Battambang
Battambang, Cambodia’s second-largest city, is a charming blend of French colonial architecture and rural Khmer charm.
Battambang is also a good base to explore Tonle Sap lake, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and its fascinating floating villages. There is also the Phnom Sampeau ‘bat caves’ and interesting monuments such as Phnom Banan, both giving stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The Bamboo train is also a fun experience.
Highlights
Phnom Sampeau
↓
↑
This limestone hill is well worth a visit for its impressive views, a reminder of the Khmer Rouge atrocities and the extraordinary sight of millions of bats.
About half way up the hill, the ‘Killing Caves’ hold a golden buddha next to a memorial filled with the skeletal remains of victims. From the summit there are a number of viewpoints amongst the temples and on descending you can walk through a deep canyon guarded by two Angkorian warriors.
We were there in the evening and sampled a number of interesting street food stalls before seeing the spectacular sight of millions of bats emerging from the ‘bat cave’.
Tonle Sap Lake
↓
↑
Tonle Sap Lake is Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, teeming with wild and local life. During the wet season, the lake swells dramatically, nurturing rich biodiversity—perfect for birdwatching or sunset cruises.
The water level in the lake can vary as much as 10m. During the rainy season water flows out of the lake through the Tonle Sap river into the Mekong. However, during the dry season, the water flow reverses and the Mekong adds water to the lake.
Battambang Town
↓
↑
Battambang, Cambodia’s second-largest city, is a charming blend of French colonial architecture and rural Khmer charm. You can stroll along the scenic Sangr River, visit the iconic bamboo bridges, and experience the interesting foodie scene.
Bamboo Train
↓
↑
The Bamboo Train is a quirky ride on a makeshift railcar powered by a small motor, gluing you to the tracks through lush countryside. Originally used for locals to transport goods, it’s now a popular tourist attraction offering scenic views of rice fields and villages. Rides typically cover a short stretch of the old French-built railway, with speeds reaching up to 40 km/h – expect an adventurous bump! It’s a unique way to experience rural Cambodian life, best enjoyed with a sense of fun and curiosity.
Prek Toal floating village
↓
↑
We really loved this floating village experience on Tonle Sap lake. It wasn’t ‘touristy’ at all, with no other visitors around. Everyone was so friendly and the children so happy!
Phnom Banan
↓
↑
Phnom Banan, also known as Wat Banan, is an ancient site located around 20 km south of Battambang. From its eastern side, there is a platform with naga (snake) balustrade before a staircase flanked by lions rising 400m to the grand temple featuring five ancient towers.
Hotels
Tours
Coming soon.