How to get from Sihanoukville 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.
What are the 4 ways to travel from Sihanoukville to Battambang?
There are 4 ways to travel the 490 kilometre (304 miles) distance from Sihanoukville to Battambang. You can choose between the bus, shared minivan, taxi and flight. The journey takes 5 hours 5 minutes to 14 hours and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at 86,000 KHR ($21.50).
Where to stay in Battambang?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Battambang at the bottom of this page.
Sihanoukville to Battambang by Bus
The bus is an affordable way to travel to Battambang from Sihanoukville, with tickets starting from 86,000 KHR ($21.50). Just keep in mind that spending 8 hours to 11 hours 30 minutes or more on a bus can feel long.
If you haven’t explored Phnom Penh yet, consider making a stop. There, you can rest, grab a bite, or check out some of the city’s highlights. See our pages on Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh and Phnom Penh to Battambang for more details.
Still want to travel directly from Sihanoukville to Battambang? See your options below:
Bus schedule from Sihanoukville to Battambang
- 24/7 customer support
- 24/7 customer support
Each company operates from its own office rather than a central station, so double-check the departure and arrival location when booking.
Sihanoukville to Battambang by Shared Minivan
A minivan ride from Sihanoukville to Battambang costs around 96,000 KHR ($24). The minivan journey takes about 10 to 14 hours, depending on traffic.
There are three minivan companies operating this route: Go Ho Travel, Koh Rong Island Transport and Sovan Rithy Express.
Minivans are a good alternative to buses because they usually travel faster, making fewer stops along the way. That said, for a journey this long, the limited legroom and tighter seating can start to feel cramped.
Minivan schedule from Sihanoukville to Battambang
In Cambodia, transport companies often adjust the vehicle type based on the number of passengers. You might book a minivan but end up in a bus, or the other way around, depending on demand.
Sihanoukville to Battambang by Flight
There is no direct flight from Sihanoukville to Battambang because Battambang has no airport.
Instead, you can fly from Sihanoukville to Siem Reap, then continue to Battambang by minivan or taxi. Flying helps cut down a large part of the overland travel, and the whole journey takes about 5 hours 5 minutes to 5 hours 35 minutes.
Expect to pay around 421,000 KHR ($105) for the fares.
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
Step 1: Sihanoukville city centre to Sihanoukville Airport
Sihanoukville International Airport (KOS) is located about 25 km from the city centre. There’s no public transport available, so you have two main options for getting to the airport: a private air-conditioned transfer or an open-air tuk-tuk.
If you prefer a more comfortable and faster ride, go for a private transfer. You can take a regular taxi, book a ride through Grab or PassApp, or reserve a car online via BookAway. Prices range from 100,000 KHR ($25) to 120,000 KHR ($30).
Tuk-tuks are a cheaper alternative and offer a more local experience. Fares usually range between 48,000 KHR ($12) and 80,000 KHR ($20). You can find them on the street, but booking through the Grab app often gives you a better rate.
Step 2: Flight from Sihanoukville to Siem Reap
Fares for the flight from Sihanoukville to Siem Reap start from 233,000 KHR ($58), and the journey takes around 1 hour.
Air Cambodia runs two direct flights a day, both in the afternoon.
Step 3: Siem Reap Airport to Battambang
The most convenient way to travelfrom Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI) to Battambang is by getting a taxi at the airport. Rates start from 281,000 KHR ($70), and the journey takes almost 4 hours.
You might find cheaper private transfer options if you book online through BookAway. Prices start at 180,000 KHR ($45), and you can choose an SUV for more space and comfort compared to the standard sedan taxis at the airport.
A cheaper alternative is to take a combined taxi and bus. First, take a taxi from Siem Reap Airport to the city centre. The airport is around 45 km from town, and fares on Grab start from 100,000 KHR ($25). From there, you can catch a bus to Battambang for about 40,000 KHR ($10).
