Battambang Bamboo Train: Is It Still Worth Visiting? 2025

Let’s check out all you need to know about the popular Battambang Bamboo Train. From how to get there, the ticket situation, what to expect, and more (though be aware it’s changed quite a lot over the years) ….

If you’re backpacking Cambodia, you’ve no doubt heard of the Bamboo train in Battambang. I mean, seriously, I came across this city and added it to my itinerary, literally just to do it.

My first visit was in 2017, before the second train popped up on the scene, and the original was refurbished. It was definitely a super authentic experience where danger meets local innovation.

But now that times have changed, is it still worth visiting?

Seriously, it’s kind of crazy when you first see those trains. Just a simple bamboo platform on wheels and motor at the back. It’s just such an exhilarating ride, which you may question whether to tell your parents about.

While in Cambodia, I’ve visited Battambang twice, and like I said, mainly for the Bamboo Train (yes, I’m a big fan). However, in 2020, a 2nd ‘bamboo train’ was built, and reviews aren’t great at all.

🚗 How I Book Cheap Transport In Cambodia: 12Go Asia

The History Of The Bamboo Train

Basically, the Bamboo Train hasn’t always been a tourist attraction. It started up after the Khmer Rouge absolutely destroyed Cambodia, from its citizens and children, to the infrastructure, including the railway system.

The tracks were left broken and essentially unusable. Across the country, there were these pathways that connected all those towns and villages, but they were just sitting there doing nothing.

That’s when the villagers decided to take leftover truck parts from the war and make them fit the width of the railroad.

They then built bamboo platforms that sat on top and attached a motor from cars, boats, or motorbikes to get it moving.

At 40 kilometers per hour, it may not sound fast, but when there’s no walls, doors, or seatbelts, it certainly is a thrill.

Since then, it’s for sure gained popularity as a ‘must do’, and nowadays, there’s a steady stream of tourists helping out the local economy.

In the meantime, why are there two trains? Well, it seems a private company actually started the new train.

Now, theres been talks for many years about the government fixing up the tracks and getting the trains running again.

This has actually happened in a few parts of the country, such as Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville. Obviously, if this does happen, the original bamboo train will have to stop. Seriously, no one wants to get squashed by a legit train.

However, until that happens, the OG train is still up and running for those keen to check out the countryside while backpacking Cambodia.

Top tip: Some locals, drivers, and articles online, say the old bamboo train is no longer running. Please be aware this is a scam!

The New Bamboo Train

So, let’s get into the new, awkward kid on the block.

As I said previously, a private company set this up. This means they had quite a bit of money, and as a result, it has come up a lot more Disneyland-ish than most tourists expect.

As a result, you’ll find many negative reviews of the Bamboo Train actually refer to the new train rather than the old one.

Lonely Planet describes it as a “kiddies’ rollercoaster ride”, if that gives you any idea what to expect. Surprisingly, it’s quite a popular choice for locals and young families.

The one good thing is you don’t get hassled by young children selling drinks and souvenirs at the other end.

Funnily enough, when you arrive, you’ll find an absolutely ridiculously sized car park, ready and waiting to accommodate those tour buses en masse.

The train ride is super modern, with fancy looking concrete train tracks and cared for gardens.

This is certainly not the authentic countryside experience most travelers come here for.

The Old Bamboo Train In Battambang

The old train is the main one and what most travelers here expect to do. It’s a super unique experience, and unlike anything else I’ve ever done.

However, during my first visit in 2017, this was a true, be dammed health and safety experience! Literally clinging on for our lives!

Zooming over a rickety bamboo bridge, banging across warped tracks, and ducking to avoid overhanging branches. A full on Cambodian rollercoaster ride.

I was excited for my next visit quite a few years later, but it had since been refurbished and modernized.

The jungle landscape was gone, a concrete bridge replaced the bamboo one, and the whole operation was a lot more professionally run.

The improved old bamboo train has both good and bad things, but nevertheless, it is a much more worthwhile experience than the ‘new’ Disneyland-ish train.

How To Get There From The City Center

The, best, aka OG Bamboo Train, is a 45 minute – 1 hour walk outside of the main center. Of course, instead of waking you could easily take a tuk-tuk for just a few dollars.

We decided to walk there in the morning and then after the ride get a tuk-tuk back.

It was a good plan to leave early to beat the crazy heat. We also stopped along the way at a delicious little breakfast spot, which seriously was the best ever idea.

To be honest it’s a surprisingly nice walk, especially as you head out of the city and to the more local side.

This map marks the exact location:

The Ticket Price For The Bamboo Train

On arrival, you’ll be directed to buy a ticket, which costs $5.00 per person.

Then, you’ll meet your driver, who will take you to the crazy bamboo ‘vehicle’ you’ll use for the ride! Prepare yourself and get comfortable.

