Battambang Province

Battambang is one of the northwest provinces of Cambodia which is 291 kilometers from Phnom Penh along National Road 5 and 6 and railway connection (approximately 274 kilometers). Battambang, covering 11,631.21 square kilometers. Its neighboring provinces are (from north clockwise) Banteay Meanchey and Siem Reap provinces to the north, Pursat Province and the Great Lake to the east, Pursat province the south, and Pailin Province and Border of Thailand to the west.

According to the temple stone inscriptions that we have and have found until today, before and during the Angkorian period, there is no information related to any villages and districts existed at that time, named Battambang. But we also do not dare to conclude that the name Battambang was used or not used in the era. However, in the Angkorian and post-Angkorian periods, according to documents Mohachun Khmer, Srok Battambang (Battambang district) was used. Why is it called Battambang? The history recorded on the inscription is not mentioned; it is only in the mythology known as Ta Dambang Kra Nhong, which we Khmers consider as a story from the Angkorian period, which explains why we call it Battambang or O’Dambang. As for the name Preah Dambang, King Rama I decided to call the village of Sangke as Phra Tabang.

Present day, Battambang is divided into 13 administrative districts and 1 municipality, Battambang City. The province has two international checkpoints, the Daung checkpoint in Kamrieng District and Phnom Dey checkpoint (Kilometer 13) in Sam Pov Loun District, and the other three regional checkpoints, the O Onlourk gate (Saun Sum) in Kamrieng District, the O Romdual gate ​​in Phnum Proek district, and the​ Chhak Roka gate in​ Samlout district. With over 990,000 people (As of 2019), the province is Cambodia’s fifth largest area and populous.

History

Battambang Province has a rich and diverse history that spans several centuries, influenced by various cultures and political changes. Here is a detailed overview:

Pre-History or Early History Period

The region has numerous pre-Angkorian sites, indicating early settlement and civilization. As pre-Angkor and during Angkor period, the western and northwestern parts of the Great Lake (Tonle Sap Lake) were the land of Amokhapura and the land of Bhimapura. During the height of the Khmer Empire (9^th to 15^th centuries), the land or region of Amokhapura was floursied due to the fertile soil, which could grow rice and other fruits and vegetables with good yields and was a significant administrative region. The province’s strategic location made it an important hub for trade and agriculture. Ancient Khmer people came to reside in this area, as evidenced by the many ancient temples in the area. However, most of those ancient temples were collapsed and disappeared, except for Banan, Ek Phnom, Basset, Snoeung, Banteay Teay, etc., where they were built as a shrine to various gods and deities of Brahmanism, Buddhism and other bodhisattvas in Buddhism.

Post-Angkor Period

After the fall of the Angkor Empire, the territory of Battambang was serverly affected by the invasion from Siamese (Thai)​​​ since the 15^th till 18^th centuries made the region experienced periods of instability and shifting control, making the livelihood of Battambang people got down, miserably, separated, the properties and homes were tragically devastated. In the late 18th century till early 20^th centuries, Battambang was annexed by Siam (modern-day Thailand). The Siamese controlled the province from 1795 to 1907 (for more than a century), integrating it into their administrative system, ruled by Abhaiwongse family which governed for six generations until 1907. This period saw the construction of infrastructure and the establishment of a provincial capital.

Colonial Period (Frech Proteactorate, French Colonial Period, Japanese Occupation or Cambodian in 1945)

According to the Franco-Siamese Treaty of March 23, 1907, Siam returned to Cambodia the territories it had occupied for more than a century: Battambang, Siem Reap Angkor, Serei Sophorn, and Chongkal in exchange for Trat province and Dach Se (Lao territory), upper part of the Mekong River. A few months later, His Majesty King Sisowath issued Royal Proclamation No.66, dated on December 6, 1907, defining the territory of Battambang to be divided into three provinces: Battambang, Siem Reap and Serei Sophorn provinces. In 1925, the territory of Battambang province was redistributed into two districts, Battambang and Serei Sophorn districts. In 1940, Battambang province had seven districts: Battambang, Sangke, Moung Russey, Mongkul Borei, Teuk Chor, Serey Sophorn, and Bit Tbong districts. Under French colonial rule, Battambang experienced modernization and development, including the construction of colonial buildings and infrastructure improvements. The French influence is still visible in the province’s architecture.

