[2025 Banan Attraction] Travel Guide for Bat cave of Phnom Sampov (Updated Jun)

We made a quick visit to the famous Bat Cave in Battambang but didn’t go all the way up the mountain. Since we only had one day to explore before heading back to Phnom Penh at 4 PM, we just took some photos around this amazing Buddha carvings. If you really want to see the bats in action, the best time is around 5:00 PM when they start flying out of the cave. Even Google Maps shows that the Bat Cave officially opens around 4:00 PM. Sadly, we couldn't stay that long, but we still had a great time soaking in the view and snapping some nice shots. Perfect spot for a quick stop and a peaceful vibe! ✨📸 #asianwoman #asianwomantravels #travelasia #shortescape #weekendgetaways #weekendvibes #shortescape #battambang #battambangbatcaves #batcaves #battambangadventure #cambodia #cambodiatravel #cambodiatrip #cambodia🇰🇭 #lifeisgood #enjoythemoment#traveladdict #travelphotography

#cheaptravel #cambodia Here’s a breakdown of the places I visited in Cambodia, covering top sights and personal recommendations across five amazing destinations: 📍 Siem Reap * Angkor Wat – A must-visit; one of the largest temple complexes in the world. * Bayon Temple – Famous for its serene stone faces. * Ta Prohm – Tomb Raider temple wrapped in massive tree roots. * Pub Street – The nightlife hub, full of bars, restaurants, and street food. * Night Market – Great for souvenirs, local crafts, and cheap eats. * Tonle Sap Floating Village – (Planned for my next visit) Best to see at sunset. 📍 Battambang * Bamboo Train – A fun and unique ride along the real train tracks ($5). * Killing Caves – Historical site from the Khmer Rouge era; sobering but important. * Bat Cave at Sunset – Watch millions of bats fly out of a cave after sunset (starts ~5:50 PM). * Phnom Sampeau Hill – Great views, monkeys, and temples at the top. 📍 Phnom Penh (Capital) * Royal Palace – Traditional Khmer architecture. Entry: $10. (I only saw it from outside.) * National Museum of Cambodia – Traditional artifacts and religious items. Entry: $10. * Independence Monument – Built in 1958 to celebrate freedom from France. * Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum – Former prison now museum; entry: $5 (+$5 for audio guide). * Choeung Ek Killing Fields – Memorial site with skull stupa; entry: $3 (+$3 for audio guide). 📍 Koh Rong Island * Long Beach – Amazing for sunsets 🌅 * Lonely Beach – Farther out, very peaceful and beautiful. * Fishing Village – Local charm and quiet life. * Nest Beach Party – Held every Saturday night. Free beer + T-shirt between 3–4 PM at Nest (entry $10–12.5 depending on where you buy). * 🛥️ Getting there: * Speedboat: $25 round trip (flexible return time). * Public Ferry: $5 one way (limited schedule, but much cheaper – highly recommended). 📍 Kampot * Bokor Mountain Tour – Only worth it in clear weather; otherwise fog ruins the views. * Big Buddha, abandoned casino/hotel, waterfall, old church – all barely visible in fog. * Countryside Tour – More enjoyable: * Pepper Plantation – Kampot pepper is world-famous! Great tasting and shopping experience. * Cave Temple – Older than Angkor Wat! * Salt Fields – Couldn't see much due to cloudy skies. * Riverside Sunset – Peaceful and pretty. * 🎒 Stay at Arcadia Backpackers if you’re looking for a social/party hostel. 📝 Final Notes & Tips * 🚌 Best bus company: VET Air Bus – clean, punctual, and comfortable. * ✅ Don’t miss Battambang and Kampot – Underrated but rewarding stops. * 🧾 Keep the immigration card you receive when entering the country. * 🛂 Visa on arrival is easy and straightforward. * 💵 US Dollars are widely used. (If you have euros, exchange them.) * ⛴️ Use the $5 public ferry to get to Koh Rong instead of the $25 speedboat if on a budget. * 🗓️ Tourist visa can be extended by 30 days. * For longer stays, try the business visa – sometimes no documents are required.

