a flatbed platform. The train operates at speeds up to 50 km/h and costs 5 USD per person. Bring a cotton scarf to protect against dust.
Wat Kor Village
Visit Wat Kor, known for its heritage hardwood houses. Explore Mrs. Bun Roeung’s house and Khor Sang house, which date back to the early 1900s.
Wat Po Veal Temple
Wat Po Veal is a significant Buddhist pagoda with tranquil gardens and grand architecture. Although its museum collection has been neglected, the site remains worth a visit.
Chan Thai Choeung Winery
This rustic winery offers samples of red wine, rice wine, and liqueur.
Phnom Sampeau
Phnom Sampeau, Battambang’s highest peak, is famous for its bat colonies and historical significance. Visit the Killing Caves and enjoy city views from the summit.
Phare Circus
Phare Circus, known for its acrobatics and physical theatre, is a must-see evening activity. Book tickets in advance for performances held most nights. The circus is located about 10 minutes by tuk tuk from the city center.
Two Days or More in Battambang: Quirky & Unusual Activities
If you have extra time, explore these unique activities and local experiences.
Self-Guided Architecture Tour
Battambang features numerous preserved French-era buildings. Use free PDF maps from Khmer Architecture Tours to explore the city’s architectural highlights by bicycle.
Walk Down Buffalo Alley
Buffalo Alley, or Kampung Krabey, is a trendy laneway lined with cafes and shops, formerly used as a shortcut for farmers.
Bicycle Tour with Soksabike
Explore Battambang’s countryside and temples on a bicycle tour with Soksabike, which supports local families and vocational programs.
Join a Cooking Class
Learn to cook Cambodian dishes at Smokin’ Pot, Nary Kitchen, or Coconut Lyly. Battambang offers smaller, more intimate classes compared to other locations.
See Contemporary Art at Romcheik 5
Romcheik 5, a creative space and gallery, showcases work by local artists. The venue includes a rooftop cafe and is located just outside the city center.
Have Afternoon Tea at The Lonely Tree Café
The Lonely Tree Café offers a beautiful interior and a delightful menu. It’s a perfect spot to relax during an afternoon storm.
