Battambang

Battambang is the second-largest city in Cambodia with a population of over 250’000. Founded in the 11th century by the Khmer Empire, Battambang is well known for being the leading rice-producing province of the country. For over 500 years, it was the main commercial hub of Siam's Eastern Provinces, though it was always populated by a mix of ethnic Thai, Lao, Chinese and Cambodians. Still today Battambang is the main hub of the Northwest connecting the entire region with Phnom Penh and Thailand.

Battambang City is situated by the Sangker River, a tranquil, small body of water that winds its way through Battambang Province all the way to the Tonle Sap Lake. As with much of Cambodia, the French Colonial architecture is an attractive bonus of the city. It is home to some of the best-preserved, French colonial architecture in the country.

Although there are also hundreds of ancient Khmer temples scattered throughout the Battambang Province, in Battambang, Lolei Travel focuses its programs more on the local village activities, food production, handicraft, agriculture and old French colonial side. Discover the “Cambodian Way of Life” and visit a local fish paste (Prahoc) factory, learn how to make rice paper and traditional Khmer noodles, and stroll through untouched, traditional communities where you will be greeted with an unforgettable smile! Even a wine tasting is possible in Cambodia’s only winery just outside of Battambang.

Climb Phnom Banon and enjoy the sunset with an unforgettable view over “Cambodia’s Rice Bowl”. Alternatively, take a fun ride on the traditional bamboo train (in Cambodian called ‘'norry’). It’s creatively built by combining a small motorcycle engine, a bamboo platform and 2 axels. The cart rides the railroad rails picking up and dropping off passengers, cargo, animals and motorcycles along the way. When it meets on-coming traffic (i.e. another bamboo train or the weekly cargo service from Phnom Penh), it can be easily disassembled and taken off the rails in a minute or two, allowing the other to pass. Enjoy this unique and beautiful ride through the unspoiled Cambodian country side.