Battambang: Bamboo Train, Bat Cave and Killing Cave Tour

Introduction

If you’re heading to Battambang and want a taste of both its scenic countryside and its poignant history, the “Bamboo Train, Bat Cave, and Killing Cave Tour” is an excellent way to do it. This half-day excursion offers a genuine look into local life, natural wonders, and Cambodia’s darker past—all in a manageable six-hour window. We’ve been impressed by how this tour balances the fun and the meaningful, making it a standout experience for curious travelers.

Two things we love about this tour are the chance to ride the iconic bamboo train—an offbeat, fun transport experience—and the opportunity to witness the stunning bat flight at the cave, which is both mesmerizing and a little bit surreal. The tour also thoughtfully educates travelers about Cambodia’s history through visits to the Killing Cave, adding depth to the sightseeing.

That said, one consideration is that the bamboo train costs an extra $5 per person, which might feel a little unexpected if you’re not prepared for additional costs. Still, given the overall value, it’s easy to see why many find this a worthwhile addition.

This tour is perfect for travelers who love authentic experiences, enjoy learning about local culture, and don’t mind a bit of history mixed into their sightseeing. It suits those who want a comprehensive yet relaxed half-day adventure with knowledgeable guides and plenty of stops for photos and questions.

Key Points

• Authentic Cambodia: Get a genuine feel for Battambang’s countryside and daily life through small village visits and local insights.
• Cultural and historical depth: The tour visits the haunting Killing Cave and the bat emergence, offering a balance of history and nature.
• Affordable fun: At $15 per person, the tour offers excellent value, especially considering it includes guide, entrance fees, and hotel pickup.
• Expert guides: Highly praised guides, especially Bun, provide in-depth knowledge and stories that enrich the experience.
• Picturesque scenery: From the colonial buildings to river views and rural villages, the scenery is captivating and photo-worthy.
• Customizable pace: Multiple reviews highlight how guides stop for questions and explanations, making it flexible for curious travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour in Detail

Starting Out: From Your Hotel or Restaurant

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your hotel or restaurant in Krong Battambang around 1:00 pm. From there, your guide—a friendly, English-speaking local—begins by showing you the city’s landmarks such as the France colonial building, Wat Domrey Sor, and the governor’s house. These sites set the stage, giving a glimpse of Battambang’s colonial past and architectural charm.

What makes this part enjoyable isn’t just the sights but the way your guide shares stories and local knowledge. One reviewer appreciated Bun’s detailed explanations of Cambodian culture and history, saying he “answered all of our questions patiently” and brought the city’s history to life.

Scenic Drive to the Countryside

Next, the adventure takes you along the river, passing through small villages and rural landscapes. This is where you truly see Cambodia outside the tourist hotspots—simple homes, busy farmers, children playing—and often, a chance to stop and chat about local life.

A notable highlight here is crossing a suspension bridge, which offers views of the river and surrounding fields. The scenery is peaceful, and it’s a great photo-op, especially if you’re into rural landscapes.

The Bamboo Train: A Quirky Ride

The bamboo train is a quirky, fun highlight. For an extra $5, you hop onto a simple wooden platform laid over a narrow gauge rail track, powered by a small motor. This is not your typical train ride; it’s a uniquely Cambodian invention that’s both charming and a little adventurous.

Multiple reviewers rave about the fun of this ride. One described it as “an offbeat, enjoyable experience,” and it’s easy to see why—riding lightweight bamboo over uneven tracks feels like a step back in time and provides fantastic photo opportunities. Guides often stop along the way, offering stories about the train’s history and local uses, making it more than just a ride.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting the Killing Cave and Bat Cave

After the fun of the bamboo train, your journey takes a somber turn with visits to the Killing Cave. This site, which was used during Cambodia’s dark past, offers insight into the country’s history of tragedy. Most visitors find it a moving experience, especially when combined with the guide’s thoughtful commentary on Cambodia’s resilience and history.

Following this, you’ll head to the Bat Cave—a natural spectacle. As dusk approaches, thousands of bats emerge in a swirling, cloud-like flight. The sight of these creatures taking off en masse is breathtaking—an unforgettable sight that’s both beautiful and slightly surreal. Many reviews highlight how this is one of the most memorable moments of the tour, with comments like “seeing the bats fly out was a very memorable and moving experience.”

Return to Your Hotel

The tour wraps up with your guide returning you to your hotel or restaurant in Battambang around 7:00 pm. Throughout the journey, guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and patience—making the experience not just a sightseeing tour but a chance to learn and connect.

Value and Practical Considerations

This tour’s cost of $15 per person is quite reasonable when you consider what’s included: hotel pickup and drop-off, a local guide, drinking water, and entrance fees for the caves. The bamboo train is an extra, but at just $5, it’s a small price for the fun and unique ride.

The small group size—limited to 10 participants—means you get plenty of personalized attention. Many reviews highlight how guides like Bun go out of their way to answer questions and stop for explanations, making the experience more enriching.

One potential drawback is the extra cost of the bamboo train, which might surprise some travelers. However, for many, it’s well worth it given the experience’s authenticity and fun factor.

Timing-wise, starting at 1:00 pm allows for a relaxed afternoon without feeling rushed. The 6-hour duration makes it manageable even for those with tight schedules, and the duration allows ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling hurried.

Authenticity and Experience

What sets this tour apart is the chance to see real Cambodian life, learn about its history directly from knowledgeable guides, and witness natural phenomena like the bat emergence. The reviews consistently mention how guides shared stories about plants, local life, and history, adding layers of understanding beyond the typical tourist fare.

The guide Bun is often singled out for praise. Reviewers mention his ease of storytelling, fluency in English, and genuine interest in showing visitors the real Cambodia. As one reviewer put it, Bun “explained things in great detail and fluent English,” making complex history accessible and engaging.

The Sum Up

This Battambang tour offers a balanced mix of culture, history, and fun in a practical, well-priced package. It’s ideal for travelers who want more than just surface-level sights—those eager to learn and connect with Cambodia’s landscape and past. The inclusion of the bamboo train, the poignant visit to the killing cave, and the awe-inspiring bat flight combine to create a memorable, meaningful afternoon.

If you cherish authentic experiences, knowledgeable guides, and stunning scenery, this tour will be a highlight of your visit to Battambang. The small group setting and flexible pacing mean you’ll feel more like a guest than a tourist, gaining insights that stick with you long after you leave.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Battambang city, making it very convenient.

How much does the bamboo train cost?
The bamboo train ride costs an additional $5 per person and is paid directly at the site.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, a camera, sunscreen, and cash are recommended for a comfortable experience.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 1:00 pm, with pickup arranged from your hotel or restaurant in Battambang.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, ending around 7:00 pm.

Is the guide English-speaking?
Yes, the guides are fluent in English and known for their friendly, informative approach.

This tour offers a well-rounded look at Battambang’s scenery, history, and culture, delivered by guides who genuinely care about sharing Cambodia’s story. It’s a smart choice for those wanting to connect more deeply with this fascinating corner of Cambodia.

You can check availability for your dates here: