From Battambang to Phnom Penh (Cambodia): 4 ways to get there
If it looks like we're circling Cambodia It's almost like that. We met a friend in Siem Reap and were going to stay with her in Phnom Penh, but due to her work and our trip to the Mondulkiri Elephant Project, the route had to be adjusted.
So after Battambang, we went to Phnom Penh — and you have some real options for how to do that.
Briefly on the facts.
Distance: about 300 km (186 mi) between Battambang and Phnom Penh.
Travel time: private taxi - about 6 hours; the road by bus - up to 8 hours (it all depends on traffic jams); the train runs more than 9 hours.
The best and most convenient option for most is a minivan.
Why a minivan is a hit
A minivan is the easiest to book, often faster and more convenient than standard buses with their fixed stops. In Phnom Penh, traffic jams are large, so bus schedules often “float” – they rarely arrive earlier than promised. If you’re planning to go straight away (like us: Kampot → Phnom Penh → St. Moran for a visit to the Mondulkiri Elephant Project), try to take the same carrier to both sites, otherwise you’ll have to drag around the city in search of the next office.
Other options
Sleeping bus is an option for those who want to save money and sleep on the road, but keep in mind that it is up to 8 hours and depends on traffic.
Train – the railway loses in speed (over 9 hours), but wins in predictability: trains do not fall into traffic jams. The Royal Railway station in Battambang is conveniently located near the center, and in Phnom Penh the station is within 20 minutes walking distance from the Phnom Penh Night Market – still, for the transportation of suitcases, it is better to take a tuk-tuk (use PassApp to understand the adequate price).
Private transfer / taxi is the fastest, but also the most expensive option (about 6 hours on the road).
Practical advice
In Cambodia, there is no single bus station: each company has its own offices, and they are usually scattered around the city. Keep this in mind when planning transplants.
If you are traveling further around the country, take tickets from one carrier for both sections of the route.
Book a minivan in advance through aggregators (such as 12Go and similar sites) – especially during peak season.
Think of insurance, eSIM and plug adapter – little things that make travel easier.
Keep the contacts of the local guide: a walk around Phnom Penh with a guide (especially if you have limited time) will give a much deeper idea of the city than an independent run through the main points.
In short: if you want to quickly and without unnecessary worries - minivan. We need comfort and speed - a taxi. Love the train atmosphere and predictability. And don’t forget: with a local guide, even a transfer in the big city turns into a small adventure.
You'll be met in Cambodia.private guidesAnd they'll offer you a copy.individual toursTravel agencies of the country of Cambodia, will offer their services and organizetourInteresting excursions for travelers.
Source of information: personalguide
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