🚂 Battambang Bamboo Train

It’s impossible to visit Battambang without hearing about the famous bamboo train — the norry. This rural means of transport, both ingenious and picturesque, has carried locals and travelers alike through the serene landscapes of the Cambodian countryside. Here’s everything you need to know to enjoy this authentic experience — from its origins to practical tips, including costs and booking options.

🛤️ History of the Bamboo Train in Cambodia

Origins

The norry was born in the 1980s–1990s, during a time when Cambodia was scarred by civil war and poverty.

• The colonial-era railway, built by the French, had fallen into disrepair: rusted rails, rare trains, sometimes none at all.

• Villagers, especially around Battambang, improvised a simple but clever system to move goods and people:

  • a bamboo platform,

  • placed on two salvaged axles,

  • powered by a small boat or motorcycle engine.

This makeshift vehicle was fast, economical, and easy to dismantle. If two trains met head-on, one would simply be lifted off the rails, allowing the other to pass.

Rise and role in local life

In the 1990s–2000s, the norry became the main form of transport in some rural areas, especially near Battambang. It was used to:

• take villagers to market,

• transport rice, wood, or even livestock,

• connect isolated communities.

The bamboo train came to symbolize local ingenuity: with limited resources, Cambodians created a solution perfectly suited to their daily needs.

Tourism revival

By the 2010s, the government began restoring railway lines. Traditional trains returned, and the norry became less essential for locals. But travelers were fascinated by this unique invention. To meet demand, some tracks were preserved for tourism, notably around Battambang and near Wat Banan.

Today, the bamboo train is no longer vital for transportation but has become an emblematic attraction, blending folklore, nostalgia, and quirky discovery.

Heritage

The norry remains a symbol of Cambodian resilience and creativity.

• From a survival tool in times of hardship, it has become a form of living cultural heritage.

• Riding the norry is like reliving a chapter of Cambodia’s recent history, between past struggles and new opportunities through tourism.

🚂 1. What is the Bamboo Train?

The bamboo train, or norry, is as ingenious as it is rudimentary. It’s essentially a lightweight bamboo platform mounted on two axles with metal wheels, powered by a small boat or motorcycle engine. Despite its simplicity, it can reach 40–50 km/h, making it faster than many rural roads, which are often in poor condition.

Originally, there were no stations or schedules — villagers simply waited along the tracks for a norry to pass. It was used to go to market, transport rice or wood, carry livestock, or link remote villages when official trains stopped running.

The system was also collaborative: when two norries met, no argument! One was quickly dismantled and lifted off the rails, then reassembled after the other passed. This practical, cooperative spirit made the journey efficient and friendly.

Today, the norry has lost its vital role due to the return of conventional trains, but it thrives as a tourist experience. Travelers enjoy a unique ride: sitting on a bamboo platform, racing across rice fields and villages, hair blowing in the wind, a smile on their face. It’s at once transport, heritage, and a quirky adventure that immerses you in Cambodian rural life.

📍 2. Where to Experience It?

The bamboo train is closely tied to Battambang, in northwestern Cambodia. This is where norries once circulated daily, linking villages when regular trains no longer ran. Today, it’s the best place to live the authentic experience.

🚉 Battambang, the must-do

On the outskirts of the city, a tourist line has been maintained. A ride takes you through lush rice paddies, traditional Khmer villages, and pastoral scenery — a true immersion into rural Cambodia, far from the bustle of Phnom Penh or Siem Reap.

The most popular route leads to Wat Banan, an ancient Khmer temple perched on a hill, often nicknamed the “Little Angkor Wat.” Along the way, you’ll spot smiling children, water buffalo, and timeless rural scenes.

🎢 The Banon Bamboo Train

A newer, family-friendly version — the Banon Bamboo Train — was built near Wat Banan. The ride is shorter (around 3 km) but more structured, designed as a fun attraction for families and casual visitors.

🌅 An activity for everyone

• Culture lovers will see it as a living piece of Cambodian heritage.

• Thrill seekers will enjoy the speed and open-air ride.

• Families will find it safe, fun, and unique.

In short: if you visit Battambang, you simply can’t leave without experiencing the bamboo train — it’s simple, authentic, and unforgettable.

💰 3. How Much Does It Cost?

