S1 E69 | Battambang Bamboo Train, Floating Fishing Village and Local Temples

Good morning from Battambang! Today was our first full day in the city, and instead of taking a scooter, we hired a local tuk-tuk driver, Mr. Webol, to show us around. It turned out to be a day filled with unique experiences—some fun, some frustrating, but all very memorable.

Our first stop was the famous Bamboo Train—probably the most iconic thing to do in Battambang. Locals have turned an old railway line into a tourist ride, where a small bamboo platform with an engine takes you 5–10 kilometers across the tracks. The ride itself was fun and scenic, but the constant pressure to tip and buy things at the halfway village made the experience a little uncomfortable. At $5 per person, it wasn’t the cheapest ride either, but still something unique to try once.

Next, we visited a floating fishing village on the river. What fascinated us was how the community had built their lives entirely on boats. Fish are bred in nets tied beneath their floating homes, ensuring fresh catch every day. This was also our first time learning about Cambodia’s Muslim community—about 20% of the villagers here are Muslim, creating a beautiful blend of Khmer and Islamic cultures. Despite the plastic and pollution, the village felt peaceful and authentic.

Our final stop was a local temple and market, where fruit factories and prayer spaces stood side by side. This wasn’t a tourist-heavy spot—just locals going about their day, offering us a glimpse of real Cambodian life.

It was a day of contrasts—tourist attractions designed for entertainment, and quiet villages living life the way they always have. That’s the magic of Battambang—it lets you experience both sides of Cambodia in one day.