Customs and Culture Half Day Walk and Bike Tour in Battambang
Active
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Your guide will take you by bicycle to witness first hand the melting pot of cultures, ethnicities and religions, that exist in modern Cambodia. First we visit families in a Muslim fishing village outside of Battambang. We will explore the village on foot and learn about their traditional livelihoods, family history, and ways of living. After getting some coffee and quick rest, we will ride through the countryside and arrive at a Buddhist temple, where you will have a chance to chat with a young, friendly Buddhist monk. The tour includes a Cambodian style lunch at a family home.
Available options
Customs and Culture Half Day Walk and Bike Tour in Battambang
Pickup included
What's included
One drink from Kinyei Cafe before or after the tour
A crash course on basic Khmer, the Cambodian language, so you can greet the locals in their language.
Lunch
Water and snack along the way
Helmet
Compensation to families tour visits
Friendly, English-speaking, First-Aid Certified local guide
High quality imported Mountain bike (Giant, Trek, GT)
Tuk Tuk pick up in the morning from your hotel
Detailed itinerary
1
This half-day bicycle tour offers a unique opportunity to experience Cambodian culture beyond the usual tourist sites. Led by friendly local guides, you'll cycle through scenic countryside, visiting a Muslim village. Here, you'll meet artisans like net weavers and fishermen, and learn about the importance of dried fish in Cambodian cuisine.
The ride continues through verdant rice fields, where you'll gain insights into rice cultivation, the lifeblood of Cambodia. A stop at a charming local Muslim cafe provides a refreshing break before exploring a beautiful Buddhist temple. There, you can converse with a young monk and gain a deeper understanding of their way of life and Buddhist culture.
The tour concludes with a delicious and authentic Cambodian lunch. This experience is suitable for all fitness levels, with a manageable 17 km ride. Convenient hotel pick-up ensures a hassle-free morning, and the tour returns by 12:30 PM, leaving you with an afternoon to explore further.
What's not included
Drop off at hotel after the tour
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please wear clothing that covers your shoulders out of respect for rural culture. Please be sure to wear sunscreen. We provide water but we suggest using a backpack for any other things you'd like to bring like cameras, etc as there are no baskets on the bikes.
Important notes
Hotel pickups commence prior to this time
About Battambang
Battambang is a charming provincial capital known for its well-preserved French colonial architecture, vibrant local culture, and stunning natural surroundings. It offers a mix of historical sites, scenic landscapes, and authentic Cambodian experiences, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a more laid-back and culturally rich experience in Cambodia.
Top Attractions
Battambang Bamboo Train
The Battambang Bamboo Train is a unique and thrilling way to explore the Cambodian countryside. Riders board a simple bamboo carriage mounted on rails, powered by a small engine, and enjoy a scenic ride through rice fields and rural landscapes.
Adventure
1-2 hours
Moderate
Phare Ponleu Selpak
Phare Ponleu Selpak is a non-profit organization that provides arts education and training to Cambodian children and young adults. The organization is known for its circus performances, which showcase traditional and contemporary Cambodian arts and culture.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Moderate
Wat Banan
Wat Banan is a historic temple complex located atop a hill, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The temple features ancient Khmer ruins and intricate carvings, providing a glimpse into Cambodia's rich cultural heritage.
Historical
2-3 hours
Moderate
Battambang Provincial Museum
The Battambang Provincial Museum showcases the history and culture of the Battambang region through a collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits. The museum provides valuable insights into the area's rich heritage and historical significance.
Historical
1 hour
Low
Killing Caves (Phnom Sampeau)
Phnom Sampeau is a hilltop site with historical significance, featuring a natural cave system and a memorial to the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime. The site offers a somber but important glimpse into Cambodia's recent history.
Historical
2-3 hours
Low to Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Nom Banh Chok
A traditional Cambodian rice noodle dish topped with a green fish-based curry gravy, often served with fresh herbs and vegetables.
Breakfast
Vegetarian options available
Fish Amok
A steamed fish curry made with coconut milk, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves, often served in a banana leaf.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish
Bai Sach Chrouk
A popular breakfast dish consisting of grilled pork served with rice and pickled vegetables.
Breakfast
Contains pork
Lok Lak
A stir-fried beef dish with onions and a tangy lime-pepper dipping sauce, often served with rice and a fried egg.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains beef and eggs
Popular Activities
Bamboo Train ride
Hiking to Wat Banan
Riverside dining
Coffee shop hopping
Phare Ponleu Selpak performances
Visiting temples and historical sites
Boat tours on the Sangke River
Not applicable
Best Time to Visit
November to February
The best time to visit Battambang is during the dry season when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor activities are enjoyable. This period offers the most comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall.
22°C - 32°C
72°F - 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Khmer
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Cambodian Riel (KHR)
Time Zone
GMT+7
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Battambang is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas and tourist spots. It's important to take precautions to protect your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
- • Use reputable tour operators and avoid touts and fake tour guides.
- • Be cautious when using public transportation and always agree on the fare before starting your journey.
Getting there
By air
- Siem Reap International Airport • 170 km (105 miles) from Battambang
By train
Battambang Railway Station
By bus
Battambang Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Battambang. They connect the city center to various neighborhoods and nearby towns.
Taxis
Available • Apps: PassApp
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Sangke River Area
Phare Ponleu Selpak Area
Day trips
Wat Ek Phnom
40 km (25 miles) from Battambang • Half day
Wat Ek Phnom is a historic temple complex located in the nearby town of Ek Phnom. The temple features ancient Khmer ruins and intricate carvings, providing a glimpse into Cambodia's rich cultural heritage.
Wat Banan
15 km (9 miles) from Battambang • Half day
Wat Banan is a historic temple complex located atop a hill, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The temple features ancient Khmer ruins and intricate carvings, providing a glimpse into Cambodia's rich cultural heritage.
Kampong Chhnang
60 km (37 miles) from Battambang • Full day
Kampong Chhnang is a nearby town known for its pottery and silk production. The town offers a unique glimpse into traditional Cambodian crafts and the daily life of local artisans.
Festivals
Battambang Festival • December
Water Festival (Bon Om Touk) • November
Pro tips
- Visit the Bamboo Train in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
- Try local street food and snacks, such as Nom Banh Chok and Fried Tarantulas, for an authentic and memorable culinary experience.
- Explore the city's markets, such as Psar Nat and Psar Boeung Chhuk, for unique souvenirs and a glimpse into the daily life of Battambang's residents.
- Attend a performance at Phare Ponleu Selpak for a unique and captivating cultural experience that showcases traditional and contemporary Cambodian arts.
- Hike to the top of Phnom Sampeau for stunning views of the surrounding countryside and a visit to the Killing Caves memorial.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
