Battambang is Cambodia's second-largest city and the capital of Battambang Province, which was founded in the 11th century. It is the former capital of Monton Kmer and lies in the heart of the Northwest of Cambodia. Until the war years, in which almost every infrastructure was destructed it was the leading rice-producing province of the country.
The name Battambang or Batdambang, literally means "loss of stick" referring to a legend of the Preah Bat Dambang Kranhoung (Kranhoung Stick King). The population is nowadays around 250,000 people . It's a riverside town, home to some of the best-preserved, French colonial architecture in the country.
Until recently Battambang was off the map for road travellers, but facilities have recently been improved and it makes a great base for visiting the nearby temples, such as Phnom Banon and Wat Ek Phnom, as well as the closedby villages.
It's a secondary hub on the overland route between Thailand and Vietnam, and if the National Highway No 6 from Poipet to Siem Reap is ever upgraded it'll become an even smaller hub. The network of charming old French shop houses clustered along the riverbank is the real highlight here, and there are a number of Wats scattered around the town.
The small museum has a collection of Angkorian-era artifacts, and beyond the town there's a number of hilltop temples, yet more Wats and a pretty large lake. One of the more famous hills is Phnom Sampeau (Ship Hill) with the notorious killing caves.
Battambang did not give way to the Khmer Rouge movement after the fall of Phnom Penh, but it?s been in the centre of the ongoing government Khmer Rouge conflict ever since the Vietnamese invasion in 1979 pushed the genocidal regime out of Phnom Penh and to the Northwest. Until the surrender deal of Ieng Sary (Khmer Rouge number three man based in Pailin),Battambang was the Khmer Rouge stronghold in the region.
In the earlier history Battambang flip-flopped back and forth between Thailand (called Siam before their 20th-century renaming) and Cambodia. It's been a part of Thailand most of the time since the 15th century, with Cambodia regaining control (more specifically due the French) in 1907. The Thais grabbed it again, with Japanese assistance, in 1941 and kept the region in their camp until the World War II years in 1947.
The Allied Forces helped persuade the Thais that the region was originally part of ancient Cambodia and the world community would not take kindly to the Thais holding onto it further. Like the rest of the Northwest, there is still a lot of Thai influence apparent. The main currency is still the Thai Baht and many people are able to converse in Thai. But the area is very Khmer, with ancient Khmer ruins scattered around, and even the ways of life are much more similar to the rest of Cambodia than to Thailand.
Battambang city is a peaceful and pleasant place these days. The main parts of the city are situated closed to the Sangker River, a tranquil, small body of water that winds its way through Battambang Province. It is a nice, picturesque setting. As with much of Cambodia, the French architecture is an attractive bonus of the city.
Geography
Population
The population census in 2007 shows that Battambang is a densely populated province with male 511,378 and female 525,145 and total population of 1,036,523 people. The population density is 68 per km2, which is slightly higher than the national density of 64. The population of this province constitutes 6.9% of the whole Cambodian population. The percentage of female population accounts for 51%.
Economy
How to Get There
The provincial capital of Battambang is the second largest city in Cambodia (2007 estimated population around 1/4 million people). It is located in one of the biggest rice-growing areas in Southeast Asia. The average altitude of the province is around 50m. The province is bordering to the North with Banteay Meanchey, to the West with Thailand, to the East and South with Pursat and the great lake Tonle Sap.
The country's total surface is about 11,702 sq/km with around 67.7 inh/sqkm. The city is on both the highway and railroad linking Phnom Penh with Thailand; after the outbreak (1970) of civil war in Cambodia, the Battambang-Phnom Penh road was a prime target of the Khmer Rouge insurgents, who, by capturing it, severed Phnom Penh from its major source of rice.Battambang was acquired by Thailand in 1809 and returned to Cambodia in 1907. The city has also a technical university.Population
Economy
The Battambang Rice were the principal exports of Cambodia, but exports fell sharply after the onset of the civil war, which put most of the rubber plantations out of operation. By the 1990s, however, rubber plantings had been undertaken as part of a national recovery program. When we talk about tropical fruites, the Battambang orange is the most famous among the people. Until recently, inadequate transportation hampered exploitation of the country's vast forests, but by the mid-1990s timber had become the largest source of export income.
Exploitation of mineral resources like phosphate rock, limestone, semiprecious stones, and salt supports important local mining operations. Inflation was 1.6% in 2002, whereas official unemployment figures amounted to 2.6%. Due to closed Thailand there is quite a lot of financial influx from foreign (Thai) investors.