Travel Through Time and Discover Battambang Tired of cookie-cutter travel experiences? Then you must visit Battambang, Cambodia. This city preserves the most authentic essence of Southeast Asia. Take a ride on the unique bamboo train, traveling along the railway tracks as rice paddies and villages unfold like a picturesque poem. Feel the gentle breeze on your face as you enjoy the ultimate relaxation. Visit Ek Phnom, where ancient architecture silently narrates the vicissitudes of history. Ascend to the top for a panoramic view of the boundless green fields. At dusk, witness the spectacle of the Bat Cave, as countless bats emerge from their nests and circle in the sky, creating a breathtaking scene. Don't forget to savor the local delicacies. Fish amok is tender and delicious, while Cambodian spring rolls are refreshing and palate-cleansing. Every bite is an authentic taste of Khmer cuisine.

Journey Through Time, Discover Battambang If you're tired of the usual tourist traps and yearning for a unique Southeast Asian adventure, Battambang, Cambodia is the perfect choice. Untouched by mass tourism, this city retains its authentic Southeast Asian charm, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Your first stop in Battambang should be the unique bamboo train. A simple wooden platform powered by an engine, it may seem rudimentary, but it offers an extraordinary journey. As the bamboo train glides along the winding tracks, you'll pass by endless rice paddies swaying in the breeze, creating waves of green, and see peaceful villages where locals live a tranquil life. The rich rural atmosphere will envelop you in a sense of tranquility. The ancient Wat Ek Phnom stands as a testament to history. Time has left its mark on the stone walls, adding to its profound character. Climb to the top of the temple for panoramic views of the vast green fields and rolling hills, a scene of serene beauty. As dusk approaches, make your way to the bat cave. As darkness falls, the once-quiet cave entrance comes alive as millions of bats emerge in a black torrent, swirling and dancing in the sky. This awe-inspiring spectacle is a testament to the wonders of nature. After a day of exploring, treat yourself to the delicious aromas of Amok fish and Cambodian spring rolls from the street food stalls. These local delicacies will tantalize your taste buds and introduce you to the authentic flavors of Khmer cuisine.

📍Battambang is the second largest city in Cambodia. It is located in the western part of Cambodia, bordering Thailand, 292 kilometers from Phnom Penh and 80 kilometers from Siem Reap. It was once a transportation and trade hub between Cambodia and Thailand, known as the "granary of Cambodia" and also as the "Little Paris of the East". [Metro] Transportation Guide • From Siem Reap: You can choose to go by public bus, chartered car or boat. Public buses and boats are cheap but take longer and have fewer departures; chartered cars are more popular with tourists and the journey takes about 3 hours. • From Phnom Penh: You can also choose to take a public bus, chartered car or boat. The distance is farther, but the transportation is convenient. [RedHeart] Must-see attractions 1. Bamboo Train: An iconic experience in Battambang, take a bamboo train through the fields and experience the unique travel fun. Round trip tickets cost about $5-10. • The bamboo train passes through the river with no guardrails on both sides, but no accidents have occurred so far. • When there are many tourists, the trains on the opposite side will stop to give way and the drivers will help each other. 2. Phnom Sampeau: • Killing Cave: This was the place where the Khmer Rouge executed civilians during the civil war. The cave displays sculptures of the punishments of that time and a pagoda filled with skulls, which is chilling. • Bat Cave: At dusk, thousands of bats fly out of the cave, creating a spectacular sight. Visitors can drink beer, eat barbecue and enjoy this spectacle at the foot of the mountain. 3. French-style buildings: Battambang has preserved a large number of French-style buildings, which are mainly distributed on both sides of the Stung Sangker River. Walking among them, you feel like you are in the "Little Paris of the East". 4. Local Market: This is closer to local life, with handicraft shops, coffee shops, and stalls selling baked potatoes, baked bananas, and fresh coconuts. 5. Kamping Puoy Reservoir: The water is clear and the surface is covered with lotus leaves and lotus flowers. It is suitable for a boat trip and a leisurely water time. [Tableware] Food Recommendations • Local rice noodles: Available in soup and fried form, they are affordable at around $2-3 per serving. • Grilled snails and grilled bullfrogs: You can taste these special snacks while watching bats coming out of the cave at the foot of Mount Boshen. ⚠️Travel Tips • Battambang has not been overdeveloped yet and has fewer tourists, making it suitable for those who like to travel off the beaten track. • If you have enough time, it is recommended to stay in Battambang for one night to fully experience the local slow life. • When watching bats coming out of the cave at Mount Boshen, please be mindful of protecting the environment and do not litter at will. I hope this guide can help you better plan your trip to Battambang and enjoy the unique charm of this niche city!

