Battambang Province

Battambang is home to a population exceeding 1 million individuals, with approximately 13% residing in the city itself. Similar to many regions in Cambodia, a significant portion of the populace consists of rural rice farmers, making the province the foremost rice producer in the nation. The city gained prominence as a vital trading hub during the French Protectorate, owing to its convenient connections to Thailand and the waterways of the Tonle Sap.

The civil war had a profound impact on Battambang, as it served as a stronghold for the Khmer Rouge, with hostilities persisting in the area until 1996. During this tumultuous time, the city was largely inaccessible to most visitors, being situated on the front lines of the conflict. Government forces would typically manage to push the Khmer Rouge back towards the neighboring Pailin during the dry season, only to lose much of that territory again with the onset of the monsoon rains. While Battambang has not evolved into a tourist hotspot like Siem Reap, the province remains relatively affluent, largely due to the prosperity of its agricultural industry.

Battambang’s city center stands as a notable attraction in its own right. Adorned with stunning pagodas and French colonial architecture, it presents a stark contrast to Siem Reap, bustling with activity during the day and settling into a serene calm at night. Spending a few hours exploring the streets is highly recommended; one can admire the shophouse architecture, enjoy refreshments at local coffee shops, and participate in Khmer-style aerobics by the riverside at sunset.

• pagodas in Battambang: The pagodas in Battambang are often regarded as some of the most exquisite in the nation. Legend has it that the officer in charge during the Khmer Rouge era held such a deep appreciation for the pagodas that he refrained from executing orders to demolish these sacred structures. As a result, they have remained largely intact despite the regime’s impact and the ensuing civil conflict. Wat TahmRai Saw, located at the terminus of streets 2 and 2.5, is famously known as the white elephant temple and is likely the most frequented due to its intricate design. In addition, Wat Kandal, situated at the end of a tranquil street on the opposite bank of the river, is equally picturesque.
• The Circus: A visit to Battambang is incomplete without experiencing the circus, a notable attraction in the area. The French NGO Phare Ponleu Selpak, which translates to “the brightness of the arts,” provides various artistic training programs, including circus skills, to vulnerable children in the local community. Graduates of this institution perform hour-long shows four times a week under the organization’s big top tent. These performances are vibrant and feature astonishing acrobatics, making them a must-see. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy a complimentary drink in the small art gallery, where the works of other young artists are exhibited and available for purchase. An evening spent appreciating the talents of Phare’s artists offers a wonderful opportunity to witness the potential of Cambodia’s younger generation.
• Phnom Sampov: In addition to the circus, Battambang boasts other attractions located a short distance from the city. Phnom Sampov, situated 12 kilometers away, rises 330 feet above the surrounding flatlands, providing breathtaking views from the temple located at its summit. Visitors can hike to the top, although the journey can be quite warm, or they may opt to hire moto drivers who can take them most of the way for a negotiated fare. The caves beneath the mountain, known as the “Killing Caves,” are a somber reminder of the atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge regime and now serve as a tranquil memorial for the victims who lost their lives there.
• Bamboo Train: The Bamboo Train is a well-known, albeit somewhat unusual, attraction situated approximately 5 kilometers from the town center. In Cambodia, where there is no formal rail service, the local community utilizes the existing tracks along with bamboo platforms mounted on wheels to transport goods between villages. Additionally, they now offer rides to tourists for a fee of $5 each, providing a 20-minute journey between the villages. This round trip includes a pause to reverse the “train” and allows local children to earn some money by offering tours of the nearby rice mill and brick factory. It is advisable to experience this activity earlier in the day to avoid the heat, as there is no shade available, making it an enjoyable way to explore the countryside.

The climate in Battambang mirrors that of much of Cambodia, characterized by a hot and humid season from May to November, followed by a hot and dry season from December to May. During the wet season, significant portions of the eastern region of the province become inundated due to the flooding of the Tonle Sap.

Should your itinerary permit, a trip to Battambang is strongly advised. Despite being only a four-hour bus journey from Siem Reap (or just under three hours by taxi), it remains relatively unexplored by tourists, making it an ideal destination for a tranquil weekend and an opportunity to experience Cambodia at a more relaxed pace.

Opting to visit Battambang province offers a unique blend of historical significance, cultural richness, and stunning natural landscapes. This region has emerged as an essential destination for individuals seeking to experience the authentic charm of Cambodia. It is anticipated that this article from RT Cambodia Travel will provide valuable insights about the province and highlight intriguing attractions for travelers considering Battambang as their travel choice.