Battambang

Battambang' is Cambodia's second most populous city and a popular tourist destination due to the many nearby ancient temples, Buddhist shrines and the infamous bamboo railway. It is also the capital of Battambang Province.

Battambang Halal Travel Guide

Despite being Cambodia's second largest city, Battambang is often overlooked by those on the tourist trail who opt for the more popular Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. More quiet and less visited, however, Battambang has a less commercialized feel and provides an opportunity to see a slightly less Westernized Cambodian city. Remnants of French colonial architecture can still be spotted around the town, particularly north of the middle of the three main bridges and there are food and lodging options that will cater to most budgets/tastes.

Travel to Battambang

MapBattambang - Map of Battambang

By road

National Highway 5 is paved and from Battambang runs southeast to Phnom Penh and northwest to Sisophon and Poipet. At Sisophon, Highway 6 branches off to provide paved access to Siem Reap. In a car, Phnom Penh is around 4 hours away and Sisophon can be visited in just under 1 hour. By bus, Phnom Penh takes about 5-6 hours and cost about USD8-12. Siem Reap takes at least 3 hours and costs USD8-5. Poipet (Thai border): 2-3 hours, USD8-5

• Paramount Angkor Buses run twice daily from Battambang to Pailin via Highway 57 (2 hours) for USD8.
• PP Sorya buses go from Battambang to Bangkok, Phnom Penh, Poipet.

Travel by boat to Battambang

One boat a day travels from Siem Reap (for Angkor) to Battambang, departing Siem Reap at 07:00 and costs USD20. An interesting and very scenic journey along small rivers and the boat threads its way through numerous charming floating villages and past dozens of towering cantilevered fishing net installations. It can take between 6-12 hours, depending on the time of year (and hence the water level), however the time can be fairly accurately predicted by checking the time that the same boat arrived yesterday.

During the dry season, when the water level gets very low and the boats cannot get all the way to Battambang and the journey is completed by shuttle van or pick-up truck.

By rail

Daily trains from Poipet on the (Thai) border through Sisophon will connect to Battambang by the end of May 2018 and to Phnom Penh by the end of 2018.

Get Around in Battambang

The downtown is pretty compact and can be mostly explored by foot. Bicycles can be rented from most hotels or private companies for USD1-2 per day. Motorcycles can be rented from USD8 a day. The driving habits of local residents are hazardous. Police may try to fine tourists on motorbikes. If pulled over, stay calm, smile, take the key out of the ignition (to prevent the police trying to ransom it) and pay a small fine of USD1-2.

Tuk-tuks and motorbike drivers hang around popular tourist areas. As most of the interesting and useful destinations are quite close to each other, most rides should only cost you USD2-4. More distant trips like Phnom Sampouv (the "killing caves") will cost around USD 17 and can be combined with other destinations for a total of USD12-15.

Small boats serve as ferries (500 riel) and cross the river from in front of the market.

What to see in Battambang

• Battambang Circus The shows are fun, energetic and exciting and include a range of circus disciplines. The ticket price helps support the NGO school which works with disadvantaged children and teenagers.

Phnom Sampeou 01 - Phnom Sampeou

• Phnom Sampeu A hill with the killing caves of the Khmer Rouge, a few others caves adorned with Buddhist statues and a monastery with two Buddhist stupas on the hilltop. The admission charge also includes Wat Banan. It takes about 1 hours to climb the circuit to the monastery on top, with a short-cut leading back down to the shops and restaurants which line the approach road.
• Statues - Battambang is known for its statues, which seemingly decorate every public place. Most are of animals (mythical and real) and divinities. The most famous of these statues is on the primary street in from Phnom Penh and is of an ancient Khmer King holding a stick which he used to quell rebellions in the Battambang area. The name of the town and province derives from this legend.
• Wat Banan The so-called mini-Angkor Wat, an impressive flight of stairs lead up to a dilapidated Angkor-style temple which is still in use as a Buddhist shrine.
• Wat Baydamram A temple where hundreds of fruit bats live in trees under the protection of the Buddhist monks.