Independence and Conflict Period

On May 1953 Poipet administrative area was established under Serey Sophorn district. On July 1957, Teuk Chor district was divided into two districts: Preah Net Preah and Phnom Srok district. Serey Sophorn district was also divided into two districts: Serey Sophorn and Banteay Chhmar district. In March 1965, the Poipet administrative area, established in 1953, was renamed Ochrov district. On July 1965, a part of Mong Russey territory was divided into Koas Kralor administrative area. On March 1966, another new district was established namely Thmar Puok, located in Thmar Puok. At the same time, Banteay Chhmar district was removed from Battambang province to Oddar Meanchey province, which was a newly-established province.

At the beginning of the Khmer Republic, two districts were established: Banan and Koas Lor district. So far, Battambang district had 9 districts: Battambang, Sangke, Mong Russey, Mongkul Borey, Serey Sophorn, Ochrov, Preah Net Preah Banan, Koas Lor and two administrative areas: Bakprea and Lvea administrative areas. During the 3 years, 8 months, and 20 days, called the killing field regime, Battambang province, as well as other provinces throughout the country, the people were evacuated, especially from urban areas to rural and mountainous areas. Battambang province, formerly known as the country’s rice barn, became an area of torture, slaughter, and starvation, and at that time, the province did not have a clear border by the organization at that time placed Battambang into the Northwest Zone, consisting of Zone 1, Zone 3, Zone 4 and Zone 5. At that time, some districts were called, such as Phnom Sampov, Battambang, Mongkul Borei, Sangke, Maung Russey, Stok41 and Srok 42, etc.

Battambang province was completely liberated from the genocidal regime on January 13, 1979. A leader team was called the People’s Revolutionary Committee (province-district-town-province-commune-sangkat). Commune / Sangkat People’s Committees were first elected in 1983. From 1989 to 1986, Battambang province had 9 districts and 1 provincial town. In 1986, three new districts were established: Banan, Bavel and Ek Phnom district. At this stage, Battambang had 12 districts and 9 provincial towns: Maung Russey, Banan, Ek Phnom, Battambang, Sangke, Rattanak Mondul, Mongkul Borei, Sirisophoan, Preah Net, Preah Thmor Puok, Phnom Srok and Bavel districts. In 1988, five districts: Mongkul Borei, Thmar Puok, Serey Sophorn, Preah Net Preah and Phnom Srok district were eliminated to form another new province is Banteay Meanchey province.

Following Cambodia’s independence from France in 1953, Battambang remained a significant agricultural center. However, the province was heavily affected by the Cambodian Civil War and the Khmer Rouge regime (1975-1979). During this period, many residents were displaced, and the region suffered from violence and destruction. After the fall of the Khmer Rouge, Battambang began the slow process of recovery. Efforts were made to rebuild infrastructure, revive agriculture, and restore cultural heritage.

Modern Day (Peace Process to Present Day)

Since then, until 1993, Battambang province had 7 districts, 1 provincial town and 53 communes and 10 Sangkats. After having a new constitution, Battambang was renamed Svay Por district. As for the 10 communes, they were changed into communes, so Battambang province had 8 districts and 47 communes.

Currently, Battambang province is located in the northwest of the country, 291 km from Phnom Penh, which has the border with:  Pursat province to the east and Tonle Sap Lake, Pailin province and Thailand to the west, Banteay Meanchey province to the north, and Pursat province to the south.  To the west is the 144.8-kilometer bordering with Thailand’s Chan Borei, Trat and Sa Kaeo provinces.

Battambang is known for its blend of ancient and colonial history, vibrant arts scene, and agricultural productivity. It remains one of Cambodia’s key provinces, contributing significantly to the country’s economy and cultural identity.