From Phnom Penh to Battambang it's about 291km via national road number 5. It is accessable from Thailand via Pailin, Banteay Meanchey. Generally from Siem Reap to Battambang can be via air and overland. Today, there is no operating flight to this province yet at the moment.
Speed Boat During the rainy season, it's a good alternative to the shared taxi. The road from Siem Reap to Sisophanis is quite lousy. So therefore it's best to take the opportunity of a nice and relaxing boat trip. The dry season eventually makes this impassable as the river water level goes down. Departing from Siem Reap taking the 7 am boat, you'll arrive at Battambang about 10:30 am. The cost is around US$ 10-15 per person, depending on demand. So it's negotiable. Departing from Phnom Penh taking the 7-8am boat, you'll arrive at Battambang around 3-4pm. The cost is around US$ 16-22 per person.
Share Taxi Battambang to Phnom Penh 300 baht (US$ 10) Battambang to Sisophon 50 baht (US$ 1.7) Battambang to Pursat 100 baht (US$ 3.4)
Train The old saying goes there is no such thing as a free lunch, but in Cambodia, the old train is still free. for foreigners, that's it. However, it will just cost you some time (maybe some officers will ask you for a creative donation). The Phnom Penh to Battambang journey usually takes about thirteen to fourteen hours, if no mishaps occure. The scenery is not nearly as stunning as parts of the Phnom Penh-Kampot-Sihanoukville routes, but you certainly will get a good sampling of rural agriculture scenery.
Schedule: Phnom Penh to Battambang -departs between 6:20 & 7 am daily Sisophon to Battambang -departs at around 2 pm daily Battambang to Phnom Penh -departs between 6:30 & 7 am daily Battambang to Sisophon -departs between 6:45 & 7:15 am daily.
Motorcycle Touring Info Riding by motorcycle is the best way to see the countryside and the sights along the way. You may stop by at some pagodas or ancient temples on the national road No 5.
Battambang to Phnom Penh:
It's a tough but definitely doable road if you are on a motorcycle circuit tour. They are slowly (slower than an ant's pace) resurfacing sections between Battambang, Pursat and Kampong Chhnang, from which the road is then pretty fair to Phnom Penh. On the Battambang -Phnom Penh highway, daytime security is not a problem, but at night scores of military checkpoints spring up with logs being put across the road so that vehicles stop. They just want a toll fee but it's not a fun time of the day to be dealing with the soldiers as they are pretty liquored up by then. Avoid possible problems and just ride of taxi during daylight hours.
Battambang to Sisophon
The trip is about 64 km and takes about 11/2 hours. Battambang to Pursat is about 103 km and takes about three hours. Battambang to Phnom Penh takes about six to eight hours, depending greatly on whether you are riding yourself or in a share taxi (which mostly takes longer). The road between Battambang and Pailin is a very rough road that has only a few decent stretches -it's a lot better than it was a few years back, but that knowledge won?t mean much to your sore tail-side.
Security is not a problem. Getting to Phnom Banan is easy-just head south on the River Road (Road1) about 20 km, which at a moderate pace should take just over half and hour. You can't miss the big hill with the temple on top, visible on the right side of the road.
Turn right at the dirt road that runs smack into the middle of the hill. There are drinks and snack stands near the base of the stairway going up. There is also a dirt road going to the left by the stands that you could take up, but take the stairway as the Khmers did at the time the temple was in use.It's part of the fun. A round-trip moto-taxi from Battambang is approximately 120 baht (US$ 4.5) including their waiting time.
Banteay Sat Temple
Banteay Sat How is 105 km (2h) From Provincial Town. Historical Sites and Buildings, Location: Koh Village, Kaoh Chiveang Commune, Aek Phnom District.
Barsaet Temple
Barsaet Temple is located in Barsaet Villlage, Tapoan commune, Sangke District, about 15 kilometers east of Battambang provincial town. The temple was built in the 11th century, between AD 1036 and 1042, during the region of King Suryavarman I (AD 1002-1050). This temple was seriously damaged, and only the door frame remains. Next to this temple, there is an ancient pond that is 20 meters long, 12 meters wide and 10 meters deep. It hold water year round.
