Battambang is Cambodia’s second-largest city, located in the northwest of the country along the Sangkae River. Known for its charming colonial architecture, rich artistic culture, and peaceful countryside, Battambang offers a more authentic and laid-back experience compared to the country’s busier tourist hubs.
It’s a city where history, art, and rural life blend beautifully, making it a favorite among travelers seeking culture, creativity, and connection.
Province: Battambang Province
Population: Approx. 200,000 (city area)
Main Language: Khmer (English spoken in tourism and hospitality)
Distance from Phnom Penh: ~290 km (~5–6 hours by car)
Distance from Siem Reap: ~170 km (~3–4 hours by car)
Battambang is often called the artistic capital of Cambodia. It’s home to numerous galleries, art studios, and the renowned:
Phare Ponleu Selpak (The Brightness of the Arts) – a non-profit art school famous for its circus performances, combining acrobatics, theater, and traditional storytelling.
The city’s creative energy is visible in murals, sculpture gardens, and performances by local artists.
Battambang preserves a significant number of French colonial buildings, charming shophouses, and Buddhist temples, offering a unique atmosphere of history and elegance.
Notable landmarks include:
Wat Banan Temple – Often called the “Mini Angkor Wat”
Wat Ek Phnom – A partially ruined 11th-century temple
Battambang Railway Station – A nostalgic symbol of Cambodia’s rail heritage
One of Battambang’s most unique attractions is the Bamboo Train, a simple flatbed vehicle that runs on old railway tracks, offering a fun and bumpy ride through the countryside. It’s a must-do for adventurous travelers and families alike.
Battambang is surrounded by lush rice paddies, traditional Cambodian villages, and limestone hills with caves and shrines.
Top natural sites include:
Phnom Sampov – A mountain with a pagoda, caves, and tragic history during the Khmer Rouge era
Bat Caves at Dusk – Witness thousands of bats flying out in waves at sunset
Local farm tours – See rice, banana, and fish farming up close
The local cuisine is flavorful and affordable. Try:
Battambang noodles (Num Banh Chok)
Freshwater fish dishes
Local rice wine, tropical fruits, and sticky rice in bamboo (Kralan)
The city has cozy cafes, art-filled restaurants, and vibrant local markets.
Discover Cambodia’s artistic and cultural soul
Enjoy historical temples and peaceful riverside strolls
Explore the countryside by bike or tuk-tuk
Engage with friendly locals and community-run projects
A perfect stop between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh
🧠Battambang is where Cambodia tells its story through art, history, and hospitality — a place to slow down and see the soul of the country.