Wat Ek, Battambang province - 0001 - Wat Ek Phnom

• Wat Ek Phnom Angkor-type temple ruin. The road runs along lovely small rivers flanked by trees and small villages making it a generally nice area. Approaching Wat Ek Phnom, you suddenly encounter a giant Buddha statue in the wat, which is certainly picture-worthy. The grounds of the wat also have an Angkorian-era temple which is in relatively good shape and with some interesting carvings.
• Wat Samraong Knong Roughly translates as "wat in the forest". An extremely old pagoda on the east side of the Sangker River. The eerie old wat was used as a Khmer Rouge prison and there were many executions on the premises. A new pagoda is now being built and there is a memorial to the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime, with graphic illustrations, just to the north.

Muslim Travel Tips

Bamboo Train in Battambang province - (SF) 0001 - The bamboo train near Battambang

• Bamboo Train - The term "train" is here used loosely: a large bamboo platform mounted on train axles powered by a small go-kart engine. A trip on the train can be booked in most hotels or arranged with a motorbike/tuk-tuk driver. It is regulated by Battambang's Tourist Police, with a standard rate of USD8 per person, minimum 2 people or USD 17 for one person, with discounts for larger groups. Ask the driver to pause at scenic places. The Bamboo Train is running along the new track: it takes about 10 minutes to get to a stop where you can buy drinks and t-shirts:; it then returns along the same route.

• Soksabike Tours: Soksabike is a social enterprise dedicated to sustainable tourism in Battambang. They offer half day and full day bike tours around the nationside where guests can learn about the everyday life and culture of Cambodia. The money for the tour is distributed to families in the community along the way and goes to pay the salaries of the guides, all local university students. They use high-quality mountain bikes, provide a helmet and even include a coffee at one of the best cafes in town. ☎ +855 12542019* Bicycle Tours - Battambang Butterfly Tours | Takes you on a half-day or full-day trip to various sites around Battambang. The tour is an initiative run by university students and priced reasonably, around USD15 for a half day tour. The guides are students of English at the university level and provide an interesting local insight into life in Cambodia.
• Green Orange Kayak | Go on a beautiful Stung Sangker River voyage from the small village of Ksach Poy to Battambang, past riverside terraces and traditional bamboo houses. Get away from the dusty roads and learn first hand about traditional fishing and farming techniques. Half-day trip, 11 km.
• Volunteer Teaching English - Battambang Orphanage Village Assistance | Stay at a home stay in Samroang Khnong Village and volunteer to help teach English to children. Call Mr. Sophorn and he will pick you up from town and make you very welcome indeed. No experience or special skills are required, just a willingness to help the delightful local children speak a bit more English. The small price includes lodging.
• Battambang Countryside trip Offers tuk-tuk day trips to the nationside surrounding Battambang including seeing local crafts, temples and other major sites. Customised trips available.

Cooking classes

• Smokin' Pot Chef-owner Vannak of Battambang's long-running Smokin' Pot restaurant teaches the best cooking course in Cambodia. You'll meet Vannak outside the restaurant (right in the town center) and go by tuk-tuk to a produce market south of town to buy herbs, vegetables and fish; then you'll go to his house outside of town and spend about two hours cooking up several delicious Khmer dishes. The patio-turned-training-kitchen is authentically Khmer, making this class a great insight into how most of Cambodia cooks and eats. Vannak's is very knowledgable about Khmer cuisine and speaks excellent English, so everyone (from amateurs to pro cooks) will learn something.

Shopping in Battambang

PsarNat - Battambang's central market

• Heng Chhay Ly Supermarket with limited halal Snacks imported from Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia.

• Psar Nath & Psar Boeung Chhoeuk (Public markets) - fruit stalls.

