Getting there

Battambang is located 170 kilometres to the south west of Siem Reap. Most travellers come here by bus, as the town airport is very small with almost non-existent flight schedules, so the best accessibility is by road.

The Capitol Tours Bus from Siem Reap takes approximately 3 hours and will cost around $4-6 USD one-way depending on the company you book through. You can also reach Battambang from Phnom Penh. This bus journey takes between 6 and 7 hours and will cost you approximately $6 – $8 through Capitol Tours. There is also the option to take the faster mini-bus from Phnom Penh to Battambang with Mekong Express. It will take approximately 4 to 5 hours however the price will increase to $12 – $14.

If you’re feeling a little more adventurous and have a little more time you can reach Battambang by boat from Siem Reap. The journey takes anywhere from 7 – 9 hours depending on the season and water levels, and the cost for the boat ride is $20 per person. It is a long journey but you will be rewarded with views of the lakeside communities and the real Cambodia.

Taxi’s also run from Siem Reap to Battambang. A taxi will cost you around $35 – $50 and will reduce your travel time slightly. This would be a good option if you were travelling in a group and could split the fare.