Bamboo Train Battambang: Scenic Rides Through Cambodia

The Bamboo Train in Battambang, Cambodia, offers a unique and thrilling experience. This traditional “norry” lets visitors ride on a simple bamboo platform along old railway tracks, while enjoying scenic countryside views and glimpses of local village life.

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Introduction To The Bamboo Train Battambang

Cambodia’s Bamboo Train, or Norry (as it is called locally), offers an adventurous and practical attraction in Battambang. The Bamboo Train started as a mode of transportation for village communities and operated on railway tracks. The Bamboo Train uses old railway tracks with a small motor. When two Bamboo Trains meet, one is lifted off the track to let the other train pass, making it a fun and memorable ride. This quirky tradition demonstrates the community’s playful spirit and creativity.

Traveling on the Bamboo train is a wonderful experience because it provides you with some time to soak up the beautiful countryside of Cambodia. The Bamboo Train travels slowly through lush green fields, rice paddy farms, and small communities, allowing you to take in the beauty of the area while enjoying the fresh air, melodious bird songs, and seeing daily life happening around you. Being on the bamboo train platform provides great pictures and a complete connection to the countryside.

History Of The Bamboo Train Battambang

Bamboo Train (or known as a Norry) was established in Battambang, Cambodia, during the early to late 1980s and early 1990s. Originally, it was used as an inexpensive way to transport goods and people over the existing railways, originally built by the French.

As the Bamboo Train grew in popularity, it evolved into an important mode of transportation for both tourists and locals, transporting both passengers and freight between Battambang and nearby towns. It is now primarily utilized for local tours of Battambang’s beautiful countryside along the same tracks used to carry freight and pass from one location to another.

Unique Architecture Of The Bamboo Train Battambang

The Bamboo Train in Battambang, also known as the Norry, is built from a large bamboo or wooden plank placed on a wooden frame fitted with wheels. This design resembles a flat platform on wheels that runs along the old railway tracks.

Bamboo Train is built from a large bamboo or wooden plank

The structure consists of a sturdy plank serving as the floor, supported by a wooden frame underneath that holds the wheels in place. The train is powered by a small gasoline engine, providing enough force to move it along the tracks. For stopping, it uses a simple braking system, usually a foot-operated brake controlled by the operator. Despite its simplicity, this ingenious construction allows the Bamboo Train to transport passengers and goods efficiently while offering a unique, hands-on travel experience.

5 Unforgettable Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss

Visiting the Bamboo Train in Battambang is more than just riding an unusual train. It’s an immersive experience that lets you see Cambodian ingenuity, explore rural life, and enjoy scenic landscapes. Each activity offers a chance to connect with local culture in a unique and memorable way.

Ride The Bamboo Train

The main highlight of the Battambang experience is riding the Bamboo Train, a thrilling and authentic activity. You sit atop a bamboo platform mounted on wheels, powered by a small gasoline engine, and glide along the old railway tracks. The ride can reach surprising speeds, with the wind rushing past and the countryside unfolding around you. It’s both fun and slightly adrenaline-pumping, giving you a firsthand sense of how locals once used this ingenious form of transportation. The simplicity of the train contrasts beautifully with the picturesque landscapes it crosses.

Visit Nearby Peaceful Villages

As the train travels through the countryside, you pass several small villages, giving you an intimate look at daily rural life. Children wave, farmers tend their rice paddies, and locals go about their routines in charming simplicity. Observing these moments offers insight into Cambodian culture beyond the cities. You may even interact with villagers, ask questions about their lifestyle, or see traditional practices still alive today, making the ride educational as well as scenic.

Observe Some Traditional Craftsmanship

Several stops along the Bamboo Train route allow visitors to see local artisans at work. Craftspeople skillfully manipulate bamboo, wood, and other natural materials to create everyday objects or decorative items. Watching them work highlights the ingenuity and patience involved in traditional Cambodian craftsmanship. Some artisans may even offer short demonstrations or allow you to try simple techniques yourself, giving you a deeper appreciation for these age-old skills and the effort behind each handmade creation.

Take Photos Of Scenic Countryside

The ride provides countless opportunities to capture stunning photographs of the Cambodian countryside. You’ll see rice paddies stretching to the horizon, coconut palms swaying in the breeze, and quaint villages dotting the landscape. Morning or late afternoon rides are ideal for photography, as the soft golden sunlight enhances the colors and shadows of the scenery. Whether you are an amateur or professional photographer, the combination of traditional trains and lush landscapes creates a uniquely photogenic experience.

Experience The Local Market Atmosphere

Some Bamboo Train Battambang stops are home to small local markets, where villagers sell fresh fruits, handmade goods, snacks, and drinks. It’s a lively scene that adds another layer to your visit. You can sample Cambodian delicacies, interact with vendors, and purchase souvenirs that support the local economy. This adds a cultural and culinary dimension to the adventure, making the trip not only visually memorable but also rich in local flavors and traditions.

