Battambang travel - Cambodia, Asia

Overview of Battambang

History & Cultural Influence

Battambang’s rich history dates back over 1,000 years, having been founded in the 11th century during the Khmer Empire. Its strategic importance grew in the 18th century as a bustling trading city, and it later came under Siamese control in 1795, remaining so until 1907 when it was ceded to French Indochina. The French colonial period left a lasting mark on Battambang, with urban development and well-preserved architecture that still defines the city's charm today. Post-independence, the city continued to flourish under modernization efforts.

Culturally, Battambang is known as Cambodia's arts capital, having produced many of the country’s finest musicians and artists. Its blend of Thai, French, and Khmer influences is visible in its architecture, cuisine, and local customs, giving the city a unique, multicultural vibe. Despite the hardships endured during the Khmer Rouge era, Battambang has demonstrated remarkable resilience, preserving its artistic and cultural heritage. In 2023, it was recognized as a UNESCO Creative City for its contributions to gastronomy, crafts, and folk art, solidifying its role as a center of Cambodian culture.

Interaction with The Locals

When visiting Battambang, you can expect friendly and welcoming interactions with the locals. The city is home to around 150,000 people, most of whom are ethnic Khmer, though you'll also encounter small communities of Cham Muslims, Chinese, and Vietnamese residents. While Khmer is the main language spoken, you might meet some older locals who understand a bit of Thai due to Battambang’s historical ties to Thailand. English is spoken more commonly in tourist areas, and many younger people are eager to practice their language skills with visitors. Since Battambang is less touristy than other destinations like Siem Reap, your interactions will feel more authentic and laid-back, with locals often showing genuine curiosity about travelers. Expect warm smiles, polite conversations, and a sense of pride in their city's rich cultural and artistic heritage.

Top attractions in Battambang

Battambang offers a mix of cultural and historical attractions that captivate travelers. Don’t miss the Phnom Sampeau, where you can witness stunning views and the dramatic bat exodus at dusk, or the Bamboo Train, a quirky ride through the countryside. For art lovers, the Romcheik5 Artspace showcases the city’s vibrant contemporary art scene.

Phnom Sampeau

Location: Sampeau Commune, 12 km southwest of Battambang city

Phnom Sampeau is a striking limestone mountain that offers more than just breathtaking views of the Cambodian countryside. As you hike up, you'll pass several caves, including the haunting Killing Caves, where tragic events from the Khmer Rouge era took place. Today, it serves as a sobering reminder of the country’s past. At dusk, be sure to stick around for a mesmerizing sight—thousands of bats pour out of the caves, creating an unforgettable natural spectacle against the setting sun.

Wat Ek Phnom

Location: 13 km north of Battambang city

For history and architecture lovers, Wat Ek Phnom is a must-visit. This 11th-century Angkorian temple ruin, adorned with intricate carvings and well-preserved lintels, offers a glimpse into Cambodia’s ancient past. The site also features a modern pagoda nearby, providing a fascinating contrast between the old and new elements of Khmer architecture. It’s a peaceful spot that allows visitors to reflect on the deep historical roots of the region.

Bamboo Train (Norry)

Location: 5 km from Battambang city center

Looking for a fun and quirky experience? The Bamboo Train, or Norry, is a unique attraction that lets you ride on a simple bamboo platform powered by a small engine, zooming along old railway tracks. This one-of-a-kind journey offers an exhilarating way to see the rural countryside while showcasing the ingenuity of local people. It’s a short ride, but it’s packed with charm and an unforgettable view of Cambodia’s landscape.

Battambang Provincial Museum

Location: City center, near Psar Nath Market

The Battambang Provincial Museum is a treasure trove of history, housing an impressive collection of Angkorian and pre-Angkorian artifacts. From ancient statues to pottery and tools, the museum provides rich insights into the cultural heritage of the region. Whether you're an archaeology enthusiast or just curious about Cambodia’s history, this museum is a fascinating stop in the heart of Battambang.

Phnom Banan

Location: 25 km south of Battambang city

Often called a "mini-Angkor Wat," Phnom Banan is an 11th-century temple perched on top of a hill. After climbing 358 steps, you’re rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and a well-preserved temple complex. The serene atmosphere and panoramic vistas make it worth the effort, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city below.

Romcheik5 Artspace

Location: Wat Kor Village, outskirts of Battambang city

Battambang's thriving art scene is perfectly captured at Romcheik5 Artspace, a contemporary art museum that features works from local Cambodian artists. Known as Cambodia’s art capital, Battambang nurtures creative expression, and this space is a testament to that reputation. Visitors can explore a range of modern art, from paintings to sculptures, providing a glimpse into the vibrant and evolving world of Cambodian art today.

