Battambang Province
Battambang Province is one of Cambodia’s 25 provinces,
located in the northwestern part of the country. Known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, Battambang offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern development
History
Battambang has a rich historical background, dating back to the 11th century. It was an important part of the Khmer Empire and later came under Thai control before being returned to Cambodia in the early 20th century. The province’s capital, also named Battambang, is known for its well-preserved French colonial architecture, reflecting its historical significance during the French colonial period.
Geography
Battambang is bordered by Banteay Meanchey to the north, Pursat to the east, and Pailin to the west. To the south, it meets the Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. The province covers an area of approximately 11,702 square kilometers, making it one of the larger provinces in Cambodia. Battambang experiences a tropical monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season typically runs from May to October, bringing heavy rains and lush greenery, while the dry season from November to April offers a more temperate climate ideal for exploration.
Religion
Battambang, a province in northwestern Cambodia, is rich in religious diversity and cultural heritage.
Predominantly, the people of Battambang practice Theravada Buddhism, which plays a central role in their daily lives and community activities. The province is home to numerous ancient temples and pagodas, where monks reside and locals gather for worship and religious ceremonies. These sacred sites, such as Wat Banan and Wat Ek Phnom, not only serve as places of spiritual significance but also as centers for education and social gatherings. Additionally, Battambang has small communities of other religious groups, including Muslims, Christians, and animists, who contribute to the province’s rich tapestry of cultural and religious traditions. This blend of beliefs and practices highlights the region’s historical openness and tolerance, making Battambang a unique and harmonious place of spiritual coexistence
Climate
Battambang experiences a tropical wet and dry climate,
with distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season typically lasts from May to October, bringing heavy rainfall and high humidity, while the dry season spans from November to April, characterized by sunny days and cooler temperatures. The city’s proximity to the Mekong River helps moderate its climate, although temperatures can soar during the hottest months.
Economy
The economy of Battambang is primarily agricultural. The fertile land and favorable climate make it a major rice-producing region in Cambodia. Besides rice, other significant crops include maize, beans, oranges, and sesame. The province is also known for its fisheries and livestock farming. In recent years, tourism has become an increasingly important sector, with visitors attracted to its cultural sites, natural beauty, and the unique bamboo train experience.
Battambang Travel Guide
Discover the essence of Phnom Penh with these must-do activities that capture the city’s vibrant culture and rich history:
Battambang is a burgeoning tourist destination, offering a mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions:
Phnom Sampeau: A mountain with stunning views, historical sites, and the Killing Caves, which are a poignant reminder of Cambodia’s turbulent past.
Wat Banan: An ancient temple located on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Bamboo Train (Norry): A unique and adventurous way to explore the countryside, providing a glimpse into local life.
Battambang Bat Caves: Known for the spectacle of thousands of bats emerging at dusk.
Art and Culture: Battambang is also a hub for contemporary art in Cambodia, with numerous galleries and studios, such as Phare Ponleu Selpak, an organization offering art education and performances.
Culture and People
The people of Battambang are known for their hospitality and traditional lifestyle. The province is home to a diverse population, including ethnic Khmers, Chams, and a smaller number of ethnic Vietnamese and Chinese. Traditional Cambodian customs and practices are deeply rooted in daily life, from festivals and ceremonies to everyday activities.
Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital of Cambodia, is a city that seamlessly blends rich history with modernity. Whether you’re a backpacker seeking budget-friendly hostels or a luxury traveler in search of top-notch amenities, Phnom Penh has something to offer for every type of traveler. Let’s dive into the accommodation options available in this captivating city.
- FIVE STAR
- Palace Gate Hotel & Resort
- Fairfield by Marriott Phnom Penh
- Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh
- FOUR STAR
- Palace Gate Residence
- Sun & Moon Riverside
- Capri Phnom Penh Hotel
- STANDARD
- King Grand Boutique Hotel
- Ohana Hotel
- Anik Palace Hotel
- HOSTEL
- Onederz Phnom Penh
- Pooltop Phnom Penh
- Nangkol Village
These are just a few options, and Phnom Penh has many more dining choices to explore, catering to various tastes and budgets.
- FINE DINING
- Malis
- Topaz Restaurant
- Do Forni
- MID-RANGE
- Friends the Restaurant
- The Common Tiger
- La Provence
- CHEAP EAT
- Street food in Phnom Penh
- Central Market
- Russian Market
For booking bus and flight tickets in Cambodia, you have several reputable options. Here are some recommendations:
- BUS TICKETS
Giant Ibis: Giant Ibis is one of the most popular bus operators in Cambodia, known for its comfortable and reliable services. They offer routes between major cities such as Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, and Kampot.
Mekong Express: Another well-regarded bus company, Mekong Express provides services connecting various destinations in Cambodia, including Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam.
Virak Buntham Express: Virak Buntham operates a network of buses covering multiple routes within Cambodia and to neighboring countries like Thailand and Vietnam. They offer both daytime and overnight bus services.
- FLIGHT TICKETS
Cambodia Angkor Air: Cambodia Angkor Air is the national flag carrier of Cambodia, offering domestic and international flights. They operate flights to Phnom Penh from Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, and other regional destinations.