See our page about Siem Reap Int’l Airport for more info.
Sihanoukville to Battambang by Taxi
A private transfer from Sihanoukville to Battambang is the most convenient option. The journey takes 6 hours 35 minutes to 8 hours, and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation — no need to worry about extra transfers.
Prices for private transfer start at 718,000 KHR ($180) for a 4-seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about 179,000 KHR ($45) each.
Because it’s a long ride to Battambang, the journey can feel tiring. One advantage of a taxi is that you can ask the driver to make a few short stops along the way to stretch your legs. For better comfort, we recommend going for an SUV. You’ll get more space and a smoother ride, which really helps on longer journeys.
Best places to stay in Battambang
The city of Battambang is fairly spread out, however, you’ll find the majority of accommodations are located centrally, near the Sangkae River.
The downtown area is less than 5km from the airport so taking public transportation or hopping in a taxi will be an easy & quick trip to your hotel. The bus terminal is located in the downtown area and will likely be within walking distance of your hotel, or just a short taxi ride away.
When looking for a great place to stay in Battambang, we recommend staying in one of these accommodations:
Pomme Hostel - Budget Friendly
Pomme Hostel, Bar & Restaurant is located centrally in the heart of Battambang. Just 200 m from Psar Nat, Riverside Night Market, and Battambang Museum, it’s a great place to stay to see the local sights.
While breakfast is not included with your stay, it’s only an extra $2 for a full English breakfast or a ‘build-your-own’ breakfast. The restaurant offers an array of local, Asian, and international meals for lunch and dinner as well. The hotel staff, who are known to be extremely welcoming and friendly, can also arrange local tours for you.
- Perfect location
- Build-your-own breakfast available
- Onsite restaurant
- Amazing staff
Private rooms start at $11 per night.
Family Batcave Homestay - Budget Friendly
Located amongst the rice fields and surrounded by beauty, this homestay is 15km from the city centre of Battambang. If this sounds a bit far, don’t worry, the homestay offers free bicycle rentals.
The hotel has a stunning garden and a relaxing terrace to soak in the sights. The owners and staff will treat you like family, offering a complimentary and delicious vegetarian breakfast every morning. The private bamboo bungalows are small slices of paradise.
- Surrounded by rice fields
- Free bicycles
- Amazing staff
- Complimentary vegetarian breakfast
Private bungalows start at $20 per night.
Muni Residence and Spa - Mid Range
Muni Residence is one of the most popular places to stay in Battambang. That’s mostly down to its almost perfect rating and incredible hosts, Liy and his family. They make you feel like you’re part of the family instantly, helping you with anything you need.
The sweet treats that they surprise guests with are such a memorable and considerate touch. The rooms are nicely designed and spacious, whilst the beds are super comfortable.
- Very popular
- Amazing host
- Free sweet treats
- Spacious and nice rooms
Private rooms start from $27 per night.
Cambana La Rivière Hotel - Treating Yourself
Situated in the centre of Battambang, Cambana La Rivière Hotel feels like an oasis where you can escape the noise. The pool area with comfy sun loungers and packed with plants is the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring.
Or you can chill out and order room service to your private balcony. The rooms are luxurious, spacious and clean. You won’t want to leave your huge comfortable bed, but hopefully, the complimentary breakfast is enough to entice you.
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Private balcony
- Luxurious rooms
- Delicious free breakfast
Deluxe suites start from $60 per night.
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Sihanoukville to Battambang. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
Frequently Asked Questions about Sihanoukville to Battambang
What is the distance from Sihanoukville to Battambang?
The distance from Sihanoukville to Battambang is 490 kilometre (304 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Sihanoukville to Battambang?
The fastest way to get from Sihanoukville to Battambang is by flight and takes 5 hours 5 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Sihanoukville to Battambang?
The cheapest way to get from Sihanoukville to Battambang is by bus with ticket costs starting from 86,000 KHR ($21.50).
Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
