Things To Do
in Battambang
Battambang is a charming city located in northwestern Cambodia, known for its well-preserved French colonial architecture. The city is also famous for its thriving arts scene, with numerous art galleries and studios showcasing traditional and contemporary Cambodian art. Visitors can explore the picturesque countryside surrounding Battambang, dotted with ancient temples and lush rice paddies.
The city's laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals make it a welcoming destination for travelers seeking an authentic Cambodian experience.
- "Soksabai?" - How are you?
- "Arun sua" - Good morning
- "Orkun" - Thank you
- "Som tos" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Chhnang" - Very good
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Battambang Psar Market for a taste of local fruits and snacks. It's a great place to interact with locals and buy unique souvenirs.
Visit the nearby Battambang Provincial Museum to learn about the area's history and culture. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the city's charming streets.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant offering traditional Khmer cuisine. Consider watching the sunset by the riverside.
Rent a bicycle and explore the countryside around Battambang. Stop at local rice paddies and take in the scenic views.
Visit the infamous bamboo train and take a ride through the picturesque landscape. Experience the thrill of this unique mode of transportation.
Head back into town and enjoy a casual meal at a local eatery. Try some street food options for a true local experience.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with many temples and historical sites.
- Lively local markets offering fresh produce and local delicacies.
- Scenic countryside and picturesque landscapes, ideal for exploration.
- Friendly and welcoming locals who are eager to share their culture.
- Less touristy compared to other Cambodian cities like Siem Reap, providing a more authentic experience.
- Limited infrastructure and fewer amenities compared to more developed cities.
- Hot and humid climate may be uncomfortable for some visitors.
- Language barrier, as English is not widely spoken outside tourist areas.
- Transportation options may be limited, requiring some planning for travel.
- Health facilities and medical services may not be as advanced as in major urban centers.
Best Activities in Battambang
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the picturesque limestone mountain with cave temples and stunning views of the countryside.
Experience the unique and thrilling ride on the bamboo train, offering scenic views of the countryside.
Explore the rural landscapes and local villages on a cycling tour around Battambang.
Tours
Uncover the best of Battambang with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Battambang
Visit one of these nice places.
Explore the stunning limestone caves and witness thousands of bats streaming out at sunset for a breathtaking spectacle.
Visit this hilltop temple to enjoy panoramic views of the countryside and striking natural landscapes, including the impressive bat caves.
Ride the bamboo train through picturesque countryside for unique and scenic photo opportunities.
Food in Battambang
Battambang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular breakfast dish consisting of rice noodles topped with a fish-based green curry sauce, fresh vegetables, and herbs. It's typically sold by street vendors or small local eateries.
Must-Try!
A traditional Khmer sticky rice cake made with coconut milk, beans, and grated coconut, roasted in bamboo tubes. Look for it at local markets or from street food stalls.
A beloved breakfast dish of grilled pork served over rice, often accompanied by fresh pickles and a side of chicken broth. It can be found in local eateries and food stalls.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Battambang better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Battambang's central market, where you can sample a wide variety of street food such as skewered meats, soups, grilled seafood, and tropical fruits. It's a great place to immerse in the local food scene.
A bustling market by the Sangker River offering an array of street food options, from barbecued delicacies to delectable desserts. It's a fantastic spot to experience the city's evening culinary delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Battambang, it is important to show respect for elders by using proper language and gestures, such as the traditional sampeah (placing palms together in a prayer-like gesture) when greeting older individuals.
When visiting temples and other religious sites in Battambang, it is important to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as a sign of respect for the local culture and customs.
Greetings in Battambang often involve a slight bow of the head and a warm smile. It is also common to use the formal 'Chum reap suor' ('Hello') when meeting someone for the first time or in formal settings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Battambang with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Battambang
Ensure a smooth experience
In Battambang, Cambodia, tipping is not a common practice. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or for taxi services. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip may be appreciated.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Battambang, Cambodia. Credit and debit cards are not widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. It is advisable to carry sufficient cash for daily transactions, and it is recommended to exchange money at official currency exchange counters.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Battambang.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Battambang, with warm temperatures and little to no rainfall. Expect clear skies and ideal conditions for exploring the city and surrounding areas.
Expect higher temperatures and increased rainfall during this period. The countryside becomes green and lush, and while travel can be affected by occasional heavy rainfall, it's a good time to experience the natural beauty of Battambang.
Battambang at Night
Hiking in Battambang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located a few hours from Battambang, Bokor National Park offers extensive hiking trails through lush forests, waterfalls, and views of the Gulf of Thailand.
A popular site that features limestone mountains, caves, and beautiful sunset views. The hiking paths lead to the top where you can see ancient temples and stunning landscapes.
Although a bit further away, the Koh Ker area provides trails among ancient ruins and dense jungle, making for a unique hiking experience.
This park features pine forests and rolling hills with several hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging, perfect for a day trip from Battambang.
A scenic destination that offers hiking paths along its beaches and inland areas, ideal for exploring nature and enjoying the coastal scenery.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Battambang through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Battambang by plane.
Located approximately 169 km from Battambang, this airport serves as the main gateway to the Angkor Wat temple complex.
Situated about 290 km from Battambang, it is the largest airport in Cambodia and the main international gateway to the country.
Located approximately 370 km from Battambang, this airport serves the coastal region of Sihanoukville and its surrounding areas.
This airport is approximately 292 km from Battambang and serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Battambang, making up the majority of the population.
A significant minority in Battambang, primarily engaged in trade and business activities.
A notable presence in Battambang, often involved in agricultural and labor sectors.
A smaller community, primarily Muslim, with distinct cultural practices.
Includes various smaller groups such as indigenous peoples and migrant workers from neighboring countries.
The Soul of Battambang
Discover the essence of Battambang through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Battambang, with many local teams and a strong community following.
This is a unique sport in Cambodia that has deep cultural roots and is often practiced during festivals.
Badminton is widely played in Battambang, both recreationally and competitively, with numerous courts available.
Basketball has gained popularity in urban areas, with many young people playing in local courts and schools.
This traditional Southeast Asian sport combines volleyball and soccer elements, and is played by many in Battambang.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Battambang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Cambodian cuisine traditionally features a lot of meat, many restaurants in Battambang, especially those catering to tourists, offer a good selection of vegetarian and even vegan dishes. It's advisable to communicate your dietary preferences clearly when ordering.
Visitors with gluten intolerance will find that some restaurants and cafes in Battambang provide gluten-free alternatives, particularly those with a focus on health-conscious menus. However, it's recommended to inquire about ingredients and food preparation to ensure suitability.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Battambang with these cultural adventures.