Must-Try Dishes in Battambang

Battambang is full of unique attractions that capture the city’s charm. Explore Phnom Sampeau, a limestone mountain offering stunning views and home to the eerie Killing Caves, or hop on the Bamboo Train, a fun and quirky way to experience the countryside. For art lovers, the Romcheik5 Artspace showcases contemporary works from local artists, reflecting Battambang’s thriving creative scene.

Mi Keav Lveng

A true local favorite, Mi Keav Lveng features freshly made noodles swimming in a rich, flavorful broth, topped with tender pieces of duck meat. Its reputation extends far beyond Battambang, even reaching food enthusiasts in Phnom Penh. What sets this dish apart is the high-quality, hand-pulled noodles and the delicious broth that packs a punch with every spoonful. If you’re looking to taste the essence of Battambang’s noodle game, this is the dish to try.

Hollow Donuts (Num Poing Chean Moat Steong)

For a quick and tasty breakfast, look no further than Battambang’s famous Hollow Donuts. These golden, crispy fried dough treats are a staple of the city’s morning cuisine, often enjoyed alongside other varieties like Chao Quay (fried bread sticks). Simple, affordable, and delicious, these fried delights are a perfect way to start your day and a testament to the city’s love for no-fuss, comforting street food.

Koch Chea Cantonese Noodle

Koch Chea Cantonese Noodle offers a delightful mix of textures, with soft, stir-fried rice noodles served over a bed of crispy noodles. The contrast between the tender and crunchy noodles makes for a unique dining experience, showcasing the influence of Chinese flavors on Battambang’s local cuisine. It’s the kind of dish that stays with you long after the meal is over.

Je Mei Battambang Meatball

Known for its perfectly seasoned, freshly made meatballs and a dipping sauce that’s nothing short of divine, Je Mei Battambang Meatball has earned a spot as one of Cambodia’s top beef ball dishes. While the dish has made its way to Phnom Penh, locals will tell you that the original version in Battambang is unbeatable. If you’re a fan of savory meatballs, this is a must-try.

Mi Kola

Unique to Battambang, Mi Kola is a dish you won’t find anywhere else in Cambodia. Its distinct flavors make it a local specialty, though opinions on the dish are often divided. Whether you love it or are just intrigued, it’s definitely worth a try if you want to experience the true culinary identity of Battambang.

Festivals & Local Celebrations

Battambang Water Festival (Bon Om Touk)

Time of year: Late October

Battambang’s Water Festival, typically celebrated a month before the national event in Phnom Penh, offers a lively and colorful experience. Held along the scenic Sangker River, the 2023 celebration took place on October 28-29, featuring thrilling boat races with 45 teams and nearly 1,600 competitors. Visitors can enjoy live music, illuminated boat parades, and floating lanterns lighting up the night sky. The festival also includes carnival rides, food and product fairs, and traditional art displays, making it a perfect blend of entertainment and cultural heritage. Don't miss the captivating Robam Buong Suong (Prayer Dance) performances that add a touch of classical beauty to the event.

Cambodian New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey)

Time of year: Mid-April (usually April 13-15)

Battambang brings its own unique twist to the national Cambodian New Year celebrations. Visitors during this time can expect to see vibrant traditional games played in public spaces and joyous water-splashing rituals symbolizing blessings for the new year. Local temples come alive with offerings and special foods, while families and communities gather for festive celebrations. It’s a wonderful time to experience the heartwarming hospitality and joyful atmosphere of Battambang.

Pchum Ben (Ancestors' Day)

Time of year: September-October (15-day festival, with main celebrations on the last three days)

Pchum Ben is a deeply spiritual Buddhist festival, and in Battambang, it’s celebrated with a mix of solemnity and tradition. During this time, local temples are filled with people making offerings to honor their ancestors. Special foods, like num ansom (sticky rice cakes), are prepared for the occasion, and religious ceremonies and chanting take place throughout the city. While the atmosphere is more reflective than festive, it offers a meaningful glimpse into Cambodia’s rich spiritual traditions.

Weather in Battambang: Best Time to Visit

Climate Overview

Battambang experiences a tropical wet and dry climate, typical for much of Cambodia. Located at a low elevation of just 17 meters (56 feet) above sea level, the city enjoys consistently warm weather throughout the year.

