Getting from Battambang to Phnom Penh

About the journey from Battambang to Phnom Penh

While in Cambodia, traveling the 251 kilometers (156 miles) from Battambang to Phnom Penh provides great exploration of some of the country’s most culturally rich destinations, as well as some interesting sights between both locations. Phnom Penh, a city known as the “Pearl of Asia” has a mix of French, Chinese, and Cambodian architectural styles and designs. A worthwhile sight to visit is the Royal Palace which is constructed of gold, marble, and precious stones. An important part of Cambodian history is the Khmer Rouge regime, which you can learn all about at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh. For some tranquility, take a stroll along the riverside that spans the city. 

Travel from Battambang to Phnom Penh can be done by road with either buses, minivans, or cars. The journey takes around 5-6 hours with each operator. Bus travel is a sleeper option for extra comfort and the chance to rest. Minivan travel can be the fastest and most affordable option. Car travel is best for a private transfer. 

Arriving in Phnom Penh, the city is an exciting mix of city life, colorful buildings, and traditional pagodas with golden rooftops. Its location right along the riverbank connects this urbanized hub with more traditional Cambodian settlements further along the water.

 

What to see when traveling from Battambang to Phnom Penh

The journey from Battambang to Phnom Penh is taken by roads that pass by the Tonlé Sap Lake which is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and is home to communities that live on stilt villages. At the bottom of Tonlé Sap Lake, Tonlé Sap River flows all the way to Phnom Penh and forms a big part of the city’s landscape and visual appeal. 

In the regions on the route from Battambang to Phnom Penh, there are some beautiful green areas surrounding the lake as well as many huge national parks and wildlife sanctuaries such as Phnum Samkoh and Kirirom which are not too far away from Phnom Penh.

How to get from Battambang to Phnom Penh

 

Taking a bus

Bus travel from Battambang to Phnom Penh is an inexpensive option that takes around 6 hours. The bus has air conditioning and blankets for extra comfort. This is a sleeping bus, as there is just one departure per day in the late evening, meaning you will be arriving in Phnom Penh in the early hours of the morning. This also means the seats onboard are double beds, but you may have to share with another passenger.

 

Taking a minivan

Minivan travel from Battambang to Phnom Penh is the fastest and has the cheapest operator, although bus travel may only be a few dollars more. Minivans have the most operators to choose from with varying passenger capacities, so larger groups should be able to find a vehicle to accommodate them. A few minivan operators have some added extras in their service such as snacks and WiFi in the vehicles or accommodation pick up and drop off.

 

Taking a car 

Cars can take between 3-6 passengers from Battambang to Phnom Penh and is the priciest road travel option. Due to the price you can expect a comfy journey with accommodation pick up and drop off at a time of your choosing as standard. Most car operators offer free cancellations usually up to 24 hours before your departure. Cars have reasonable room for luggage and can make toilet stops when requested.

 

What is the best time of year to visit Battambang?

The dry season in Battambang spans November to April, while the most comfortable and cool months are from November to February.

 

What is the best time of year to visit Phnom Penh?

The best time to visit Phnom Penh is between November and February for the driest and most pleasant weather. The high season is between December and February when the historical sites will be busy.