Dang Tung
Dang Tung, Battambang is frequently accessed by leisure tourists touring the second largest city and the capital of the Battambang Province. Locally known as Phratabong, the city of Battambang is an elegant riverside town which dates back to the 11th Century. Home to few of the best preserved colonial architecture of Cambodia, the city of Battambang is also famous for its large density of natural wonders including the Dang Tung, Battambang. The Dang Tung is one of the popular tourist attractions in Battambang. Located approximately 54 kilometers from the provincial town, the tourists can simply avail public transportation to cover the 3 hour journey to Dang Tung in Battambang. The Dang Tung, Battambang is very popular mainly among the nature lovers as it is one of the natural wildlife preserves which is a scenic delight, impressing the tourists venturing down to its premier location at Danng Tung Village at Rattanakmundul District. Tourists must remember that the summer at Battambang is very hot therefore one must plan a holiday during the winter season when the province experiences a more subtle and cooler climatic condition. One can avail one of the tour packages which include Dang Tung, Battambang in the day itinerary and offer a more hassle-free trip to the natural paradise called Dang Tung.
This one is for your journey to Sisophan if you are heading that way (60 km or so from Battambang ). It's easy to spot from the road. See the Sisophan section for more details.
Kamping Puoy Bassin
Kamping Pouy Bassin is located between two mountains Phnom Ku or Phnom Ta Ngen and Phnom Kamping Pouy - in Ta Nget Village, Ta Kream Srok commune, about 35 kilometers west of the provincial town.This gigantic civil-engineering project was central to the Khmer Rouge?s plan to irrigate the countryside around Battambang. Tragically, the construction of the Kamping Puoy Reservoir resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands of people. Unlike the victims of S21 and Choeung Ek most of the deaths on the Kamping Puoy project were caused by malnutrition, disease, overwork or mistreatment. The deaths were in short, preventable.
A gripping, visceral and painfully honest account of life in Battambang under the Khmer Rouge was written by Haing S. Ngor, the Cambodian doctor, actor and community worker who won an oscar for the film The Killing Fields. His book Survival in Cambodia's Killing Fields is perhaps the most eloquent account of day-to-day life during the Pol Pot period. It is laced with insights into the Khmer psyche and is ultimately a heartbreaking read. Kamping Pouy Bassin is 6meters long and 1,900 meters wide. During the rainy season the basin can hold 110 million cubic metere of water, which is used primarily for agriculture. Kamping Pouy basin is vital to this area. It is now a popular picnic site for residents of Pailin and Battambang because of its fresh air. Lotus flowers grow in the water and nearby you can buy lotus seeds to eat (they are delicious and taste a bit like sweet, uncooked peas). Takream Commune in Banan District is the nearest settlement.
Adapts the architecture of mid 11th century and the end of 12th century the temple was first built by king, Ut Tak Yea Tit Tya Varman II (1050-1066) and then was finally built by the king, Jarvarman VII (1181-1219). The temple is located on the top of approximate 400-meter heighten mountain at Kon Tey 2 commune, Ba Nan District in 25-kilometer distance from the provincial town by the provincial Road No 155 parallel to Sang Ke River. At the mountain's valley, there are Ku Teuk and two main natural wells, namely: Bit Meas and Chhung or Chhung Achey.
This Angkor-era mountaintop temple is definitely worth a look. At the top are beautiful views of the winding Sangker River set amidst sugar palm trees, rice fields and small villages. To the south you will see a mountain range that features a crocodile shaped mountain. The temple itself is beautiful looking from the ground as well as the top. The structures are pretty much intact, but unfortunately like so many Khmer ruins, they have fallen victim to massive looting. Still, there are some interesting works to see. There are five temple structures, like Angkor, with the middle being the largest. (Use caution around the entrance to the center structure-there is a large hanging block-a headache-in-waiting for some poor soul).
As with Preah Vihear Temple (close to the Thai border in the province of the same name), there are a couple of big guns on the mountaintop next to the ruins. The guns are still pointing down at the surrounding area as they were during the more recent years of the government-Khmer Rouge skirmishes.It's part of the sad irony of Cambodia that a place built for worship, harmony and tranquility was utilized as a place for making war. Looking down the hillside to the southwest you can see more of the ruins. As always, if you go looking around, STAY ON THE WORN PATHWAYS AND TRAILS- there may still be undiscovered landmines.
Phnom Kdoung
Phnom Kdoung How to go: 14 km (1h) From Provincial Town. Location: Description: Nature wildlife and Preserves, Location: Kdong Village, Phnom Sampov Commune. Banann District.