Standard fares

• Traditional norry: about 5 USD per person for a round trip.

• Private/group ride: around 10 USD per cart per hour, great for groups.

Banon Bamboo Train (modern version)

• Locals: about 4 USD

• Foreigners: about 7 USD
  Shorter (3 km), designed for families, with a more organized setup.

Solo passenger option

A single traveler may sometimes be charged up to 10 USD.

By duration

Rides typically last 20–30 minutes one way, covering up to 7 km. Prices generally range from 5 to 10 USD depending on route and setup.

🛠️ Practical Tips

• Cash only (riel or USD), pay on site.

• Flexible schedule: departures happen when enough travelers show up.

• Best times: early morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and beautiful light.

• Combined tours: many packages include the bamboo train along with the Bat Cave, Killing Cave, or Wat Banan — from 8 to 20 USD depending on the tour.

📅 4. How to Book / Useful Links

🚉 Book on site

The easiest way to enjoy the bamboo train is simply to go directly to the departure point in Battambang.

• No fixed schedule: departures happen throughout the day depending on demand.

• Cash payment: bring US dollars or Cambodian riels.

• Very flexible: whether you travel solo, as a couple, or in a group, you’ll always find a spot.

👉 This is the most authentic and cheapest option, perfect if you’re already in Battambang.

🚌 Organized tours

For travelers who prefer convenience, there are excursions that include the bamboo train as part of a broader itinerary. These tours often combine:

• A norry ride,

• A visit to the Bat Cave,

• Exploration of the Killing Cave, a memorial site,

• And sometimes even the Wat Banan temple.

👉 Perfect for discovering the main highlights around Battambang in a half-day or full-day tour.

🔗 Useful booking links

• 🚂 Book the Battambang Bamboo Train on GetYourGuide

• 🌍 Full-Day Tour from Siem Reap on Viator

💡 Traveler’s tip

• Short on time? → Choose an organized tour to cover more sights without worrying about logistics.

• Prefer freedom? → Just head to the bamboo train station in Battambang, pay on the spot, and enjoy the ride at your own pace.

🌾 Conclusion

The Battambang Bamboo Train is more than just transport: it’s a window into Cambodian ingenuity, history, and rural life. For just a few dollars, you’ll embark on a rustic, lively, and visually stunning adventure. Whether you go solo, as a couple, or on an organized tour, the norry remains a must-do to truly understand the resilience and creativity of the Cambodian people. An experience you’ll remember for a lifetime.

❓ FAQ – Battambang Bamboo Train and Travel in Cambodia

What is the Battambang Bamboo Train?

The bamboo train, or norry, is a bamboo platform mounted on rails and powered by a small engine. Once essential for transporting villagers and goods, today it’s a must-see attraction during a trip to Cambodia.

Where can you take the bamboo train during a Cambodia trip?

Mostly in Battambang, a charming colonial city in Southeast Asia known for its peaceful countryside. A modernized version also runs near Wat Banan temple, reachable by tuk-tuk.

How much does a bamboo train ride cost?

On average, between 5 and 10 USD depending on ride length. Payment is made in cash on site, like many small activities in Cambodia.

What else is there to see around the bamboo train?

Battambang is surrounded by Buddhist pagodas, Khmer stilt villages, caves, and authentic rural landscapes. Many tours combine the train with the Bat Cave and Wat Banan temple.

How to include the bamboo train in a Cambodia trip?

Most travelers stop in Battambang between Siem Reap (Angkor temples) and Phnom Penh, the capital. You can get there by bus, by boat across the Tonlé Sap, or even via a cruise from Siem Reap.

What is the link between the bamboo train and Khmer history?

The norry appeared after the civil war, when Cambodia’s railway network was destroyed. It’s a legacy of the post–Khmer Rouge era, symbolizing Cambodian resilience and ingenuity.

What is the best season for the bamboo train?

The dry season (Nov–Mar) is best for comfort. The rainy season (May–Oct) brings lush green landscapes but wetter conditions.

Can Battambang and Angkor temples be combined in one trip?

Absolutely. Many Cambodia tours include Battambang as an authentic stop before or after visiting Angkor Wat, the jewel of the Khmer Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

What else to discover in Cambodia beyond Battambang?

