About Battambang

Battambang, Cambodia's third-largest city with a population of 195,000, is a captivating destination that beautifully preserves the country's cultural heritage while fostering a vibrant contemporary arts scene. Founded in the 11th century, the city has witnessed centuries of history, including a period of Siamese control from 1794 to 1907 when it was annexed by Siam before being returned to Cambodia. This unique historical trajectory has left Battambang with an exceptional collection of French colonial architecture, considered the best-preserved in Cambodia, alongside ancient Khmer temples and ruins dating back to the 10th century. The city's riverside setting along the Sangkae River creates a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the bustling energy of Phnom Penh, attracting travelers seeking authentic Cambodian experiences away from the tourist crowds of Siem Reap.

What sets Battambang apart is its thriving arts and music scene, which has earned it recognition as Cambodia's creative capital. The city is home to numerous art galleries, circus schools, traditional music performances, and cultural centers where young Cambodians preserve and reimagine their heritage. The famous bamboo train or "norry" offers a unique and exhilarating ride through the countryside on makeshift platforms powered by small motors along old railway tracks. The stunning Art Deco Psar Nath Market, built in 1936, remains the commercial heart where locals shop for fresh produce and daily necessities. Battambang is also celebrated for its exceptional food scene, with local specialties including the infamous borbor (rice porridge) and fresh riverside seafood. Ancient sites like Wat Po Veal temple and the hilltop ruins of Phnom Sampeau with its bat caves create fascinating day trips, while the surrounding countryside offers glimpses of traditional village life and rice farming that define rural Cambodia.