Phnom Trong Morn Trong Tea
Phnom Trong Morn Trong Tea, Battambang is one of the place which is filled with abundant number of flora and fauna and are well liked by the nature loving tourists in particular. This is the place which comes as one of the important tourist destination where you are going to enjoy a whole days' trip and find it to be a place to remember for a long time for its endless beauty. The place is widely popular for its rich treasure of natural vegetation. Phnom Trong Morn Trong Tea is a place belongs to the category of Nature wildlife and Preserves.
So, the adventure loving enthusiasts find the place to be of great value and arrange frequent trips to this scenic destination. The place boasts of various types of wild animals that are provided natural surroundings. The actual location of Phnom Trong Morn Trong Tea is in the region of Samnagn Village which is located in the Phnom Sampov Commune. This place is situated in the district of Banann. This place is very popular as a great spot for natural beauty. As you plan for a visit to this place during your trip to Battambang, you must start your journey in the Provincial Town.
There are transportation modes available for the tourists which will bring you to the entry point of the Phnom Trong Morn Trong Tea. It is approximately fifteen kilometers away from the Provincial Town and it is going to take about forty minutes to get to the actual destination. The journey is going to be a nice one filled with lots of excitement and fun. You are going to enjoy the trip if you really love to be a part of adventure trip. As you step inside the preserve area you are going to be amidst various types of wild animals in their natural habitats. It is the place which is well known for adventure and excursion trips that are arranged by various tourist agencies. The best part is that you are going to enjoy them in their natural surroundings.
Pich Chenda, Battambang is one of the premier destinations in Cambodia which is included in the itinerary of the tourists and sightseers arriving in the country. Pich Chenda, Battambang is one of the natural tourism sites of the city which is also recognized as the second largest city of the country. Battambang being the second largest city of Cambodia attracts a large section of leisure tourists. Housing large number of historic architectural marvels, the city of Battambang also comprises of scenic natural wonders which dot the cityscape.
One of the popular tourist attractions in Battambang is Pich Chenda. Most of the tourists like to visit this premier destination which lies along most of the other tourism sites like Sek Sak and Dang Tung. The Pich Chenda in Battambang is located along the Rattanakmundul District and one can reach via road transportation from the heart of the Cambodian city. Most of the tourist avail tour packages especially during the winter or the autumn season. At this time of the year the weather is milder and cooler making traveling a pleasurable experience for the tourists and family vacationers.
The Sneung temples are devided into two parts - East Sneung and West Sneung. The East Sneung temple is located in Sneung Pagoda, Sneung Commune, Banan Distric, about 22kilometers soutwest of the provincial town. The temple, constructed of bricks on a hill, is 30meters long and 20meters wide. It features three separate shrines and is similar in style to other temples built during the 12th century. Behind the temple is a newer temple.The West Sneung temple is constructed of sandstone and is located near National Road 57 (The former National Road 10)
Prek Toal Bird Sanctury
Prek Toal Bird sanctury, on the Tinle Sap, is home to 120 bird species, many endangered. From January throught June it is a breeding ground for dozens of species includding storks, ibises, cormrants, pelicans and adjuncts. During the rainy season you can visit the flooded forest and watch locals lifestyle earning their living by fishing.
Prek Toal is an entire village, Koh Chi Vang commune, Ek Phnom district, like most floating village, it is a sophisticated and bustling township of fisher-folk, boat builder and businessmen, providing everything which a town on dry land can provide it population. You can travel there by boat from/to Battambang and from/to Siem Reap. One boat costs $70-80, so it is better to go in large group.
River Sightseeing & Boat Rentals
Just north of the Cobra Bridge, on the west bank, you will see a lot of boats hugging he riverbank. You can hire a non-motorized small wooden boat for around 4,000 Riel, and a motorized boat (if available) for around USD5 an hour. It?s a pleasant way to wee the river life around Battambang town. There is also a boat you can take to Siem Reap for a smooth alternative to the lousy highway (see Coming and Going section).
Sampeou Mountain
Phnom Sampeou is a natural site located along National Road 57 in Sampeou Commune, Battambang district, about 12Kilometers of Battambang city. Atop a 100-meter-high mountain stands a pagoda and threee natural caves: Pkasla, Lakhaon and Aksopheak. Pkasla cave is full of uprooted stones and is considered important because it is where Phnom Sampeou residents come to celebrate after a marriage. Next to Phnom Sampeou are several important mountain clusters, including Phnom Kdaong, Phnom Krapeu(The Crocodile Mountain), Phnom Trung Moan, Phnom Trung Teat and Phnom Neang Romsay Sok. All are related to the Khmer Folktale titled Reachkol Neang Romsay Sok.