Temperature

The average annual temperature in Battambang is around 31.86°C (89.35°F), so you can expect warm days almost any time you visit. The hottest month is March, with temperatures soaring to 39.65°C (103.37°F), while December offers some relief with cooler nights averaging around 22.45°C (72.41°F). Even during the "cooler" months, it rarely dips below 25°C (77°F).

Rainfall

Battambang’s rainy season runs from May to October, with September being the wettest month, receiving about 194.51 mm (7.66 inches) of rain. In contrast, the dry season from November to April sees much less rainfall, with February being the driest month at 7.06 mm (0.28 inches).

Humidity

Humidity hovers around an average of 74.4% throughout the year but peaks during the wet season, often reaching 90%. This makes the air feel a bit more intense, especially during the hotter months.

Best Time to Visit

For the best experience, plan your visit between late November and February. This period offers warm yet pleasant days, cooler nights, and little rainfall. If you're not a fan of the heat, avoid March to May, as these months can get particularly hot. While the wet season from May to October brings frequent showers, it also means fewer tourists, making it a quieter time to explore.

Culture Etiquette in Battambang

Dress Code

When visiting temples or religious sites in Cambodia, it's important to dress modestly. Be sure to cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect in sacred places.

Temple Etiquette

Before entering temples or homes, always remove your shoes. It's also important to avoid pointing your feet toward Buddha statues or monks, as feet are considered the lowest part of the body. Refrain from touching or climbing on religious statues and structures.

Greetings and Respect

The traditional Cambodian greeting is the sampeah, where you place your palms together in a prayer-like gesture and bow slightly. The higher you raise your hands and the deeper the bow, the more respect you show. In public, addressing people with "sir" or "madam" is polite and appreciated.

Physical Contact

Avoid touching anyone’s head, as it’s considered the most sacred part of the body in Cambodian culture. Public displays of affection, like kissing or holding hands, are generally frowned upon.

Photography

Always ask permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas. Be mindful and respectful when photographing temples or sacred sites to avoid offending locals.

Gift-Giving

If you’re invited to someone’s home, it’s thoughtful to bring a small gift as a token of appreciation. When giving or receiving gifts, use your right hand or both hands to show respect.

Monks and Religious Customs

Avoid making physical contact with monks, particularly if you're a woman. If you witness the early morning alms-giving ritual (Tak Bat), observe in silence and do not disrupt the ceremony.

General Etiquette

Always remove your shoes when entering someone’s home. Use your right hand for giving or receiving objects, and try to stay calm and composed in public, as Cambodians value quietness and politeness.

Interesting day trips and side excursions from Battambang

Bamboo Train (Norry)

Just a short ride outside of Battambang, the famous Bamboo Train offers a quirky and scenic adventure through Cambodia’s countryside. You’ll hop on a simple bamboo platform powered by a small motor, speeding along old railway tracks. It’s a fun, unique experience that gives you a glimpse of local ingenuity while enjoying the beautiful rural views.

Phnom Sampeau

Located about 12 km southwest of Battambang, Phnom Sampeau is a must-visit for its blend of natural beauty and historical significance. This hilltop site features temples and caves, including the infamous Killing Caves, which hold a tragic connection to Cambodia’s Khmer Rouge past. While the history here is somber, visiting at dusk offers a fascinating sight as millions of bats emerge from the caves, creating a dramatic natural display.

Phnom Banan

About 25 km south of Battambang, Phnom Banan is an 11th-century Angkorian-era temple perched atop a hill. After a climb of 358 steps, visitors are rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding countryside, along with beautifully preserved temple ruins. It’s often referred to as a “mini Angkor Wat” and provides a peaceful escape with fewer crowds.

Ek Phnom

Another 11th-century temple, Ek Phnom is located around 10 km north of Battambang. Less visited than some of the more famous temples, this site offers a serene and quiet atmosphere for exploring ancient Khmer architecture without the bustling crowds.

Wat Kor Village

For a look into traditional Khmer life, Wat Kor Village is a great stop. Known for its ancient wooden houses, this village gives visitors a glimpse into Cambodia’s rural past, with well-preserved homes that are over a century old. It’s an excellent place to slow down and appreciate the local culture.

Countryside Tours

Many visitors opt for tuk-tuk tours to explore Battambang’s surrounding countryside. These tours often take you through rice paddies, local villages, and cottage industries like rice paper making and fish paste production. It’s a great way to see the heart of rural Cambodia and support local artisans.