The country offers floating villages, beaches in Sihanoukville and Koh Rong, ruins and archaeological vestiges, and landmarks like the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh. History lovers will enjoy the National Museum, while adventurers can trek or book tailor-made tours off the beaten path.

Why include Battambang in a trip to Asia?

Because it shows the authentic Cambodia, away from the crowds. Between pagodas, sunsets over the countryside, and the warm welcome of Cambodian people, Battambang offers an intimate experience few Asian destinations can match.

Can you see elephants in Cambodia?

Unlike Laos or Thailand, Cambodia is not a top elephant destination. However, some responsible sanctuaries exist. The bamboo train is more about Khmer culture and rural life than wildlife.

What accommodations are available near Battambang?

The city offers budget guesthouses, boutique hotels, and a few upscale options. Most provide a friendly atmosphere, ideal for travelers wanting to stay close to locals.

How to enjoy the experience off the beaten path?

Besides the bamboo train, you can cycle along rural trails, explore Buddhist pagodas with resident monks, or join a Khmer cooking class. These activities reveal the authentic Cambodia, away from tourist crowds.

What is the Battambang Bamboo Train?

The bamboo train, or norry, is a bamboo platform on wheels, powered by a small engine. Once used by locals to transport goods and people, today it’s a unique attraction for travellers exploring Cambodia.

Where can you ride the bamboo train?

Mainly in Battambang, in northwest Cambodia. There is also a modern version near Wat Banan temple. Travellers often include it on their way between Siem Reap Province (home of the Temples of Angkor) and Phnom Penh.

How much does it cost?

Rides usually cost between 5 and 10 USD. Payment is in cash. It’s one of the cheapest experiences for those travelling across South East Asia.

What else to see in Battambang?

Battambang is known for its colonial charm, Buddhist pagodas, local art, and countryside villages. Don’t miss the night market, rural guesthouses, and nearby temples.

How does the bamboo train fit into Cambodia’s history?

The norry appeared after the destruction of railways during the Khmer Rouge period. Like the Killing Fields near Phnom Penh, it represents a reminder of Cambodia’s past. While the Killing Fields are a tragic monument, the bamboo train is a symbol of resilience.

Can it be combined with visiting the temples of Angkor?

Yes. Many travellers combine Battambang with Siem Reap, where you can explore the Angkor Wat temple, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, and the Terrace of the Elephants. Together, they form one of the greatest monuments in East-Asia, listed as a World Heritage Site.

Is Buddhism connected to the bamboo train?

While the bamboo train itself is not religious, Cambodia is deeply rooted in Buddhism and Hindu traditions. Around Battambang and Siem Reap, you will find countless Buddha statues, serene courtyards, and apsara carvings symbolising Khmer spirituality.

Can I explore the Mekong River and Tonlé Sap during a Cambodia trip?

Absolutely. Many South East Asian itineraries include boat trips on the Tonlé-Sap lake and cruises along the Mekong River, connecting Cambodia with Laos and Vietnam. The bamboo train can be part of a larger Indochina journey covering Vietnamese, Lao, and Cambodian highlights.

What’s the best way to get around Cambodia?

You can travel by buses, motorbike, tuk-tuk, or private car. Battambang is connected by road with Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. The nearest international airport is in Siem Reap, while Phnom Penh International Airport and Sihanouk International Airport connect Cambodia to other East-Asia destinations.

Are there other cities worth visiting in Cambodia?

Yes. In addition to Battambang, don’t miss Siem Reap (for Angkor temples), Phnom Penh (the capital with the Royal Palace), Sihanoukville (beaches and islands), and Kampot (colonial town near the coast). Each city offers unique monuments, cultural sites, and authentic Khmer charm.

Do I need to prepare anything before riding the bamboo train?

Not really. Just bring cash, sunscreen, and water. If you’re travelling longer in Cambodia, check the nearest embassy for visa rules, and remember that the Cambodian government sometimes updates regulations for travellers crossing from Vietnam or Laos.

Can I combine Cambodia with other countries?

Yes, many travellers in Indochina create itineraries covering Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos. Routes along the Mekong often link Battambang, Phnom Penh, and the Vietnamese city of Ho Chi Minh. This makes the bamboo train a fun stop in a wider South East Asian adventure.