Phnom Sampeou means 'Ship mountain' because its peculiar shape reminds of a ship. This legendary 100 metres high mountain, topped by Wat Sampeou, contains 3 natural caves, lined with Buddhist shrines and statues: Pkasla, Lakhaon and Aksopheak. Pkasla cave is full of uprooted stones and is considered important because Sampeou inhabitants go there to celebrate after a marriage. Some caves were used by the Khmer Rouges as killing caves. Skeletons of their victims still remain in the caves. The wat is approached by a flight of 700 stairs. It is not exceptional but the view is spectacular. Next to Phnom Sampeou are several important mountain clusters.
Phnom Sampeou rises from the rice paddys of Southwestern Cambodia to a height of only 2500 feet, by my very generous estimate. So why should it have a page here? A few reasons:First, Cambodia does not have a single mountain currently listed on Summitpost, despite the fact that Cambodia actually has some perfectly respectable mountains (including Phnom Aural, at 5,948 feet) set in some of the most ecologically unique settings on the planet. Maybe Phnom Sampeou is not the most interesting mountain in Cambodia, but it is a good start.
Located approximately 15 kilometers outside of Cambodia's second largest city , Battambang, Phnom Sampeou rests on the Northern end of the D?mrei Mountains (literally "Elephant Mountains"), which fall into the Gulf of Thailand to the South and connect to the Kr?vanh Mountains (literally "Cardamom Mountains") to the East. Phnom Sampeou is composed of limestone and dotted with caves, and was an important setting for battles between the Khmer Rouge and military forces in the 1980s. This legacy still marks the mountain in two ways: first is the aging anti-aircraft guns staged near the top, and second is the presence of human remains--a product of the Khmer Rouge's genodical campaigns--that can still be found in the caves in Phnom Sampeou. Not for the light-hearted, exactly, but memorable and important. Phnom Sampeou also houses two important Buddhist wats.
Phnom Sampeou is riddled with far more caves than you can possibly access without putting yourself in serious danger (see "red tape"). This becomes apparent at dusk, when millions--literally, millions--of small bats come bursting out of the mountain in several directions. They form a steady stream toward the countryside, where they spend the evening stuffing themselves with insects. In case this isn't obvious, you might want to leave the caves before dusk.The bats are far from the scariest thing in the caves, however. The Khmer rouge executed thousands of people on Phnom Sampeou, and many were thrown through the roof of one of the caves and left to die in the cold and dark. One example of this can be found near the summit (any of the monks can show you, although the might want a donation). Some of the bones left in the cave can be found in a cage, others are piled near the walkway. Yikes.
Phnom Sampeou is one of the most popular visitor attractions in the whole of Cambodia ? and looking at it, it is not hard to see why! This attraction can be found 12 kilometres southwest of the city of Battambang and is steeped in history and legend. Phnom Sampeou is a name that every Cambodian will be familiar with, largely due to the legend of Rumsay Sok that is associated with the hillside.A visit to Phnom Sampeou essentially starts with a climb of 700 steps to the top. There is also a cemented road which you can use to walk up or take a motoride to the summit. Situated on the hilltop is a beautiful pagoda that gives breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. As well as the pagoda, which was actually used as a prison and torture centre during the time of the Khmer Rouge, there are a series of shrines and statues to be found along the way. It is most likely that you will be visiting Phnom Sampeou to explore the natural caves and grottos that have taken part in one of the most horrific genocides in human history.
Sek Sork
Sek Sork is the natural resort, which has been popular since before the civil war time. Sek Sork stretches along the river bank full of plant, trees and bamboo-green nature in 500-meter length. Regarding to Sek Sork, tourists can also visit other attractive sites like Pich Chenda Dangtung water bubble amd Laang Spean Andet site.Sek Sak located in Treng commune, Rotanak Mondul District in 50-kilometer distance southwest of the provincial town of Battambang along the National Road No 57, the former National Road No 10.
Sek Sork, Battambang is one of the beautiful places that a nature loving traveler will like to explore. This is a natural resort which has remained a popular tourist spot for a long time. It is popularly known as the Sek Sak Resort and the area lies on the banks of a river. The area is filled with lots of trees and green vegetation making it a scenic paradise. Sek Sork, Battambang is a well known place which became famous especially during the time of Civil War.
