How to get from Siem Reap to Battambang

Why visit Battambang?

Battambang is one of the oldest cities in Cambodia, dating back to the 11th century and bursting with rich history. But don’t worry, Battambang isn’t stuck in the past, it’s a brilliant blend of old-world charm and contemporary culture.

This city offers some incredibly unique experiences like riding a bamboo train, visiting a cave home to thousands of bats that create a stunning display every day at dusk and watching an unforgettable performance at Phare Ponleu Selpak Circus.

There are 4 ways to travel the 165 kilometre (103 miles) distance from Siem Reap to Battambang. You can choose between the bus, shared minivan, taxi and ferry. The journey takes 3 hours to 4 hours 15 minutes and the quickest way is by bus. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by shared minivan with tickets starting at 34,000 KHR ($8.40).

A minivan ride from Siem Reap to Battambang costs around 34,000 KHR ($8.40). The minivan journey takes about 3 hours to 3 hours 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

There are two companies operating on this route: Larryta Express and Go Ho Travel.

Both get good reviews from travellers, but we recommend taking Larryta Express if you want to keep costs down.

The bus is an affordable way to get from Siem Reap to Battambang. Bus fares start from 40,000 KHR ($10), and the journey takes around 3 to 4 hours.

Road conditions between Siem Reap and Battambang are generally good, with most of the route running on paved highways. Buses also run on frequent schedules throughout the day.

You can choose from three bus companies operating on this route: Giant Ibis, Airbus and Virak Buntham Express.

The ferry from Siem Reap to Battambang is mainly taken for the experience, not for speed or comfort. Tickets cost 161,000 KHR ($40), and the journey takes at least 4 hours 15 minutes. In reality, though, it usually takes 6 to 7 hours, sometimes even longer.

The ride gives you a look at everyday life along the river. You pass floating villages, fishing boats, and homes built right on the water, so you can see how people actually live and move around here. Views along the riverbank are not extraordinary, but you get to see parts of Cambodia that most travellers miss.

Keep in mind that ferries on this route do not follow the same safety standards you might expect elsewhere. Boats here are local, wooden ferries with very basic facilities. It can get hot, space is limited, and the engine noise runs throughout the journey.

Even so, the ferry can be a worthwhile experience if you are curious about river life and don’t mind a bit of an adventure. Compared to the bus, it is slower and less comfortable, but far more memorable.

Departure Station

The ferry departs from Chong Kneas Ferry Port in Siem Reap. To get there, you can take a tuk-tuk from the city centre for 40,000 KHR ($10) per person.

You can also buy tickets at the ferry station for cheaper, around 141,000 KHR ($35), but it’s worth being careful. Many travellers report scams in the area, from tuk-tuk drivers to people adding extra charges to ferry tickets.

Also note that even if someone says the ferry operates during the dry season, the journey can be much longer and more difficult. Low water levels may mean transferring between trucks and boats along the way. For a smoother trip, it’s best to travel during the months of August to February.

Ferry options from Siem Reap to Battambang

A private transfer from Siem Reap to Battambang is the easiest and most convenient option. The journey takes 3 hours to 3 hours 30 minutes, and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation — no need to worry about extra transfers.

Prices for private transfer start at 243,000 KHR ($61) for a 3-seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about 81,000 KHR ($20) each.