Lanmei Airlines: Lanmei Airlines is a Cambodian airline that provides both domestic and international flights. They offer routes connecting Phnom Penh with destinations such as Siem Reap, Ho Chi Minh City, and Bangkok.
JC Airlines: JC Airlines is a relatively new airline in Cambodia, offering domestic flights to Siem Reap from Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville. They focus on providing affordable air travel options.
Here are some useful contacts for tourism-related services and emergencies in Phnom Penh:
Phnom Penh Tourism Hotline:
Phnom Penh City Hall Tourism Office: +855 12 942 484
Ministry of Tourism Cambodia (Phnom Penh Branch): +855 23 722 741
Emergency Contacts:
Police: 117 (General emergency number)
Ambulance: 119
Fire Department: 118
Tourist Police: +855 97 799 9955
It’s a good idea to save these emergency contact numbers in your phone or write them down and keep them with you while traveling in Phnom Penh. Hopefully, you won’t need to use them, but it’s always better to be prepared in case of an emergency.
Gallery
Next Destination
- Siem Reap
- Phnom Penh
- Battambang
- Ta Keo
- Kep
- Kampot
- Svay Reang
- Sihanouk Ville
- Koh Kong
- Koh Rong Sanleom
- Koh Rong
- Kampong Speu
- Kampong Chhnang
- Prey Veng
- Pursat
- Pailin
- Banteay Meanchey
- Oddar Meanchey
- Preah Vihear
- Tboung Khmum
- Stung Treng
- Ratanakiri
- Mondulkiri
- Kratie
- Kampong Cham
- Kampong Thom
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Posted on Linda WVerified Small agency with a personal touch We have used Merry Travel for two trips now in Cambodia and will use them again for future travel to Southeast Asia. Staff is exceptional. The lovely Sreylin was endlessly patient with my MANY itinerary changes. We spent 8 days here in Cambodia in May and decided to return this January / February for a 45 day trip throughout the country ending with a long stay in Siem Reap. The hotels were exceptional - often held we would never have found on our own. The tours were all incredible and the transport top notch. We have used the always-smiling Vuthy often to guide us with excellent temple vista it’s. Highly recommend this small agency. The personalization is unparalleled.Posted on Sarah WVerified Great service! We used Merry Travel services to assist with booking our accommodations & tours for a 2-week vacation in Cambodia. Communication was prompt, and we were very happy with the service provided!Posted on Navigator18215729963Verified If you're planning a trip to Cambodia, look no further than Merry Travel If you're planning a trip to Cambodia, look no further than Merry Travel. This exceptional local company in Siem Reap operates with genuine pride for their beautiful country, and it shows in every aspect of their service. What sets Merry Travel apart is their commitment to creating personalized experiences. Every tour we took was specifically curated to match our interests, and each one authentically connected us to the city's rich history, vibrant culture, and wonderful people. This wasn't cookie-cutter tourism—it was meaningful travel. Sam from Merry Travel goes above and beyond in ways that truly matter. He works directly with local communities and makes a conscious effort to support Siem Reap's infrastructure and families. Throughout our travels, we felt the deep respect Sam and his team have for the Cambodian people and their culture—they ensure that tourism enriches rather than exploits the community. When you book with Merry Travel, you're not just getting an incredible experience—you're directly contributing to the local economy and helping the people who call this special place home. If you want a travel experience that's authentic, thoughtful, and genuinely supportive of the local community, Merry Travel is the only choice. Highly recommended!Posted on TDKVerified Surreal 14-day group bicycle tour of backroads Cambodia - Siem Reap to Phnom Penh Our charity group of 18 over 14 days were led by Zil and his experienced team from the Siem Reap tour company - Merry Travel - beginning at the Siem Reap temples then northeast to the mighty Mekong River, then following the Mekong southward towards Phnom Penh - our cycle paths meandered through the authentic Cambodian countryside which tourists will never see - truly surreal and the best way to learn about the Cambodian history, people, food and their culture. Merry Travel team followed us with exemplary support - highly recommend this tour company based in Siem Reap for your Cambodian travel adventure. The bicycles were fantastic also. Thanks to Merry Travel and Mr Biker Saigon cycle tour teams.Posted on Curiosity46430862428Verified Championship Bike trip in Bangkok Chiang Mai, it was an amazing trip professional and reliable company, the staff was very professional and did everything to make it a perfect trip, I would like to thank Sam the owner of the company I have no doubt we will meet again. thank youPosted on CharlotteVerified RECOMMEND Professional, flexible and good organization. Cambodia is an amazing land to see by bike!!! Thank you for the good carePosted on MB100BxllsVerified Amazing self-guided bike tour in Cambodia! Just completed an amazing self-guided bespoke ebike tour with Merry Travel/Cambodia bikes. We are both 60 plus regular cyclists who normally travel ourselves, however with little planning time and this being our first visit to the region sought local guidance. So glad we did. The planning, which was initially done through Mr Biker Saigon, as we were doing similar tours in Vietnam, was seamless and provided for a more interesting tour than had we planned it ourselves. We provided a rough 'request list' and timings and they proposed routes incorporating several additional activities including trekking, kayaking and dolphin watching. Routes were provided on Bike with GPS and also a list of accommodation. All of which were in interesting places and local commmunity orientated, which we