👍Why We Recommend It Battambang is a true hidden paradise! Free from hordes of tourists and overdevelopment, it offers authentic countryside views, and the locals are incredibly welcoming and friendly. Plus, the cost of living is unbelievably low, making it an absolute steal! 📍Attractions - Bamboo Train: A must-try experience in Battambang! This simple train made of bamboo planks offers a joyful ride through rice paddies. As the wind blows and the rice sways, you'll feel the world slow down, creating a super relaxing experience. - Bat Cave: Witness a spectacular sight at the Bat Cave in the evening! Watch as millions of bats emerge, darkening the sky in a breathtaking display. Remember to stay quiet so you don't scare them away. - Battambang Museum: This is the place to learn about Battambang's history. It houses a collection of Khmer-era artifacts, ancient Buddha statues, and exquisite pottery, each with its own story. A visit here feels like traveling back in time. - Ek Phnom: Located on a hilltop, this temple blends Buddhist and Hindu architectural styles, featuring intricate carvings worth admiring. From the temple, you can enjoy panoramic views of Battambang city, a stunning combination of history and nature. 🚅Transportation - Long-distance travel: From Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, you can take a bus, which takes three to five hours and costs around USD 10–20, offering great value. For more flexibility, you can also share a tuk-tuk, with negotiable fares, though the journey will be longer. - Local transportation: Tuk-tuks are the main mode of transport within Battambang, readily available and affordable. Remember to negotiate the fare before hopping on to avoid being overcharged. For the adventurous, renting a motorbike is a fantastic option, costing USD 5–10 per day, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. 🗺Itinerary - Day 1: Upon arrival in Battambang, head straight to the Bamboo Train. After soaking in the countryside scenery, find a local restaurant nearby to savor the local cuisine and treat your taste buds to a culinary journey. - Day 2: Visit the Battambang Museum in the morning to delve into the local history and culture. In the evening, witness the bat exodus at the Bat Cave, a truly eye-opening experience. - Day 3: Explore the ancient Ek Phnom temple and enjoy the city views. In the afternoon, wander through the traditional market in the city center, pick up some souvenirs, experience the local life, and end your trip on a perfect note. 🍰Food Recommendations - Fresh Spring Rolls: Thin rice paper wraps filled with fresh vegetables, herbs, meat or shrimp, served with fish sauce. Each bite is a burst of Southeast Asian flavors, refreshing and palate-cleansing. - Fish Amok: Cambodia's national dish, prepared authentically in Battambang. Tender fish is steamed in banana leaves with aromatic spices, creating an unforgettable aroma and taste. - Cambodian Grilled Meat: Various meats marinated in unique spices, grilled to crispy perfection. Served with lime juice and vegetables, it's a non-greasy delight for meat lovers. 💰Expenses - Transportation: Round-trip transportation costs USD 20–40, and local transportation is around USD 5–15 per day. - Accommodation: Budget-friendly guesthouses offer comfortable stays for USD 5–15 per night, while hotels range from USD 20–50 per night. - Food: Enjoy a filling meal at local restaurants for USD 3–8 per person, or dine at upscale restaurants for USD 10–20 per person. - Entrance Fees: Attraction tickets are inexpensive, with the Bamboo Train costing USD 5–10 for a round trip, and other attractions mostly between USD 1–5. A week-long trip can cost as little as USD 100–300, making it incredibly budget-friendly. ❤️Other Tips 1. The weather is hot and sunny, so pack plenty of sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to avoid getting sunburned. 2. Public restrooms are scarce, so consider using the facilities at restaurants or cafes when you stop for a meal or drink. 3. Tipping is customary but not mandatory, usually around USD 1–2. 4. Dress respectfully when visiting temples. Avoid wearing revealing clothing such as shorts, short skirts, or crop tops.