Dignitaries who were former governors of Battambang since 1908

There were 26 Governors of Battambang Province from 1908-Present, including:

            Returned to Cambodia by France (1907-1941)

1. Oknha Aphit Padei Sena Em Arun (ឧញ៉ាអភិបតីសេនា អែម អរុណ) 1908-1922
2. Lok Chea (លោក ជា) 1922-1927
3. Lok Noun (លោក នួន) 1927-1934
4. Oknha Chong Toun (ឧញ៉ា ចុង ទូន) 1934-1939
5. Lok Meas Narl (លោក មាស ណាល់) 1939-1941 (Battambang was under Siam during Japanese Occupation 1941-1946 governed by Phromyothi ព្រហ្មយោធី)

Returned to Cambodia and Independent from France

6. Marshal Lon Nol (លោកសេនាប្រមុខ លន់ នល់) 1946-1947 and 1948-1949
7. Lok Sin Chhoy (លោក ស៊ីន ឈយ) 1947-1948
8. Lok Tep Phorn (លោក ទេព ផន) 1949-1951 and 1956-1959
9. Lok Tim Ngoun (លោក ទឹម ងួន) 1959-1966, and April to October of 1968
10. Lok Yem Moniroth (លោក យ៉ែម មុនីរ័ត្ន) 1966-1967
11. Lok In Tam (លោក អ៊ិន តាំ) 1967-1968
12. General Sek Somoeut (ឧត្តមសេនីយ៍ សេក សំអៀត) 1968-1974 and Janaury to April 1975
13. Major General Sar Hor (ឧត្តមសេនីយ៍ទោ សារ ហោ) November 1974- Janaury 1975

Khmer Rouge (1975-1979)

14. Lok Ros Nhim aka Ta Kav (លោក រស់ ញឹម ហៅ តាកៅ) 1975-1978
15. Lok Chhit Choeun aka Ta Mok or Ta 15 (លោក ឈិត​ជឿ ហៅ តាម៉ុក ឬតា១៥) 1978-1979

Kampuchea (People’s Republic)

16. Lok Keo Thy (លោក កែវ ធី) 1979-1980
17. Lok Lay Samon (លោក ឡាយ សាម៉ុន) 1980-1982
18. Lok Sum Sat (លោក ស៊ុំ សាត) 1982-1984
19. Lok Ke Kim Yan (លោក កែ គឹមយ៉ាន) 1984-1986
20. Lok Sok Saran (លោក សុក សារ៉ាន់) 1987-1991

Kingdom of Cambodia

21. Lok Ong Sami (លោក អ៊ុង សាមី) 1991-1999
22. Lok Nov Sam (លោក នៅ សំ) 1999-2001
23. Lok Brach Chan (លោក ប្រាជ្ញ ចន្ទ) served as Provincial Governor from 2001-2014
24. Lok Chan Sophal (លោក ច័ន្ទ សុផល) served as Provincial Governor from 2014-2017
25. Lok Ngoun Ratanak (លោក ងួន រតនៈ) served as Provincial Governor from 2017-2021
26. Lok Sok Lou (លោក សុខ លូ) served as Provincial Governor from 2021-Present

Geography

Battambang Province is situated between latitudes 13.06° North and longitudes 103.12° East. The geography of Battambang Province is characterized by fertile plains, significant rivers, and strategic location, plays a crucial role in its economic and cultural life.  

Topography: Much of Battambang consists of flat plains, making it ideal for agriculture, particularly rice cultivation. On the other hand, the province has several low mountains and hills, such as Phnom Sampeau and Phnom Banan, which are notable for their historical and cultural significance.

Water Bodies: The Sangker River is a major river that flows through the province, providing water for irrigation and contributing to the region’s fertility. The river flows southward into Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. The proximity to Tonle Sap Lake means that fishing (freshwater fishery and freshwater aquaculture​​ i.e. Crocrodile Farms) is also an important economic activity.

Climate: Battambang experiences a tropical monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Wet Season typically lasts from May to October, with heavy rainfall due to the southwest monsoon. Dry Season lasts from November to April, with cooler temperatures from November to February and hotter temperatures from March to April. The province has a temperature range from 20.48 °C to 36.0 °C.