Entrance Fee

Visitors to the Bamboo Train located in Battambang can expect a unique experience with a round-trip ticket usually priced from 8 to 10 USD. The ride takes individuals through the beautiful rural environment of Cambodia, which includes beautiful rice farms and picturesque village scenes, thus giving them a real insight into life in rural Cambodia.

Best Time To Enjoy The Bamboo Train Battambang

In the dry season of November through April in Battambang, Battambang’s Bamboo Train offers the best opportunity for enjoyment. This is when it is pleasant and safe to ride on the tracks.

During early mornings and late afternoons, the temperatures are not as hot, and the sun is at its highest for great lighting to take in the beauty of the rice fields, giving the experience a more beautiful feel. This also gives you the chance to go slowly through the countryside with fewer people around, allowing you to enjoy the peace and quiet.

How To Get To The Bamboo Train

To reach the Bamboo Train in Battambang, you first need to get to Battambang city, which can be done by bus or private car from Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. High-quality buses from Phnom Penh cost around 8-12 USD and take about 5-6 hours. In contrast, flights from Phnom Penh or Siem Reap take roughly 40-50 minutes, with tickets ranging from 50-80 USD.

Once in Battambang, tuk-tuks are the most popular way to reach the Bamboo Train station, costing 2-5 USD per ride. Motorbike rentals offer more flexibility for around 5-10 USD per day. Some guesthouses and travel agencies also offer private car transfers or guided tours, which typically cost 15-25 USD, depending on the distance and the number of travelers. The boarding area is easy to find, and locals are usually willing to give directions. Visiting early in the morning is recommended to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures while riding the train.

Things To Know Before Traveling To The Bamboo Train

Before visiting the Bamboo Train in Battambang, it’s helpful to know some practical tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. From ticketing to safety, these suggestions will help you make the most of your ride.

Arrive early to avoid long waits, especially during weekends or Cambodian holidays when the Bamboo Train is busiest.
Bring cash in small denominations (USD is widely accepted) for tickets and any snacks or souvenirs along the route.
Use comfy clothes and shoes with closed-toe shoes because it’s going to be bumpy when you’re riding, plus it’s a low-to-the-ground platform.
Make sure to keep your hands and things inside the train at all times, so nothing falls out or accidental injuries occur.
Be aware of local customs and how the villagers relate to the train, as many of them use the train and still use the train as part of their daily lives.
Think about combining the Bamboo Train ride with other nearby village trips where traditional crafts and the local market are.
Make sure to check the weather forecast before riding, because if there is heavy rain, it may affect train operation or make the train track slippery to walk on.
You can combine exploring other attractions in Battambang, like the dark Bat Cave or sacred Wat Banan.

visit bat cave in battambang

FAQs About The Bamboo Train Battambang

The Bamboo Train in Battambang is a unique attraction that often raises questions for first-time visitors. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you plan your visit and enjoy the experience to the fullest.

How long does a typical Bamboo Train ride take?

A standard ride usually lasts around 20-30 minutes one way, depending on how far you go along the tracks. Some tours allow you to ride back and forth, giving a total experience of 45-60 minutes. It’s enough time to enjoy the countryside views and take memorable photos.

How much does a Bamboo Train ticket cost?

The cost of a round-trip ticket ranges from 5-10 USD. Ticket prices may vary slightly depending on the time of year or the operator providing the ride. The ride itself offers a great deal of value and is a very affordable way to experience a different culture.

Is the Bamboo Train safe for tourists?

Yes, the Bamboo Train is generally safe, but it is a simple vehicle without modern safety features. Riders should remain seated and follow the operator’s instructions. Children should be supervised, and it is recommended to hold on to their belongings during the ride.

Can I take the Bamboo Train from Battambang to another city?

No, the Bamboo Train only operates on a short section of the old tracks near Battambang. It is designed for sightseeing rather than transportation between cities. For traveling longer distances, buses, taxis, or motorbikes are recommended.

Are there other activities near the Bamboo Train?

Around the railway tracks are rice paddies, small local villages, and traditional markets. You will also be able to visit some of the area’s temples, local farms, and be guided through Battambang to fully immerse yourself in the daily life and culture of Cambodia.

How do I book a Bamboo Train ride?

You can usually buy tickets directly at the Bamboo Train station in Battambang, with no need for advance booking. Some local tour operators also include it in guided tours, which can be convenient if you want transportation and a local guide. Booking a tour ensures you have a reserved seat during busy periods, especially on weekends or holidays.

Final Thoughts: Is The Bamboo Train Worth Visiting?

The Bamboo Train Battambang offers a truly unique experience that blends adventure, local culture, and stunning rural scenery. Riding these simple yet ingenious bamboo carts lets you see Cambodia from a fresh perspective while enjoying the thrill of a quirky, playful tradition. The slow pace allows travelers to fully appreciate the surrounding rice paddies, villages, and natural beauty. For anyone visiting Battambang, a ride on the Bamboo Train is an unforgettable highlight you shouldn’t miss – explore it with Seni World for the best Cambodia tours.

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