During the Trip to Battambang, you will find Sek Sork is located at Treng commune which lies in Rotanak Mondul District. This place is located at a distance of 50 kilometer away from the provincial town of Battambang and you are to take the National Road No 57 in order to reach the Sek Sak Resort. This road was previously known as the National Road No 10. The journey through this road is going to be beautiful and for this reason, it is expected that the whole trip is going to be enjoyable and filled with lots of fun and excitement.
In the region of Sek Sork in Battambang, you will find large number of vegetation which consists of herbs, shrubs, trees of different species and bamboo trees. The bamboo trees that are available in the area are of 500 meters of height grabbing the tourists' attention. The place is one of the popular excursion destinations where adventure loving enthusiasts love to come and enjoy their expedition.
Sek Sork is one of the significant Battambang Attractions, where you will like to visit some other sites that are located in the adjacent areas. There are other interesting places like Po Pus Pich Chen Da Dong Tong and Sa Ang speak. These are the places which are of tremendous historic importance and are thus included in the heritage trips. These places are some of the important sites where civilization came into existence in the pre-historic periods. All these places are situated in about five to six kilometers away from one another.
Wat Ek Phnom
Situated about 10 km north of the Cobra Bridge are the ruins of Ek Phnom. It was built during the Bayon period and unfortunately is much worse for the wear than Phnom Banan.It?s an interesting place, however, because there is a freshly constructed working temple right in front of the ruins. This temple, along with the temple ruins, is the center of holiday festivities for the people of the nearby village. They dress up in their Sunday best and have a celebration between the old and the new temples and climb all around the ruins with their families.
The ruins are on a very small hill so there is no workout involved in viewing them much of the temple is in shambles and was heavily looted. There are still some sitting Buddha images intact higher up on the walls. On the inside is a carving of a tug-of-war with participants tugging away on a serpent. The participants on the left have lost their heads to looters (they lost face), with the guys on the right still having their heads intact.
Ek Phnom is also easy to get to-just head north on the River Road (Road 1) a bit over 10 km (the road north of the Cobra Bridge snakes around a bit, but goes back to the river). As you are getting close to the temple, you will pass over a small concrete bridge. The road beyond will veer off to the right, but the modern temple is there to the left. Enter the new temple grounds and the ruins are located to the rear. Again, a round-trip moto-taxi is about 120 baht from Battambang. Wat Ek Phnom is 11km from Battambang?s ferry landing by the shortest route and 21km if you go via the Pepsi plant and Pheam Ek. Combining both makes for a nice 32km circuit. Wat Ek Phnom an atmospheric, partly collapsed, 11th-century temple situated 11km north of Battambang, measures 52m by 49m and is surrounded by the remains of a laterite wall and an ancient baray (reservoir). A lintel showing the Churning of the Ocean of Milk can be seen above the east entrance to the central temple, whose upper flanks hold some fine bas-reliefs. Construction of the giant Buddha statue next door has been stopped by the government because, they say, it mars the site's timeless beauty. This is a very popular picnic and pilgrimage destination for Khmers at festival times. 13km north of Battambang is Wat Ek Phnom, an impressive but extremely dilapidated temple situated next to a large pond and is behind a contemporary 28m high Buddha statue. Built during the 11th century, supposedly in 1029 under the reign of King Sorayak Varman II (1002-1050), today it has been mostly reduced to ruins and visitors have to climb over fallen masonry and huge blocks of stone in order to traverse the grounds. Because of this, and its tranquil setting, Wat Ek Phnom is a must for anyone visiting the Battambang area as it actually gives you the impression that you are discovering a forgotten temple.
Wat Gahndahl
Located on the east bank of the Sanker River, the temple is a simple and run down place. There is an unusual wall mural on the outside of the temple that features a progressing story of a bad dude that apparently killed his own mother and finally had to board a boat bound for hell. Strange, indeed.
The interesting feature of this wat is the Angkor replica about 110 meters sown a dirt path from the rear area of the temple. It was built in 1969 over a small concrete pool and is the pride of the monks staying there. They say spirits and relics of deceased monks are housed inside. Battambang is not short on temples and you will see many more around town and on the way to the sights outside of town.
Wat Gahndahl, Battambang is popular tourist attraction in the city. Battambang is one of the largest and the most populated city in Cambodia. The city boasts of many interesting places of sightseeing which has made the city one of the largest tourist destinations in Cambodia. Wat Gahndahl, Battambang is among many other popular attractions that the visitors should not miss.