Now, be aware it can get pretty busy. If this is the case there’s the chance they they’ll team you up with another group to share a cart with.

🚗 How I Book Cheap Transport In Cambodia: 12Go Asia

My Experience Onboard The Bamboo Train

After a pretty damn sweaty walk through the small streets of rural Battambang, we finally arrive at a small dirt road where the Bamboo Train office is located.

It was a very chill, very Cambodian experience rolling up. Theres no real instructions, but of course, a nice tuk-tuk driver happily points us in the right direction.

After purchasing our tickets, we jump on board with a couple others and have the obligatory photo.

Soon enough, the driver starts the engine, and as we jut forward, the noise from the metal wheels on the tracks begins.

On the plus side, it’s a hell of a lot more comfortable thanks to a few cushion we were given at the start.

The downside is a lot of jungle has been cut down for new farmland. Since its burning season, the smoke fulls the air as the sun begins to set.

Luckily, because we were put in a large group, we didn’t have to give way to any other carriages. Instead, they had to stop, pull theirs apart, and let us continue

After about 20 minutes, we arrive at the so-called end of the line, a small section of huts and shops set up. It’s hard to see the local children here selling souvenirs rather than being in school.

This is a pretty standard practice in Cambodia and many other countries around the world. The best thing is to use your own discretion when deciding whether to purchase something to support their families.

After a few photos and a much needed cold drink, it’s time to jump on for the second part of our journey back to the station.

So the thing is, the train doesn’t do a loop back to the station. Instead you’ll need to help your driver flip the cart so you can head back the same way.

What To Pack

So seriously you don’t need to bring too much.

But here are a few of my essentials:

Camera: Of course you’ll need some pics, so don’t forget your camera! A fast shutter speed will stop your pics being blurry.

Sunblock and hat: There’s zero shade on the bamboo train, so prepare to be in the sun. Bring your hat and some decent sunblock.

Sunglasses: 40 kilometers per hour might not seem that fast, but to stop your eyes watering def wear sunglasses.

🚗 How I Book Cheap Transport In Cambodia: 12Go Asia

Other Things To Do In Battambang

So, while the Bamboo Train may’ve put Battambang on your radar, theres plenty other things to do here as well!

Central Market: For something different, wander around the Central Market, aka Phsar Nath. This is a super local spot and makes for an interesting but squeamish experience. It’s lively (well, not all the animals) and a bit chaotic, but in the best way.

Free Walking Tour: I love a good free walking tour, and you’ll find one leaving from the Central Market at 4 p.m. (thankfully, once the hottest part of the day is over).

Kampon Pil Pagoda: If you’ve got a lil extra time, Kampon Pil Pagoda is worth a visit. The buildings are beautiful, and the grounds are perfect for a lazy stroll.

Killing Cave: If you’re keen to learn about Battambang, visit the Killing Cave. The history’s dark, but super interesting. Stick around till sunset for monkeys hanging out and a crazy swarms of bats.

Bat Cave: If you’re keen on bats then visit Phnom Sampeau Mountain. Many tuk-tuk drivers know about it and will be more than happy to take you there. The highlight is the crazy number of bats that leave when the sun starts to set.

Where Should You Stay In Battambang?

If I am honest, I didn’t fall in love with Battambang or the accommodation. We stayed in a crazy cheap guesthouse with just a fan to cool us down which didn’t do its one job.

However, the main thing was the crazy number of small beetles seemingly appearing out of nowhere. We ended up covered in them, and it wasn’t a fun time.

Instead, if you are looking for a good sleep at a great hostel, def check out The Place Hostel & Rooftop Bar, which has a super social scene.

They also run their own tours, which is a massive bonus and the perfect way to meet other travelers. This is something I always look for when traveling solo as it’s a chill way to meet other backpackers.

The Place Hostel An upscale and modern hostel. Enjoy this flashpacker accommodation, from $8.00 per night. BOOK NOW	Ganesha Hostel Budget-friendly accommodation with dorm rooms starting from $5.00 per night. BOOK NOW
Moloppor Villa Beautiful private rooms from $50.00 per night and an incredible pool. BOOK NOW	Cambana La Riviere Hotel A boutique hotel for those who enjoy a luxe life. Rooms start from $100.00 per night. BOOK NOW

Wrap Up: Should You Visit The Battambang Bamboo Train

No doubt, the Bamboo Train is a must when you’re in Battambang. Showing off the innovation of the locals, it gives travelers a different experience, unique to this part of Southeast Asia.

It’s super easy to get to, and crazy affordable. You literally have no excuse, especially if you’re already in Battambang.

Just jump on, hold on, and make sure to grab a pillow for some extra cushioning.