Activities in Battambang
-
bamboo train
The bamboo train is one of the world's all-time classic rail journeys. From O Dambong, on the east bank 3.7km south of Battambang's Old Stone Bridge, the train runs southeast to O Sra Lav, via half an hour of clicks and clacks along warped, misaligned rails and vertiginous bridges left by the French.
Each bamboo train - known in Khmer as a norry (nori) - consists of a 3m-long wood frame, covered lengthwise with slats made of ultra-light bamboo, that rests on two barbell-like bogies, the aft one connected by fan belts to a 6HP gasoline engine. Pile on 10 or 15 people or up to three tonnes of rice, crank it up and you can cruise along at about 15km/h.
The genius of the syst…
reviewed
-
A
aerobics
In New York or London they may be achieving inner harmony with tai chi, but here in Battambang they're burning off the rice carbs doing classic Western aerobics, held each evening from about 17:30 to 19:00 on the East Bank north of the Old Stone Bridge. Led by a local hunk with a portable sound system, just five minutes of working out should be enough to teach you how to count in Khmer - at least up to four.
reviewed
-
Phare Ponleu Selpak
Phare Ponleu Selpak, a multi-arts centre for disadvantaged children, puts on circus shows and dance performances. From Monday to Friday, it's often possible to observe the drawing, music, dance and circus students practising and see an exhibition of students' art. To get there from the Vishnu Roundabout on NH5, head west for 900m and then turn right (north) and go 600m.
reviewed
-
B
Agricultural Development Action
If you'd like to see rural development projects in action, contact Agricultural Development Action a day or two ahead to arrange an all-day (07:00 to 19:00) tour by 4WD (around US$150 for up to three people, including translator and meals).
reviewed
-
C
Victory Club
You can swim and use the fitness machines at the Victory Club, a sports club popular with Battambang's jeunesse dorée (golden youth). The lockers are lockable but not secure enough for valuables.
reviewed
-
D
Tourism Photo Shop
For as little as around US$2, you can pose in traditional Khmer costume and have your photo taken at Tourism Photo Shop along the waterfront. Prices include makeup and a suitably kitschy background.
reviewed
-
E
Nikon Photo Studio
For as little as around US$2, you can pose in traditional Khmer costume and have your photo taken at Nikon Photo Studio along the waterfront. Prices include makeup and a suitably kitschy background.
reviewed