Wat Gahndahl is a religious center and a temple considered to be one of the major tourist attractions in Battambang. The city of Battambang is known for a number of ancient temples and religious places. The travelers must pay a visit to all these places. The temples and other interesting places can be explored by various day trips and excursion tours to the surrounding places.
The ancient temple is situated at the Eastern shores of the river and an interesting place to be visited by the religious as well as regular travelers. The temple features an interesting structure especially the exterior parts. The structure of the temple was constructed in 1969 on a small concrete pool. The outside walls of the temple show a strange local story. According to the legends, there used to be a bad boy who killed his mother and as a consequence of that had to go to hell by boarding a boat. This story is engraved on the walls of the temple.
Wat Pee Pahd
Wat Pee- Pahd,Battambang is one of the cultural heritage spots of the city. The Wat Pee- Pahd,Battambang brings to the foreground the rich cultural heritage which is associated with the city. The Wat Pee- Pahd,Battambang is one of the best among the many Battambang Tourist Attractions and visited by thousand of tourists round the year. The Wat Pee- Pahd,Battambang is actually a Buddhist Temple which is situated between River Road 1 and River Road 2 in the city of Battambang.
The tourists who embark on Battambang Tours should keep the Wat Pee- Pahd,Battambang in their itinerary. The country of Cambodia has a strong connection with the religion of Buddhism and many of the Cambodian cities have a collection of Buddhist temples. As the tourists enter the temple they will find that the interior section is wonderfully decorate and consists of some intricately carved statues of the Buddha.
Wat Tahm-rai-saw (White Elephant Pagoda)
Wat Tahm-rai-saw (White Elephant Pagoda), Battambang is one of the frequently accessed tourist spots that is situated in the city center area. This famous temple is located in one of the busy districts of the city which can be convenient to access making this temple one of the prime Battambang attractions. Wat Tahm-rai-saw (White Elephant Pagoda), Battambang is a temple which is known for its elaborate architectural structure.
If you are to visit this popular tourism destination, you are to take one of the roads known to be Road 2 or Road 3. Road 2 is comparatively busier than Road 3. There are road side shops and eateries that you will be getting as you take one of the two roads. Also, being located close to the city center area, there are many hotels and lodging destinations that you will be getting in this part of the city. So, it is quite easy for the tourists staying in this region to pay a visit to this temple.
The best time to visit the White Elephant Pagoda in Battambang is during the time of Khmer New Year festival. It is during this time that the temple and the adjacent streets are particularly decorated with various colorful accessories making it more beautiful. You will like to take part in this important festival of the place as well as enjoy the gorgeous artistic sculptures and brilliant architectural designs. These elaborate designs make it one of the really worth visiting sites in Cambodia.
Wat Tahm-rai-saw in Battambang is considered to be one of the important sightseeing places since apart from being a famous architectural landmark, it is also a place known for its abundant entertainment options. Some of the specialties that are included in the amusement options are classical dancing accompanied with traditional music. Particularly at the time of Khmer New Year festival there are lots of jubilations and celebrations that are organized in the streets close to the temple premises. One compulsory thing that is marks the rituals of the festival is that people throw plenty of water mixed with colored powder at the gathered masses as a good luck wish and blessed them with fun and prosperity.
Conclusively, tourists should come to this place especially during the time of Khmer New Year festival in order to enjoy a tour to this White Elephant Pagoda in Battambang as well as take an active participation in the festival.
Where to Eat
Good Khmer Restaurants, Across the street from the Angkor Hotel and near Road 2 are a few good Khmer restaurants. The doublewide one in the middle is usually packed and has the best food. The other restaurants aren't bad either. All have very reasonable prices.
Restaurants over the Lions Bridge:
There are also a couple of good Khmer restaurants across the Lions Bridge near the statue circle on the right. The first one you come to is the Sub-I-na. It's simple place with good Khmer and Chinese food. Better yet is the Sopheak Mongkul just beyond the Sub-I-na. The owner is a very friendly Khmer lady that speaks English and likes to chat while her staff is tending to you. Good food, and the owner will custom-make dishes for you if they're not on the menu.
Wat Leap Restaurant:
On the winding river road heading north - the part that comes away from the river for a few blocks. It's close to the temple of the same name. Khmer and Chinese food with English speaking staff that are very friendly and attentive.
If you are dining alone the lady that manages the place figures that you are not happy so she has a waitress or two sit down to chat with you. The food is good. There are also karaoke rooms in the back end, but the noise does not seem to travel into the restaurant.
