The enchanting Cambodian city of Battambang, pronounced ‘Battambong’, is often overlooked by travellers, who either skip it entirely or briefly visit for a whistle-stop tour.
But stay for a few days and you’ll discover the hidden charms the city has to offer.
Whether you need to recover from the debauchery of Siem Reap’s Pub Street, want to chill and drink Khmer coffee in one of the many cafés, or fancy riding the touristy yet fun Bamboo Railway, Battambang has something for everyone.
Described by good-humoured locals as ‘sticky’, Battambang is a place many people struggle to leave.
Strike up a conversation with any ‘barang’ (foreigner) around town and there’s a good chance they’ll tell you the same story: they arrived for a few days and are still here months on, teaching, volunteering or having set up a local business.
- Best Time to Visit Battambang
- Where To Stay in Battambang
- Best Accommodation in Battambang, Cambodia
1. Best Time to Visit Battambang
The best time to visit Battambang,Cambodia, is from November to January, in the dry season.
With average daytime temperatures of 33ºC, it is hot but not too humid.
AlthoughCambodia is not as impacted as other Southeast Asian countries by the burning season, slash-and-burn farming happens in the areas around Battambang during February.
If you have any respiratory issues such as asthma, it is worth avoiding this time of year.
2. Where To Stay in Battambang
Battambang has become increasingly popular in recent years, however, compared to other Cambodian destinations it remains relatively under-visited.
The increase in traveller numbers has led to a range of places to stay cropping up, with options to suit any visitor and budget.
The bustling market, coffee shops and best restaurants are all based on the river’s west bank in the city centre, and this is where several of the most popular hotels are based.
If you’re looking to experience a more local side of Battambang, opt to stay a little further out.
There are a couple of well-rated homestays close to the Bat Cave and around the outskirts of the city.
Bear in mind that while these options present a more local experience, they will mean travelling to the city centre via tuk tuk or braving a long walk in the Cambodian sun.
3. Best Accommodation in Battambang, Cambodia
Pomme Hostel
Incredibly cheap digs which offer private sleeping quarters for up to two people, Pomme Hostel is an example of everything backpacker accommodation should be.
The rooms themselves are basic yet clean and come with AC. The bar/restaurant area downstairs is a great place to hang out and Pomme even produces its own craft beer – the IPA is strong and tasty!
The hostel offers a range of tours around Battambang which we highly recommend!
O’Hamok Homestay
Located in a residential area of Battambang, O’Hamok Homestay is the place to bed down if you want to see a more local side ofCambodia’s second city.
The accommodation comes in the form of traditional Khmer housing on stilts.
The kind and friendly French/Khmer owners can help you book tours and show you the ‘real’ Battambang.
Cambana La Rivière Hotel
Those in search of a luxury stay in Battambang need look no further than Cambana La Rivière Hotel.
Offering a range of elegant suites, you’ll stay in comfort here. The outdoor swimming pool is incredibly inviting after a dusty day spent in the back of a tuk tuk and the staff are all courteous and kind.
It is located in a quiet area outside the centre, however, you can access the middle of the city either on foot or by tuk tuk.
The Place Hostel and Rooftop Bar
If you’re looking for a hostel with that ‘Instagram’ feel, The Place Hostel is it. Both the dorms and private rooms are cool and comfortable, and the latter offers plenty of space for couples.
The rooftop bar cum restaurant is a definite highlight but the WiFi is pretty lacklustre in most of the building (excluding the rooftop), making streaming your evening entertainment or clocking up hours at your desk a frustrating affair.
Family Bat Cave Homestay
If you are looking for a rural base surrounded by rice fields and jungle, the Family Bat Cave Homestay is a great option.
You’ll stay with Saro and his family who can introduce you to the real Cambodia! Stilted wooden huts provide accommodation which feels a world away from the tourist-centric hostels in the centre.
It is around a 30-minute drive from the middle of the city, however, the Bat Cave and the Killing Cave are accessible on foot.