In the northwest of Cambodia, there is a city full of French flair and Khmer charm—Battambang. It is the second largest city in Cambodia and is known as the "rice bowl of Cambodia". Here, you will find not only unique natural scenery, but also a rich history and culture. It is a treasure trove of a travel destination worth exploring in depth. Climate and Best Time to Travel 🌞 Battambang has a tropical monsoon climate with only two seasons: dry season (November to April) and wet season (May to October). The dry season is sunny and dry, with an average temperature of 25–32°C, making it the best time to travel. During this time, the sunshine is plentiful, suitable for sightseeing and experiencing unique activities such as the bamboo train. Although there is more rainfall during the wet season, the city is lush and green after being washed by the rain, offering a different kind of charm. There are also fewer tourists during this time, and accommodation prices are more affordable. Must-See Attractions 1. Bamboo Train 🚂: This is the most unique experience in Battambang. It is not actually a real train, but a simple means of transportation made by locals using bamboo and wheels. Today, it has become a popular tourist attraction. Travel along the abandoned railway tracks, feel the breeze on your face, and admire the rice paddies, villages, and rivers along the way. When two bamboo trains meet, there is a unique "yielding" scene: the one with fewer people will quickly disassemble their bamboo train, move it behind the other, reassemble it, and continue their journey. It's quite interesting! 2. Bat Cave 🦇: At dusk, thousands of bats fly out of the cave, darkening the sky and forming a "black tornado". This spectacular scene is a natural wonder not to be missed in Battambang. Be sure to keep quiet while watching and do not startle the bats. The stalactites inside the cave are also worth seeing, as they look dreamlike under the light. 3. Phnom Sampeau 🛕: A historic Buddhist temple located on a small mountain. The temple blends traditional Khmer architectural styles. As you climb the steps, you can feel the strong religious atmosphere. Reaching the top of the mountain, you can overlook the vast rice paddies and distant mountains. Here, you can pray devoutly, listen to the monks chanting, and feel the power of faith. 4. Battambang Central Market 🛍️: This market is full of local life, selling a variety of unique handicrafts, clothing, souvenirs, fresh agricultural products, and food. Here you can find small items with Cambodian characteristics, taste authentic snacks, and experience the local pace of life. Recommended Local Specialties 1. Fish Amok 🐟: One of Battambang's signature dishes. Tender fish is combined with rich coconut milk and various spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed. It is fragrant and full of tropical flavor. You can find it in local restaurants. 2. Fresh Spring Rolls 🌯: Thin rice paper wraps fresh vegetables, meat, and shrimp. Dipped in a special sauce, it is a refreshing and delicious appetizer not to be missed. 3. Cambodian Grilled Meat 🍖: Fragrant grilled meat served with a fresh vegetable salad. The meat is tender, juicy, and has a unique flavor that will satisfy your taste buds. Important Notes ⚠️ 1. Language Communication: The locals mainly speak Khmer, and the level of English proficiency is generally not high. Simple daily communication may be difficult, so it is recommended to download a translation app. 2. Currency Exchange: The local currency is the riel and US dollars. You can exchange currency at banks, exchange offices, or some hotels. Pay attention to the exchange rate and handling fees. 3. Respecting Customs: Dress appropriately when entering temples and remove your shoes before entering. Respect local religious beliefs and customs, and do not take photos at will. 4. Food Hygiene: Try to choose reputable restaurants for meals. Avoid eating food and drinks from street vendors with questionable hygiene to prevent stomach upset.