Vegetation and Land Use:​ Battambang is one of Cambodia’s most agriculturally productive provinces. The fertile plains are extensively used for rice paddies, which are often referred to as the “Rice Bowl” of Cambodia. Besides rice, the province produces a variety of Industrial Crops (soybean, groundnut or peanut, mung bean, sesame, sugarcane); orchard (such as longan “មៀនប៉ៃលិន និងមៀនក្រអូប”, oranges, mangoes, durains, and cashews); Horticulture ​(sweet corn, cassava, various vegetables). Forested areas, though less extensive than in the past, still exist, providing timber and non-timber forest products. There are also areas of scrubland and grassland, particularly in the less developed northern parts of the province. Battambang has areas that are significant for conservation, where are home to diverse flora and fauna. There are several protected areas (wholly or partially) such as:

• the Phnom Samkos Wildlife Sanctuary covered land area of 79,293 hectars sharing between Samlout District, Koas Kralar District, and Rukhak Kiri District.
• Samlout Multiple Use Area covered land area of 21,790 hectars in Samlout District.
• Prek Toal Ramsar covered land area of 21,342 hectars in Ek Phnom District.
• Phnom Pram Pi Natural Heritage covered land area of 353.9 hectars in Phnom Proek District.
• Kiri Yang Natural Heritage covered land area of 984.31 hectars in Rotanak Mondol District.
• Phnom Tak Traing Natural Heritage covered land area of 79.82 hectars in Rotanak Mondol District.

Administrative divisions

As of 2024, the province is divided into 1 municipality (Krong) and 13 districts (Srok), 10 Sangkat and 93 communes (Khum), and 842 villages. Based on 2019 census, the total population is 997,169 people (female 506,745), the number of households is 218,584, potential labor force from 15-35 years old is 58.7 percent and the density is 118 people/km². The population of the province is predominantly rural, with many small villages and towns spread throughout. The population relies heavily on agriculture, fishing, and forestry for their livelihoods. Battambang municipality is the seat of government, commonly known Krong Battambang or Battambang City.

1. Battambang Municipality (10 Sangkat)
2. Banan District (08 Khum)
3. Thmar Koul District (10 Khum)
4. Bavel District (09 Khum)
5. Ek Phnum District (07 Khum)
6. Moung Ruessei District (09 Khum)
7. Ratanak Mondol District (05 Khum)
8. Sangkae District (10 Khum)
9. Samlout District (07 Khum)
10. Sampov Loun District (06 Khum)
11. Phnum Proek District (05 Khum)
12. Kamrieng District (06 Khum)
13. Koas Kralar District (06 Khum)
14. Rukh Kiri District (05 Khum)

The provincial symbol is decaled by Ministry of Interior via a Prakas No.2039 BrK dated 7 May 2018 on the Establishment of Battambang Province Symbol. The symbol has shape, size and image as follow:

• The oval-shaped with the width equal to two-third of the length
• The emerald-colored stick represents goodness, virtue, and the power to preserve, protect, and build the territory of Battambang province forever.
• The pedestal is adorned with golden lotus petal shape repreents the richness of the arts, culture and traditions of Battambang province.
• The nearly rounded golden rice husks represents the agricultural products of Battambang province, especially the rice crop which is famous as the Rice Barn province and the unity of the people of Battambang province.
• The Golden Machinery represents Economic Development in the Industry and Electric Power
• The wraped blue-red rice husk ribbon represents the Khmer national identity where Battambang province as part of the Kingdom of Cambodia.
• The blue interior represents the beauty of the land, natural, and the good environment of Battambang province.
• The white stripe under the pedestal represents the god of earth, the territorial administration of Battambang province

Accessibility

• Road: Battambang is well-connected by road to other major cities in Cambodia, including the capital, Phnom Penh, and Siem Reap. The National Road No. 5 is a major highway passing through the province. Moreover, traveler can access to the province via National Road 6 from Siem Reap and Banteay Meanchey provinces as well.
• Railways: The province is also served by the Royal Railway Cambodia (Northern Line: Phnom Penh – Pursat and Battambang), which has been served daily passenger service since 2018.
• Waterway: Battambang can access by river cruise from Phnom Penh via Tonle Sap River and Tonle Sap Lake. However, it is not so popular among the travelers both local and international and there is no service operation.
• Airway: Battambang has a small airport (domestic airport) called Veal Bek Chan Provincial Airport, but no service operation.

