Introduction & Overview to Battambang
Battambang is a city in northwestern Cambodia and the capital of Battambang Province. The city has a population of about 1,000,000 people and is the second-largest city in Cambodia. It is also one of the oldest cities in Southeast Asia, dating back to the 9th century. Battambang is located on the Sangkae River and is a major rice-growing region. The city is also known for its bamboo train, which runs on a 7 km (4 mi) long track through rice fields and jungle.
Places to Visit in Battambang
There are a number of places to visit in Battambang that are off the beaten path. Here are just a few of the many hidden gems that can be found in this Cambodian city:
The Wat Kor Monastery is a beautiful Buddhist temple that is hidden away in a quiet residential neighbourhood. The monastery is home to a number of monks and also has a small museum on site.
The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is a sobering reminder of Cambodia’s dark past. The museum is located in a former school that was turned into a prison and torture centre during the Khmer Rouge regime. There are displays of some of the methods used to torture prisoners, as well as photos and biographies of some of those who perished here.
The Ouvrage de Bakri is an abandoned French fort that is now home to a number of shops and restaurants. The fort offers stunning views over Battambang and the nearby countryside.
Adventurous Things to Do
Battambang is a charming Cambodian city with a rich history and plenty of off-the-beaten path adventures to explore. If you’re looking for something different to do on your next trip, consider one of these adventurers things to do in Battambang.
1. Visit the Phnom Sampeau Bat Cave This cave is home to tens of thousands of bats, and it’s an impressive sight to see them all take flight at sunset. You can reach the cave by climbing up 1,000 steps (a bit of a workout!), or you can take the cable car for a small fee.
2. Take a ride on the bamboo train The bamboo train is a local transportation method that’s unique to Battambang. It’s basically a flatbed cart that runs along railroad tracks, and it’s great fun for kids (and adults!) to ride. Just be sure to hop off when another train is coming from the opposite direction!
3. Explore Wat Banan Temple Wat Banan is a beautiful temple complex that’s set atop a hill with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. It’s well worth the climb up the stairs to reach it!
Local Experiences
When most travelers think of Cambodia, they picture the country’s famous temples at Angkor Wat. But there’s so much more to this Southeast Asian nation than its ancient ruins. The city of Battambang is a great example of Cambodia’s hidden gems.
Off the beaten path experiences in Battambang include exploring the city’s French colonial architecture, taking a ride on the bamboo train, and visiting the Phnom Sampeau bat caves. Travelers can also learn about Khmer culture and history at the Battambang Regional Museum and take a boat ride down the Sangker River.
-Sampling Local Cuisine
If you find yourself in Battambang, you absolutely must try the local cuisine! Battambang is known for its rice noodles, so be sure to order a bowl of kuy teav (noodle soup) at one of the many street stalls. For something a little heartier, opt for bánh chả quế (a grilled pork and vegetable rice noodle dish). And don’t forget to wash it all down with a refreshing glass of sugar cane juice – it’s the perfect way to cool off on a hot day.
-Attending Festivals & Events
Battambang province is home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year. From the water festival in April to the rice harvest festival in November, there is always something to celebrate. Attending one of these festivals is a great way to immerse yourself in local culture and get a taste of authentic Cambodian cuisine.
The rice harvest festival, or Pchum Ben, is another popular event held in Battambang province. It takes place over a period of 15 days in October or November, depending on the lunar calendar. During this time, temples are opened for pilgrims to pay respects to their ancestors. Offerings of food are made at altars, and special ceremonies are held to bless the new crop of rice.
Conclusion
So there you have it, our guide to exploring the hidden gems of Battambang. From magical waterfalls to beautiful temples and more – there are plenty of off-the-beaten path adventures for you to explore in this magical Cambodian town. So why not take a break from ordinary life and embark on your own journey through Battambang? You never know what treasures await!