Hey everyone, don't just focus on Siem Reap! Battambang, Cambodia, is equally charming! As the second largest city in Cambodia, it boasts authentic local customs and unique scenery, definitely worth a visit. Without further ado, here's your guide👇 📍Must-See Attractions 1. Bamboo Train 🚂: The most unique experience in Battambang. Sit on a simple bamboo carriage, feel the bumps of the railway, and enjoy the idyllic scenery of rice paddies and villages along the way. 2. Bat Cave 🦇: At sunset, millions of bats fly out, darkening the sky. It's a spectacular sight and a paradise for photographers. 3. Ek Phnom: A historic temple with Angkorian architecture. Although not as famous as Angkor Wat, it has a unique tranquility and mystery, allowing you to quietly feel the accumulation of history. 🍜Food Exploration 1. Cambodian Spring Rolls: Fresh vegetables paired with soft glutinous rice wrappers, dipped in special sauce, refreshing and appetizing. 2. Fish Amok: Cambodia's national dish. Tender fish is baked in banana leaves, creating a fragrant aroma. The fish melts in your mouth. 🚗Getting Around Tuk-tuks are very convenient within the city. Just negotiate the price with the driver in advance. You can rent a motorbike to visit surrounding attractions, which is free and easy, but pay attention to traffic safety. 🌟Tips 1. Remember to dress respectfully when visiting temples and avoid revealing clothing. 2. Battambang is hot. Be sure to protect yourself from the sun, stay hydrated, and bring heatstroke prevention medicine. Pack your bags and come to Battambang to encounter a different Cambodia!🎉

Hey friends, tired of the usual tourist traps in Cambodia? Then you must come to Battambang, a hidden gem that offers a completely different travel experience. - Getting there: Take a bus from Siem Reap. Tickets are affordable, and you can enjoy the scenery along the way. Once you arrive, tuk-tuks are your best bet for getting around. Negotiate a price with the driver and off you go 🚕 - Must-see attractions: The bamboo train is a blast! Sit in a simple "carriage" made of bamboo, feel the wind in your hair as you pass by rice paddies and villages, like stepping into a real-life Oz 🌾 Don't miss the bat cave either. At dusk, thousands of bats swarm out of the cave, a truly spectacular and goosebump-inducing sight! - Foodie delights: Cambodian barbecue is a must-try. Sizzling slices of meat, seasoned with special spices, wrapped in lettuce—pure satisfaction with every bite 🥩 And don't forget the palm sugar cakes, sweet and chewy, a local favorite that will melt your heart. - Accommodation recommendations: If your budget allows, choose a riverside resort hotel and wake up to stunning river views. For a more budget-friendly option, guesthouses in the city center are a great choice, allowing you to immerse yourself in local life 🛏️ Here, you won't find crowds of tourists, only authentic local culture. Come to Battambang and unlock a unique travel experience 🌈

🌟 Battambang, Cambodia: A Detailed Travel Guide 🌸 Today, I'll take you to Cambodia's second-largest city—Battambang. While not as famous as Siem Reap or Phnom Penh, it has a unique charm and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for travelers looking to escape the crowds. Best Time to Visit Battambang has a tropical monsoon climate, warm and humid year-round, making it suitable for travel in any season. However, the best time to visit is from November to March, when the weather is cool and ideal for outdoor activities. How to Get to Battambang - From Siem Reap: Hiring a private car (approx. 3-hour drive) is the most convenient option, saving time and allowing the driver to show you around. Public buses and boats are also inexpensive but take longer, making them less suitable for travelers on a tight schedule. - From Phnom Penh: You can also hire a private car or take a long-distance bus, with a journey time of approximately 6 hours. Must-See Attractions 1️⃣ Bamboo Train: This is Battambang's signature experience! The bamboo train is a simple mode of transportation made of bamboo, running on abandoned railway tracks. The thrilling ride is super exciting! Tickets cost around USD 3, and it's definitely worth a try. 2️⃣ Phnom Sampov: Located on top of Sampov Mountain, this temple is resplendent and offers a panoramic view of Battambang. The temple's interior and exterior are covered with murals, each telling an ancient story. 3️⃣ Bat Cave: Situated at Phnom Sampov, this cave is home to thousands of bats. At dusk, they fly out en masse to forage, creating a spectacular sight. You can buy a beer at the foot of the mountain, enjoy the sunset, and wait for the bats to emerge. 4️⃣ Killing Caves: A somber historical site, the Killing Caves bear witness to Battambang's tragic past. During the civil war, this was a place of execution for civilians. Skulls and remains are displayed inside the cave, a stark reminder of the cruelty of war. 5️⃣ Black Stick God Statue: This is the city symbol of Battambang, a dark-skinned statue wearing a golden hat, holding a golden basin in its hands, and dragging a black stick. Worshippers often gather in front of the statue, creating a mystical religious atmosphere. Food Recommendations - Local rice noodles: Starting your Battambang journey with a steaming bowl of rice noodles at a roadside stall is the perfect way to begin. The noodles come in two varieties: soup noodles and fried noodles. They are affordable and delicious! - Grilled snails and frogs: At the foot of Phnom Sampov near the Bat Cave, vendors offer a variety of grilled foods, with grilled snails and frogs being local specialties. - Fresh coconut: Buy a fresh coconut on the street, sip the coconut water, and enjoy the tropical vibes. Shopping Recommendations Battambang's local markets are unique and full of local life, even without many tourists. You can find local handicrafts, specialty snacks, and interact with locals, experiencing the authentic Cambodia. Accommodation Recommendations - Budget-friendly: Battambang offers many affordable guesthouses that are clean, comfortable, and offer excellent value for money. - Luxury hotels: If your budget allows, you can also choose from a range of luxury hotels for a more comfortable stay. Photo Spots - Bamboo Train: Capture the moment as you speed along the tracks—it's guaranteed to be a great shot! - Bat Cave Sunset: Sit in a rattan chair, watch thousands of bats fly out of the cave, and witness the sunset glow—a truly picturesque scene! - Phnom Sampov: The magnificent temple and the distant mountains provide a stunning backdrop. Tips - Transportation in Battambang is not very convenient. It is recommended to hire a private car or rent a motorbike. - Dress respectfully when visiting religious sites, avoiding overly revealing clothing. - If time permits, stay an extra day to enjoy the slow-paced life. Conclusion Battambang is a charming, off-the-beaten-path city with quiet streets, ancient temples, and welcoming locals, free from the hustle and bustle of crowds. If you're tired of the crowds at popular attractions, come to Battambang and experience its unique tranquility and beauty.