Tourism Products

Battambang, located in northwestern Cambodia, is renowned for its well-preserved French colonial architecture, rich cultural heritage, and scenic landscapes that attract tourists and researchers. Here are some key attractions and activities for tourists visiting Battambang province:

Phnom Sampov Resort (រមណីយដ្ឋានភ្នំសំពៅ): A historical and natural site located in Samnah village, Phnom Sampov commune of Banan District, Phnom Sampov is a 100 meters high hill offering panoramic views, caves, and temples. Wat Kiriromis is a pagoda that both national and international tourists can visit and walk around, and it isbreathtaking as well. The notorious Killing Caves, a somber reminder of the Khmer Rouge era, are located here as well. Every evening, millions of bats fly out from the caves at Phnom Sampeau (also called Battambang Bat Caves), creating a spectacular natural phenomenon.

Ek Phnom Temple (ប្រាសាទឯកភ្នំ): An 11th-century temple constructed during the reign of King Suryavarman I and dedicated to Hinduism. Located in Ta kom village, Peam Ek commune, Ek Phnom district, the entire temple was made of laterite stone and sandstone, and displays lively carvings, such as the “Churning of the Ocean of Milk.” On the northern edge, there are two moats, which are now used as ponds for the monks. There are many huge banyan trees around the temple, providing shade and a cool breeze. The temple is situated in Ek Phnom Pagoda where tourists can visit, join religious events, see the temple and learn about the history.

Phnom Banan or Banan Mountain (ភ្នំបាណន់) is located Banan village, Kantueu Pir commune, Banan district, about 25 km from downtown and is approximately 400 meters high. There is an Angkorian era temple situated on the top of mountain, which was made of laterite stone and sandstone and often compared to a miniature Angkor Wat. There are five towers which represent the four directions, while the main tower represents Meru Mountain and stands 75 meters in height. To reach the mountain, there is a stairway of 385 steps. Some carvings of an Apsara on the sandstone gallery are now damaged by humans and age, however, the remaining carvings and statues are beautiful and lively. One unforgettable aspect of the temple is the moat for everyday uses, particularly for washing before entering and worshipping inside the temple and other religious purposes. Visitors will also see a good natural view and landscape, the greenery of local fruit farms and stunning villages, a moat, and two natural wells at the foot of the mountain which can attract large crowds of tourists.

Battambang Provincial Museum (សារមន្ទីរខេត្តបាត់ដំបង): A small but informative museum showcasing artifacts from the Angkorian period, social and community history and provincial achievements, located in Kampong Krabri village, Sangkat Svay Pao, Battambang City.  

Damrey Sor Pagoda (វត្តដំរីស): it is located in 20 Osakphea village, Sangkat Svay Pao, Battambang City. It was built in early 20th century as a worship place in Battambang City. It has a large space for religious celebrations and festivals and a huge white elephant statue next to the entrance.

Kampheng Pagoda (វត្តកំផែង) : it is located in Kammeakkar village, Sangkat Svay Pao, Battambang city and is a place for worshiping with a large space, including a large praying and eating hall, a library, a museum, a garden, and a beautiful landscape. This pagoda also has a beautiful artistic design.

Piphetthearam Pagoda (វត្តពិភិទ្ធារាម) is one of the five ancient pagodas, and the first building of Battambang City. It is now 101 years old, located in Preaj Moha Tep village, Sangkat Svay Pao, Battambang city. The temple of the pagoda was built on a single terrace, and the other four funeral monuments have the same design, painted a golden color. There are another pair of funeral monuments which are built along the pagoda fence.

