Must-see activities in Battambang

Are you traveling to Cambodia and planning to stay in Battambang? What a wonderful idea! As the second-largest city in the country, Battambang is renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and numerous cultural treasures. To ensure you don’t miss out on any of the essentials, here are the best things to do and see in Battambang. 

1. Visit the Wat Ek Phnom Temple

Located near the Sangkae River, about 10 kilometers north of Battambang, the Wat Ek Phnom temple is a gem of Angkorian Hindu architecture. Built in the 11th century during the reign of King Suryavarman I, it consists of a series of small temples on a sandstone platform. Although only ruins partially buried in vegetation remain, you can still admire beautiful pediments and bas-reliefs that have survived the ravages of time, offering a glimpse into Cambodia’s history. Later, a Buddhist pagoda and a massive Buddha statue were added, greeting visitors upon arrival. 

2. Visit the Wat Banan Temple

Wat Banan is one of the most important and beautiful temples in Battambang. Located 20 kilometers south of the city, it was built in the mid-11th century by King Tak Oui Tit Ut TyaVarman II (1050-1066). What makes it unique? Although it predates the Angkor temples, Wat Banan strikingly resembles a miniature version of these famous temples. This Brahmanical sanctuary provides a grand insight into Khmer architecture. Near the temple, you can also explore several caves, including the sacred Kuthea Preah Teuk cave.

3. Take a ride on the Bamboo Train

The Bamboo Train is one of Battambang’s must-see attractions. Once used in the 1970s by railway workers, soldiers, and locals to transport passengers and goods, the bamboo train is now a popular tourist attraction. It consists of a bamboo platform mounted on metal wheels. The bamboo train in Battambang runs along a decommissioned railway line through the countryside. It’s a fun family activity and offers a chance to explore the surrounding rural landscapes of Cambodia.

4. Explore Phnom Sampov mountain, its religious sanctuaries, and caves 

Located about 12 kilometers southwest of the city, Phnom Sampov is a sacred mountain. Standing 140 meters tall, it requires a climb up many steps to reach the summit. But the effort is worth it, as from the top, you can enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding plains and visit several points of interest. Among these, you’ll find the religious sanctuaries of Phnom Sampov, with numerous Buddha statues, Angkorian warrior statues, and a golden stupa, a major pilgrimage site. In addition to the temples, you can explore several caves, including Pkasla, Lakhaon, and Ak Sopheak, two of which are known as "killing caves" that were used as prisons by the Khmer Rouge torturers. Along the road leading to the hill, you’ll also encounter many monkeys.

5. Admire the bat flight

While in Phnom Sampov, we recommend staying until sunset to witness a natural spectacle: the flight of the bats. The mountain is home to caves where thousands of bats emerge at dusk to search for food. This breathtaking sight is a must-see!

6. Cycle around Battambang and its surroundings

What better way to explore Battambang and its surroundings than by bicycle? An eco-friendly mode of transport, the bicycle allows you to visit the city's key sites while meeting the locals. You can cycle through the city center to see the Governor’s House, the Ta Dumbong statue, colonial-style houses by the river, and other natural and architectural wonders. Cycling is also an excellent way to explore the countryside around Battambang. Whether solo or in a group, you can enjoy a ride through the heart of Battambang’s countryside, passing rivers, rice fields, farms, and fields. Some tours even bring you to the foot of Phnom Sampov to explore its treasures. You can also join a cycling tour in Battambang to learn about the local craftsmanship, such as bamboo cakes, rice wine, rice paper, rice farming, and pottery. Don’t forget to stop by Battambang’s vineyards, the only wine-producing region in Cambodia. 

7. Visit the Phare Ponleu Selpak NGO in Battambang and attend a circus performance

Phare Ponleu Selpak is a Cambodian NGO established in 1994. Originally, its goal was to allow victims of the Khmer Rouge regime to express themselves artistically and culturally. Today, it is an educational NGO offering free general education to complement the Cambodian public school curriculum. Children and young adults come here to enhance their schooling and also receive training in artistic fields such as circus, music, dance, painting, and theater. It includes a social center, a kindergarten, a community preschool, a visual arts school, and a performing arts school. To discover and support the organization, you can take a guided tour of Phare Ponleu Selpak during the week and even attend a circus performance held 3 to 4 nights a week, depending on the season: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday from October to March, and Monday, Thursday, and Saturday from April to September (doors open at 6 PM).

8. Visit the Psar Nat Market and taste local specialties

What better way to immerse yourself in local culture than by visiting a market? Head to the must-see Psar Nat market in the city center. Housed in a yellow Art Deco building with a square clock tower, the market was designed in 1936 by architect Jean Desbois. Here you can find a variety of goods, including hardware, jewelry, accessories, and food stands. A few stalls offer local dishes, giving you a chance to try some of the region’s culinary specialties, such as bobor phek (a vegetable and seafood soup), banh chiao (a soy and fish pancake flavored with turmeric), or kralaan (bamboo cake).

Florine Dergelet