Most people only know Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh, but few come to Battambang. When I first arrived here, I didn't like it much either. The streets were dusty, and muddy on rainy days, and I wanted to leave as soon as possible. But when I left the central market area, I found it was actually very clean! 🤩 I randomly asked a tuk-tuk driver on the roadside, and he was very honest. He charged us $10 for a half-day tour and didn't rip us off. We went to the bat cave, museum, popular train tracks, suspension bridge, and a temple. The scenery along the way was beautiful, and the whole trip took 5 hours. 🦇 The bat cave is one of the most popular attractions here, and the ticket is $1. First, walk up the mountain road for 20 minutes to the Killing Cave, then continue to the top of the mountain, where the scenery is beautiful! Then ask the locals how to get down the mountain to see the bats. You must arrive at the foot of the mountain by 6 pm to wait for the bats. Depending on the weather, they sometimes come out earlier or later. A large group of bats fly out, which is quite spectacular! 🚌 There are direct buses from Poipet, Siem Reap, and Phnom Penh to Battambang. The promotional price for a bus from Phnom Penh to Battambang is $6, and the bus is very comfortable, from VET company. 🤔 The minibus from Battambang to Siem Reap is also in good condition, and the ticket is 30,000 riels or $7.5 on site. There are tuk-tuks waiting for passengers when you get off the bus, and they usually don't overcharge. A full-day charter is $20, and a half-day is $10. You can negotiate for longer distances. 🎉 In short, Battambang is a place worth visiting, with beautiful scenery, honest people, and unique culture. If you come to Cambodia, don't miss this hidden gem! 🎉

#JapanAirlineEvent Mysterious Bat Cave where you can see the migration of bats! Cambodia Battambang where you can see the migration of bats at sunset! If you go to Cambodia during your Southeast Asia trip, I recommend you visit Battambang! 📍 Battambang , Cambodia 🇰🇭

#JapanAirlineEvent A mysterious place where you can see the migration of bats! Every day at sunset, you can see the migration of thousands of bats in Battambang, Cambodia! I took an international bus from Bangkok, Thailand to Cambodia, and if you go to Cambodia during your trip to Southeast Asia, I recommend you visit Battambang! 📍Batambang, Cambodia 🇰🇭

Rode a motorbike up the mountain the check out the scenery and waited until 6:00 to see 6 million bats come out! Great experience! #travelcambodia