Phnom Penh to Battambang Travel – Bus, Taxi, And Coach Guide

Travelling from the Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh to Battambang takes you through beautiful rural scenery. You can see a quaint colonial river town with an array of cultural experiences that will be remembered for years to come.

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Overview Of Phnom Penh To Battambang

A trip from Phnom Penh to Battambang takes you through beautiful Cambodia! Most travelers will visit the busy capital city of Phnom Penh first, where they can see historic landmarks and experience the riverfront activity before heading north-westward into the real heart of Cambodia, with its slower pace of life. The road between these two cities takes you through rural areas, quaint villages, and endless rice fields that show how Cambodians live outside of the tourist centres.

Battambang is known for its laid-back vibe and artistic culture and provides a nice contrast to the hustle and bustle of Phnom Penh. Battambang also has French Colonial architecture, and there are some fun places to visit there, such as the Bamboo Train and the sunset show at Bat Cave. Combining Battambang and Phnom Penh makes for an excellent, well-rounded travel experience and gives travelers a chance to see and experience many different aspects of Cambodia, including culture, history, nature, and lifestyle!

How Far Is It From Phnom Penh To Battambang?

The highway distance between Phnom Penh and Battambang is nearly 290 kilometers. Travel time in a car averages about 4.5-6 hours but varies according to traffic flow, road conditions, and other factors. Because there are no scheduled flights between Phnom Penh and Battambang, bus, taxi, or personal vehicle is the most accepted and practical means of transportation.

How to Travel From Phnom Penh To Battambang?

Traveling between Phnom Penh and Battambang can be done in many different ways, depending on your personal preference for speed, comfort, and scenic views. The variety of transport means will allow you to create an individual experience that fits your budget and style of travel.

By Bus

A trip using a bus route connecting Phnom Penh to Battambang remains one of the most common methods to undertake this trip, partly because there are no flights linking the two towns. There are several good companies that offer such services. You can consider traveling early in the morning until early afternoon. Using a good vehicle, this trip would only consume a maximum of 5 hours. This time may go up to 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

Buses leaving from Phnom Penh, perhaps adjacent to a station near Orussey Market or a major city bus station, will put you out at Battambang station (or a similar location for a minivan route). You may be able to upgrade to one of the more comfortable ‘VIP’ class buses that include extras such as A/C and fewer stops.

Factors	Details
Estimated travel time	5-6 hours
Estimated price	USD 8–17
Seat classes available	Minivan, VIP bus, standard bus. VIP/minivan offers better comfort & amenities
Best for	People with budgets looking for effective and uncomplicated traveling, lone adventurers, and small parties; those with flexible schedules
Notes	Pre-book for peak periods; for comfort, use VIP or minivan buses. Bring water and snacks along in case of a delay.

By Taxi

Taking a private taxi transfer directly from Phnom Penh to Battambang stands out as one of the most convenient and comfortable means possible. This would be ideal for someone who wants convenience and ease in traveling. You can choose when to leave and when to arrive with a transfer. Taking a transfer may be ideal for a family. A particular route taken between Phnom Penh and Battambang has a smooth road. Additionally, most transfers between Phnom Penh and Battambang can be completed in 5 to 6 hours. This may be between 290 and 300 km.

As taxis are relatively more costly compared to buses or vans, this would be a better fit for those who prioritize their privacy and flexibility. This option often comes with added perks such as SUVs/vans with A/C and English-speaking drivers. This would definitely be a great fit for those traveling with their loved ones.

Factors	Details
Estimated travel time	5-6 hours
Estimated price	USD 65-150 for a standard 4-seat SUV or minivan
Vehicle types available	SUV (4 pax), minivan (5-8 pax), van/minibus for larger groups
Best for	People who prefer comfort, flexibility in travel, group travel, family with luggage, and those who prioritize convenience over affordability
Notes	Booking ahead is a good idea. Be sure to check about the cost of tolls, fuel, and dropping off passengers at your hotel. This may add time to your trip depending on additional stops.

By Coach

The coach option is the preferred method for budget-conscious individuals, solo travelers, and small groups traveling to Battambang from Phnom Penh, as there are many operators that provide multiple services per day along this corridor. Most operators operate several times daily. The travel time between Phnom Penh and Battambang is approximately 5-6hours by van/minibus due to several recent improvements in the roadway infrastructure.

Most coach services will depart from Phnom Penh in the morning and get you into Battambang before the late part of the afternoon. Most transport companies (including VIP vans) will provide air conditioning, comfortable seats, and a shortened number of stops, making your journey comfortable and efficient. Online booking through travel websites or tour companies like Seni World is as simple as offering a variety of options to suit your budget.

Factors	Details
Estimated travel time	5-6 hours
Estimated price	8-17 USD depending on class and operator
Seat classes	Standard minivan, VIP van. VIP vans offer better comfort and fewer stops
Best for	Budget traveler, solo traveler, small group traveler, without personal means of transport
Notes	Book in advance. Vans may fill up pretty quickly; choose a VIP van if comfort is a priority. Luggage space may be a problem – pack light.