Kamping Puoy Lake

About 30 km west of the city, Kamping Puoy Lake is a tranquil reservoir perfect for picnics and boat rides. Surrounded by lush greenery, this peaceful spot is ideal for those looking to unwind and enjoy nature away from the city.

Prasat Snung

For history buffs, Prasat Snung is a pre-Angkorian temple ruin located about 45 km from Battambang. Though less famous than other sites, it offers an intriguing look at Cambodia’s ancient past and is worth the visit for those who enjoy historical exploration.

Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary

Though a bit further afield, the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary on Tonle Sap Lake is a paradise for bird lovers. It’s one of Southeast Asia’s most important breeding grounds for endangered water birds, making it a must-see for wildlife enthusiasts.

Local Farms and Vineyards

Some tours include stops at local farms or even a visit to Prasat Phnom Banan Winery, Cambodia’s first winery. These tours offer a unique perspective on local agriculture and a chance to sample Cambodian wine in a beautiful setting.

Essential Travel Information

Getting to Battambang

By Air

While Battambang does have an airport, it’s not currently operational for commercial flights. The closest airports are in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, so travelers will need to fly into one of these cities and continue their journey by land.

By Bus

Several bus companies offer routes to Battambang from major cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. The trip from Phnom Penh typically takes 5-6 hours, while the journey from Siem Reap is shorter, at around 3-4 hours. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to reach the city.

By Boat

During the wet season, you can take a scenic boat ride between Siem Reap and Battambang along the Tonle Sap River. This journey takes 6-8 hours and offers stunning views of the Cambodian countryside.

By Train

For those looking for a slower, more scenic option, the recently restored train line connecting Phnom Penh to Battambang is a great choice. The train journey takes around 10 hours and offers a unique way to see the landscape.

By Car

Private taxis and car rentals are readily available for hire, offering more flexibility. The drive from Phnom Penh to Battambang takes about 4-5 hours, and it’s a comfortable option for those wanting more control over their schedule.

Getting Around Battambang

Tuk-Tuks

The most popular way to get around Battambang is by tuk-tuk. They’re affordable and convenient for short trips, though you’ll want to negotiate the price beforehand.

Motorcycle Taxis (Motos)

For solo travelers, motos are a quick and inexpensive way to get around. Just make sure to wear a helmet for safety!

Bicycles

Exploring Battambang by bicycle is a fantastic way to take in the city and nearby countryside at your own pace. Many guesthouses and hotels offer rentals for around $1-3 per day, making this a budget-friendly option.

Rental Motorbikes

For more freedom to explore, motorbikes can be rented for about $5-10 per day. This option gives you flexibility to venture outside the city, but be mindful of road conditions.

Taxis

Though less common than tuk-tuks, taxis are available for longer trips or day tours. If you’re planning to explore farther out, hiring a taxi is a good option.

Walking

Battambang’s city center is compact and easy to navigate on foot, making walking a great way to discover its hidden gems.

Ride-Sharing Services

Ride-sharing apps like Grab and PassApp aren’t widely available in Battambang yet, so most transportation is arranged through local providers like tuk-tuks or taxis.

Tips for Travelers

• Always negotiate prices in advance, especially with tuk-tuks and motos.
• If you’re renting a motorbike, be cautious of traffic and rural road conditions.
• For countryside tours, consider hiring a local guide to enhance your experience and ensure safety.

ATM and Banking Services

Travelers in Battambang will find plenty of convenient ATM and banking services. Wing Bank offers 24/7 ATMs and Cash Recycling Machines (CRM), where you can withdraw or deposit cash, check your balance, and handle other banking needs. Cambodian Commercial Bank (CCB), a part of Siam Commercial Bank, also has ATMs in Battambang that support VISA, MasterCard, and local Cambodian cards through the CSS (Cambodian Shared Swift) system. While details for other banks weren't provided, you can expect ATMs from other major Cambodian banks to be available, given Battambang’s size and importance as a provincial capital.

Accommodation Choices

Battambang offers a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences, all with the town’s relaxed, charming atmosphere. You’ll find a mix of guesthouses, boutique hotels, and possibly a few larger hotels in the town. For travelers seeking a more authentic experience, there may even be homestays available in the countryside.

When choosing where to stay, think about what matters most to you:

• Proximity to the town center for easy access to restaurants, galleries, and attractions
• Scenic views of the countryside or river, if you prefer a more peaceful setting
• Amenities like bicycle rentals, which can help you explore the area
• Local experiences, as some accommodations may offer tours or activities to enhance your stay