liked. The routes, which were generally on quiet and always interesting side roads and often gravel tracks - took us through amazing countryside, small villages and finally on a beautiful journey following the Mekong into Phnom Penh. We also had a vehicle which loosely followed us and our driver Makara - himself a cyclist - supported us with everything from transfers, bike maintenance when needed and interpretation. He also found us some nice coffee and food stops!! Overall a fantastic adventure. We loved the space and adventure afforded by self-guiding, but with the excellent backup support provided by Sam at Merry Travel and Makara throughout the journey. Thank-you!Posted on Joanne GVerified Best bike trip ever in Vietnam and Cambodia !!! we had a wonderful trip with Cambodia cycling tour ; Southern Vietnam and then to Siem Reap . Sam did a great job planning this trip; it was a perfect balance of biking and cultural experiences and lots of fun . Our guides and crew in both countries were amazing ; knowledgeable and always helpful and went beyond our expectations to create and unforgeratble experience . Everyone was so welcoming and cant say enough about the food !! We really appreciated eating in local places . The hotels were nicer then we usually stay and the pools were amazing Thanks to Merry travel and Cambodia cycling for the trip of a lifetime !!!Posted on Vicki MVerified Amazing experience. A group of friends spent 10 days with Merry travel cycling in Vietnam and Cambodia. It was the best trip I have ever had. We cycled thru neighborhoods in the Mekong delta. Our guide expertly provided insight and info. He was a perfect cycling guide adding a rich cultural experience as well as great biking.Posted on TrevVerified 5 stars out of 5. Everything was perfect. We did a tailor made cycle tour with Merry Travel. From our communication with Sam, through to the actual tour with Zil and 'T', everything was brilliant. Sam listened to what we wanted to do, the sport of places we wanted to stay and organised everything from beginning to end. We didn't want to use tourist style chain hotels, and Sam found wonderful smaller locally run hotels. Perfect for us. Zil, our cycle guide and 'T', our driver couldn't have been better. All the places we stopped for lunch and snacks were just great. Just when we thought we couldn't cycle any further, 'T' appeared out of nowhere with fresh fruit, cold water and cold towels. Absolutely fabulous.
Merry Travel’s extensive Cambodia network of insiders and experts allows us to create the trip you’ve been dreaming about. Want to make Amok in Siem Reap with a legendary chef? Go to visit temples of Angkor without crowds? How about interaction with local family living in floating village, or have a private helicopter ride to visit Preah Vihea temple? Would you like an off-road ride with Dirt Bike or 4WD to visit the last rain-forest? We can make it happen. We can also arrange for you to travel through Cambodia by bikes and can have you sleeping in a room in a luxury tent in the middle nowhere, or homestay with the hill tribes. We have more knowledge, relationships, and expertise than anyone in the industry, and we use it create one-of-a-kind journeys and experiences that you will cherish for a lifetime.
Every travel suggestion we make is based on our personal experiences, and we continue to travel the new places to ensure that our recommendations are accurate and inspired. We don’t just know the best hotels and restaurants; we know the rooms with the best views and the best local dishes. We don’t just connect you with random chefs, experienced guides, surf instructors, and artists; we connect you with true experts we know well enough to call friends. We don’t just suggest places we’ve read about; we suggest the far-flung islands, ancient temples, and jungle camping that we’ve been to ourselves and still dream about everyday. We are discerning, we are opinionated, and we welcome the opportunity to share our knowledge with you.
We learn about your interests so we can create a customized itinerary that really inspires you. We have arranged for art lovers to meet up-and-coming visual archeologist in Angkor and learn centuries old metal-working techniques in Angkor. Spiritual seekers have made pilgrimages to see Hill Tribes deep in the Northeast bush, and have sat with monks in local pagoda in country. We can build a trip around any of your passions or desires, such as outdoor activities, cooking, yoga, archaeology, or volunteering, or M.I.C.E, or student group or just incorporate them into a larger journey.
Our founder, Samban, was one of the longest experienced tour guides in Cambodia. With more than 10 years experienced tour guide in travel industry to serve clients from very adventurous up to high-end Samban created his own company in 29th December 2009. Samban brought tourists to unexplored parts of the Cambodia and innovated the luxury travel experience by making it completely personal and extreme adventure by Kayaking, Biking, 4WD, Dirt-bike. Samban’s dedicated his life to creating unique, adventure, and luxury trips for travelers who want to experience the staggering and diverse beauty of the Cambodia, and he’s staffed this company with people who want to share the power and joy of travel as much as he does. You simply won’t find another company who knows Cambodia as well, is as excited by it, and who will inspire you to see it so thoroughly.
Merry journeys are worry-free. We have expert local staff in every city who are always working behind-the-scenes so you can just focus on having a great time. Our local staff, along with the rest of the Merry Travel team, are available not just to ensure your happiness, but to ensure your safety and comfort as well. When you travel with us, you can feel confident knowing that if you encounter any sort of issue, we will be there to assist you.
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