Chheu Khmaw Pagoda (វត្តឈើខ្មៅ) is a worship site which was built in 1887 from black wood, located in Prey Chas village, Prey Chas commune, Ek Phnom district. Local people believe that this pagoda was built on a sacred hill and when there was a flood, this pagoda didn’t sink. In addition, tourists can enjoy the beautiful landscape of the palm trees behind the temple of the pagoda.

Wat Kandal or Wat Vibol Thaream (វត្តកណ្តាល ឬវត្តវិបុលត្ថារាម) sits along Steung Sangker, about 500 meters from Battambang provincial hall, located in Rumchek 4 village, Sangkat Rotanak, Battambang city. It is a worship place which was built in 1813 and was used as detention and execution center of innocent people during Khmer Rouge regime. The main building of pagoda is unmistakable due to its golden rooftop with Naga decorations, impressive carving gallery, and the fact that it is a huge unique building. The pagoda also features a number of French colonial buildings, clean and well-organized garden, stunning carvings, and a hidden temple with five towers at the back of main pagoda.

Sangke Pagoda (វត្តសង្កែ) is an old monument which took many years to build, located in Rumchek Boun village, Sangkat Rotanak, Battambang City. It is also a sacred shrine for Buddhists. Not only local people but also Cambodians who live abroad come to visit and pray once they are arrive home to their country, if they believe in sins and Karma.

Spean Thmor Chas (ស្ពានថ្មចាស់) was built during the French colonial era in 1916. The bridge is now 108 years old and due to its age; it became a tourist attraction site. It features ancient architecture and a beautiful artistic design.

The Former Battambang Provincial Hall (អតីតអគារសាលាខេត្តបាត់ដំបង) was built in the time of Lord Korthatorn Chhum when Battambang was under Thai control, from 1795 to 1907. The building is very French in terms of color, shape and design. It is now a provincial heritage museum for national and international visitors, feauturing a variety of exhibitions that focus on the period of the Lord’s administration until 1907 and during the French colonial period.

Kamping Puoy Reservoir (អាងទឹកកំពីងពួយ) is a historical tourism site, located in Ta Ngean village, Ta Kream commune, Banan District. It was built by forced labor during the Khmer Rouge regime and it was made for irrigation. Since then, it has become a well-known historical dam that can attract tourists to visit, bathe, ride boats, take photos, and has amazing sightseeing. Especially during the water festival holidays, the local people celebrate boat racing every year and welcome both domestic tourists and international tourists to visit.

Lok Ta Dambong Kra Nhoung Statue (លោកតាដំបងក្រញ៉ូង) is a symbolic statue representing Battambang province and it is also a sacred place in the province. Moreover, when there is a national and traditional ceremony event, many people always come to this place to worship and wish for happiness and fortune.

Mrs. Bun Roeung’s Ancient House (ផ្ទះបុរាណលោកស្រី ប៊ុន រឿង), private property, was built in 1920 during the reign of King Sisowath. It is 100 years old, located in Wat Kor village, Sankgat Wat Kor, Battambang City. To visit the ancient house is an unforgettable experience for visitors, particularly international tourist as the building and interior design are completely difference from other countries. Visitors are able to spend the night at the house as it features a homestay service. At the same time, they will see traditional agriculture tools, weaving handicrafts, and houses built in the ancient Khmer style. In addition, visitors can also learn about the history of the ancient house.

Bamboo Train or Norry (ឡូរី): A unique and thrilling experience, the Bamboo Train is a makeshift railway transportation system that offers a thrilling ride through the countryside and a glimpse into the rural landscape of Battambang.

Colonial Architecture: Battambang’s city center features charming colonial buildings, which provide a glimpse into the region’s French colonial past.

Art and Culture: The city has a thriving arts scene with several galleries and studios, cultural centers, and festivals celebrating Khmer art, music, and dance. The Phare Ponleu Selpak, an NGO, offers performances showcasing traditional Cambodian music, dance, and circus acts.