Teo Hotel:
They have the top restaurant in town, featuring good Western, Khmer and Chinese fare at reasonable prices. If you are craving Western food, this is the spot for you Cold Night Restaurant (Teo's) This place has the best Western food in town and also good Asian food in a nice relaxed setting it's popular with ex-pat workers living in Battambang. It's located on East River Road 2 and is next to the hotel.
Where to Stay
7 Makara Hotels, Pleasant grounds and your choice for the rock-bottom price in Battambang. For value, however, some of the other choices are better. An ugly, Spartan room with nothing but a bed goes for US$ 1.80, US$ 4 for a room with a bath outside, US$ 5 for a room with Western bath and TV, add a/c for US$ 8.
Golden Parrot Guesthouse
A simple, cleanplace with a terrace for viewing the Nat Market. Western bath. US$ 10 with a/c. with a/c.
Royal Hotel (formerly 23 Tola Hotel):
New ownership, recently nicely renovated. Friendly English speaking Khmer lady is the owner. US$ 4 fan, US$ 5 with TV, US$ 10 with a/c, h/w shower.
Monorom Guesthouse:
Right on the river. Western bath. TV, fan. Try to grab a room with a window. US$ 5 per night.
Chaiya Hotel:
Good value, but no English spoken. Western bath, clean, terrace, TV. Fan US$ 5, add a/c for US$ 10.
Paris Hotel:
Again, good value and clean, but no English. Western bath, terrace, fridge, TV. Fan US$ 5. A/c is a good deal here at US$ 8.
Khemara Hotel:
Similar to the neighbors, the Chaiya and Paris Hotels. Clean rooms withfan US$ 5, with a/c US$ 10. With so many choices close at hand, this one is too noisy with the Khmer nightclub to justify a stay.
Oda Hotel:
This is the place on the Phnom Penh side of the Lion Bridge. It's a 50s-style place, and has friendly, English speaking staff. A clean, simple room with a large bed, TV, fridge, Western bath and a/c is a good value at US$ 8. A room with two beds is US$ 10. There are also massage girls working there.
Angkor Hotel:
Located on the west river road, the hotel has a nice setting and is well situated for the evening recreation along the river. The very friendly staff is a helpful source of information on things to see around Battambang.
The front rooms are especially nice with a wrap-around terrace on each floor for viewing the river and watching people. Also the best spot for renting a moto-taxi to self-tour. Cars, with driver, for rent as well. A/c, cable TV, h/w shower, one large or two small beds. Clean place. Good value at US$ 10 a night.
Heng Leng Hotel:
On East Road 2, heading for Highway 5 and Phnom Penh. Nice, clean place with Western bath, TV, a/c rooms for US$ 10.
Teo Hotel:
Definitely the big boy in town, it?s where the higher up government and military types stay when they come calling in Battambang. There is a friendly, English-speaking staff in this well-cared-for hotel. Rooms that feature all the amenities and come with a large and small bed are US$15. There are some larger, more tricked out rooms that go for US$ 20. A climb to the roof level will get you a room with all the amenities for US$ 10.
La Villa:
Nicely restored 1930s colonial house. Six rooms with a/c and fan, stylishly decorated with antiques and Art Deco furniture. Western and Asian food and a wide selection of cocktails served in the a/c restaurant or garden. $40-$50. Tel: 012-991801, 012-826186 E-mail: lavilla@online.com.kh
Park Hotel New hotel:
Overlooking a nice little park near the entrance to town. A/c and fan rooms with attached bathroom, cable TV, hot water and fridge. $5-$12. Tel: 053-953773, 012-817170 E-mail: park_hotelbtb@yahoo.com
Spring Park Hotel:
Brand new hotel located near the New Iron Bridge at the south end of town. A/c and fan rooms with all amenities and en suite bathroom.
Shopping
Phsar Nath, In the centre of the town is the main Phsar (traditional market) and is geared to the locals, sporting the usual variety of fruits, vegetables, meat, clothes, sundries, food stalls, etc.
Gem dealers A couple of banks, photo shops and moneychangers line the streets that ring the Phsar. Phsar Leu, just south of town, seems to be the place to buy the local specialties: oranges and pomelos from Pursat province. The oranges are said to be the best oranges in the country. Chea Heang Drink Shop on the west side of Phsar Nath offers ice cream bars, cheeses, yogurt, wines, and other imported items.
City Map
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