By Train

Taking a train from Phnom Penh to Battambang with Royal Railway Cambodia is a budget-friendly and very scenic experience to see Cambodia’s rural areas. The daily train service departs from Phnom Penh most days at about 6:40 AM, arriving at around 1:00 PM after travelling 6-7 hours on the train. Not only does this give you plenty of time to view rural life, small towns, and rice paddy fields as they pass by, but it also provides an opportunity to relax and enjoy the beauty of the countryside.

A one-way adult fare to Battambang, Cambodia, by the Royal Railway is a very cost-effective way to travel to Battambang. It generally costs 7-8 USD each way, with tickets available for purchase at either the Royal Railway Station in Phnom Penh or online before departure, and trains depart from and travel through other stations en route to Battambang.

Factors	Details
Estimated travel time	6-7 hours
Estimated price	7-8 USD depending on class and operator
Best for	Travelers who seek an affordable, cultural experience and a leisurely, picturesque trip through the Cambodian countryside.
Notes	Bring water and snacks, and be ready for a basic onboard experience because the train moves more slowly than buses.

Tips For Traveling From Phnom Penh To Battambang

Whatever mode of transport you decide upon to travel from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, to Battambang, Cambodia, we hope this article offers the best advice based on experience and practice to make your trip enjoyable and comfortable.

Reserve your bus ticket from Phnom Penh to Battambang or hire a car as soon as you book your flight if you’re travelling during peak season.
Make sure that when you stop for food or drink at roadside locations, you have enough cash on hand because ATMs tend to be few and far between at roadside locations, particularly in rural areas.
Pack some drinks or snacks, as well as tissues. The drive itself can be long based on traffic conditions.
Leave Phnom Penh early in the morning. This will allow you to make good time, avoid the heat of the day, and get through check-in upon your arrival in Battambang. You should visit during the dry season, from November to April, which is ideal for smooth travel.
Download offline maps prior to leaving the city, and also a translation app, as data service is typically not as reliable once outside of the city limits.
If you are renting a car with a driver, negotiate the total price prior to departure and check if you are responsible for paying for fuel and tolls.
While in Battambang, try to stay within walking distance of the Central Market area, as this is where you will find many of the restaurants, markets, and main tourist attractions like Phnom Sampov and the Bamboo Train.

Recommended Stops Along the Way

Here are some recommended stops for your road trip itinerary for traveling from Phnom Penh to Battambang. This selection of stops gives a great combination of culture, nature, and a true Cambodian experience. All of these stops can help break your trip up, along with providing much more to your vacation.

Oudong Mountain (Udong Meanchey)

Oudong Mountain, where the royal capital of Cambodia was once situated, 40 km northwest of Phnom Penh, boasts a series of holy temples and grand stupas with a hilltop offering incredible views. Visitors can climb up a stairway featuring statues leading to this site with a focus on Khmer architecture while learning more about devotees offering sacrifices. This spot holds great significance in history and religious contexts.

Kampong Chhnang Pottery Village

Kampong Chhnang Province boasts a historic ceramics-making culture. It would be a great place to visit for a glimpse of this culture. You can visit some family workshops where locals make pots and other household wares using local rice field clay. This would be a great opportunity for a traveler to witness how locals make ceramics right before one’s eyes.

FAQs About Traveling From Phnom Penh To Battambang

When planning a trip from Phnom Penh to Battambang, travelers often have many questions about their trip. This information will assist you in your preparations for your trip, as well as save you time and help you make the most of your travel experience.

Is the Phnom Penh to Battambang route safe for travelers?

Most of the time, the route between Phnom Penh and Battambang is a safe route for tourists and locals to use, as it is a well-travelled route. The roads have improved in the past few years, providing for a smoother trip. Always keep your valuables secured and use a reputable company to provide your transportation.

Is there a scenic route for photography lovers?

Yes, between Phnom Penh and Battambang, there is a lot of beautiful countryside to take photographs of. In particular, the area where there are stilted houses and rice paddies is exceptionally beautiful. You will pass through cities, Kampong Chhnang and Pursat, which offer excellent photo opportunities. Early mornings and late afternoons would have the greatest opportunity for taking photographs with the best lighting options.

Is Battambang a good place to visit after Phnom Penh?

Battambang is definitely a good place to visit! Since Battambang is less crowded than Phnom Penh, it has a more relaxed and casual feel. You get to experience colonial architecture, artsy coffee shops, and the countryside. In Battambang, you can experience the Bamboo Train, Phare Circus, and ancient temples. Battambang offers a cultural experience in contrast to the frenetic pace of the capital city.

Final Thoughts

A trip from Phnom Penh to Battambang can be a very enlightening one. Whether one looks for culture, history, or a true local experience, Battambang has something for those looking for something a little out of the ordinary compared to life in Phnom Penh. The trip to Battambang itself also serves as a great adventure for those interested in getting a glimpse of typical life in Cambodia. Of course, with expert planning, this trip can be made incredibly smooth. So, for those looking to make the most out of a trip from Phnom Penh to Battambang, Seni World can be a great guide.

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