• Lucky Supermarket

Halal Restaurants & Food in Battambang

There are plenty of places to eat, but after 19:00 some places close and lots of streets become dark, so eating early (around 18:00) is recommended.

You can get some great French-style bread (by French standards) for 1,6000 riel a medium-size baguette up north, between the French cultural centre and the giant statue marking the entry in Battambang from the main inter-provincial road. The bread that street sellers have elsewhere in town is of a much lower standard for the same price, similar to that found in Phnom Penh, baguette-shapes, but sprinkled with sugar. Some people do not notice any difference between the bread sold in the north and elsewhere in Battambang. It is generally of nice quality all across the city.

• Flavors of India, Street 121 (Near intersection with Road 1.5),  +855 53 731 553. 11:00-22:00. Excellent North Indian dishes, lassi and interesting entrees. Mains from USD 5-8.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Battambang

Battambang - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Battambang, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Battambang. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Battambang and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Battambang. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Battambang. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Battambang: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Battambang.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Battambang: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Battambang, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Battambang.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Battambang, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Battambang, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Battambang and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Battambang, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Battambang, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Battambang without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Battambang is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Battambang.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Battambang is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Battambang, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Battambang Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Battambang

eHalal Group Battambang is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Battambang. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Battambang.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Battambang ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Battambang. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Battambang, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Battambang are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Ramadan Celebrations in Battambang

Ramadan 2025 in Battambang

Ramadan concludes with the festival of Eid al-Fitr, which may last several days, usually three in most countries.

The next Ramadan shall be from Friday, 28 February 2025 to Saturday, 29 March 2025

The next Eid al-Adha shall be on Friday, 6 June 2025

The next day of Raʾs al-Sana shall be on Thursday, 26 June 2025

The next day for Mawlid al-Nabī shall be on Monday, 16 September 2024

Muslim Friendly Hotels

• Chhaya Hotel and Serviced Apartments | Single, double and triple rooms, both air-con and fan. Cable TV. The cheaper hotel rooms have a shared bathroom and the more expensive ones have private facilities and a refrigerator. Serviced apartments have large rooms with kitchenette and balconies, large en suite bath, Wi-Fi, cable TV. 24 hours security, free airport/bus station/boat harbour transfers.

• Golden River Hotel Good clean hotel with the standard facilities you will find elsewhere in Battambang. Staff are helpful and friendly.
• Holiday Hotel | Good hotel with elevator and large reception area. Rooms have air-con, Wi-Fi, cable TV and en suite bath.

• Seng Hout Hotel Good hotel with elevator and large reception area. Rooms have air-con or optional cheaper fan, free Wi-Fi, cable TV, refrigerator, hot and cold water and en suite bath. Rooftop cafe with 360⁰ views.

• Bambu Hotel | 16 rooms, including 4 suite rooms (32 sq m including bath), 6 deluxe superior rooms (27 sq m including bath), 4 deluxe standard rooms (27 sq m including bath). All have en suite baths, air-con, telephone, cable TV, DVD player, access to DVD library, iPod docker, mini bar, safe and private terrace or balcony. Free Wi-Fi, 2 computer terminals in reception for use by guests, salt water swimming swimmingpool (14 m x 6) open from 08:00-21:00.

• La Villa Guesthouse with a swimming swimmingpool in a renovated 1930s French colonial period villa, art Deco furniture and fittings. 7 rooms (6 in the main house and 1 in the house nearby the swimming pool). Each room has a private toilet with bath or shower, hot and cold water, air-con, fan, TV and cable network, 4 poster bed with mosquito net, light summer duvet, wardrobe, work desk, safe, coffee and tea facilities, DVD player with DVD for rent. Book ahead as it is often full.

Telecommunications

• Battambang Buzz A free guide book. Available at restaurants throughout Battambang.

Go Next

• Phnom Penh
• Siem Reap (for Angkor)

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