Street Food and Markets: Battambang’s street food scene is vibrant, offering skewers, grilled meats, fried snacks, and fresh fruit. Central Market (Psar Nat) is a bustling market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and an array of ready-to-eat local dishes. Other local markets are perfect for experiencing local life, tasting Cambodian cuisine, and buying souvenirs. Night Markets come alive in the evenings with vendors selling everything from savory snacks to sweet desserts.

Agrotourism: there are 4 agrotourism attractions such as Grape Farm, Sangke River Agrotourism Farm, Samlout District Agrotourism Farm, and O Khjay Organge Farm.

The tourism business in Battambang province is diverse, encompassing a range of services and enterprises that cater to both domestic and international visitors. Here are some key aspects of the tourism business establishments in the province:

Accommodation: 48 Hotels including Boutique hotels and resorts (equally 1,775 rooms sharing 806 rooms of single-bed room and 969 rooms of double-bed room) with meeting hall around 22 venues offer more comfort and amenities, often with a focus on local culture and eco-friendly practices and 99 Guesthosues including hostels (equally 1,538 rooms sharing 1,025 rooms of single-bed and 503 rooms of double-bed) offer Budget-friendly options for backpackers and budget travelers. 3 homestays (equally 10 beds) in rural locations are part of the Community-based tourism project, providing an immersive experience with local families in rural areas.

Tour Operators and Travel Agencies: there are 2 branches which offer package tours, transportation arrangements, and customized itineraries. They can assist with bookings, providing information on local attractions, and ensuring a smooth travel experience.

Restaurant and Eatery Services: There are 216 restaurants and eateries (3,767 tables and 15,069 chairs), where local restaurants and eateries serve traditional Khmer cuisine, including dishes like Amok, Lok Lak, etc.; International restaurants offer a variety of cuisines including Western and Asian cuisine. Moreover, Cafés and Coffee Shops are popular spots for relaxing and enjoying local coffee and snacks.

Transportation Services: Local transportation options, including taxis, auto-rickshaw and manul-rickshaw, and motorbike rentals or Moto-taxis, are available for tourists to navigate within the province and are convenient for short distances and local tours. Bicycle and Motorbike rentals are popular among tourists wanting to explore the countryside independently. Car Rentals and Private Drivers are available for day trips and excursions to nearby attractions. Moreover, Regular bus services connect Battambang with Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, other major cities in Cambodia.

Entertainment Services: Battambang have a growing nightlife scene with bars, clubs (2 clubs with 300 chairs), Beer Gardens (1 place with 100 chairs), 27 KTV venues (equally to 179 rooms) and entertainment venues catering to tourists.

Handicrafts and Souvenirs: Local Markets sell a variety of local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. These items often reflect the cultural heritage of the region and make for popular tourist purchases. Some specialized Artisan shops and cooperatives offer handmade goods, providing tourists with unique and authentic mementos of their visit.

Wellness and Spa Services: A range of wellness services is available, including traditional Khmer massages, spa treatments, and yoga classes, catering to tourists seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

Other Activities:

• Several initiatives focus on community-based tourism, promoting sustainable practices and ensuring that local communities benefit from tourism. These services often include guided tours by local residents, educational workshops, and opportunities to engage in community projects.
• Guide Tours such as Cultural and Historical Tours (including visits to temples, museums, and historical sites such as Wat Ek Phnom and Phnom Sampeau); Countryside Tours (Exploring rural villages, rice paddies, and local farms); Art and Cultural Workshops (Tours focused on Battambang’s vibrant arts scene, including visits to galleries and artist studios).
• Culinary Experiences: Several establishments in Battambang offer cooking classes, allowing visitors to learn how to prepare traditional Khmer dishes. Moreover, Guided food tours are available, providing an opportunity to explore the city’s culinary landscape and sample a variety of local specialties.
• Phare Ponleu Selpak Circus: A unique cultural experience showcasing local talent in acrobatics, music, and theater.
• Traditional Dance and Music Performances: Held at various venues around the city.
• Art Galleries and Exhibitions: Featuring works by local artists.