6 Trending Photography Destinations in India
Feb 21, 2025
Author: Alka
If you look beyond the smiling Buddha faces of Bayon and the towers of Angkor Wat, you might stumble upon a district lost somewhere in the shadows of its more popular neighbor- Battambang, the perfect escape to a world of romance and tranquility. It is the second largest city in Cambodia where you will find the flavour of the country which doesn’t adhere to rules laid down for its tourist-centric trail. This paradise for two exudes charm, serenity, and a romantic allure perfect for honeymooners and creates unforgettable memories for couples. Here’s a glimpse of this romantic retreat steeped in culture and history:
1. Phnom Sampov: A Sunset to Remember
Phnom Sampov is located about 12 kilometers to the west of Battambang city which is approximately 30 minutes by tuk-tuk from Battambang city center. It’s more than simply a mountain; it’s a living witness to Cambodia’s unique cultural tapestry allowing tourists to see both the past and the present. It rises from the rice paddy fields in Banan district’s Phnom Sampov commune which is an experience of its own. There is a village by the mountainside which is quite wonderful with the abundance of coconut and betel nut trees, providing a cool atmosphere. Here you can hear birds chirping while walking with your partner through the hamlet. As you walk up the mountain, a sealed walkway takes you on a voyage of amazement, with about 1030 stairs leading you to the summit, where a spectacular stupa awaits, affording breathtaking panoramic views. There’s also a concrete pathway to stroll up to the summit where a lovely pagoda sits on the mountaintop, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. At dusk, Phnom Sampov becomes a stage for one of nature’s most stunning performances that is worth waiting for as the sun sets, swarms of bats emerge from the mountain’s caves, illuminating the evening sky with their stunning flight.
2. Governor’s Residence: A Step Back in Time
It’s time to see an architectural masterpiece from the French colonial era that transports visitors to a bygone area. The Governor’s Residence or Sala Khaet in Cambodia, is a grand European-style building located near the Provincial Hall in Battambang. The Residence is no longer used as a government building and is open to visitors from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day where entry is free and you will be escorted by an English-speaking attendant to show visitors around the exhibits. This Residence was constructed in 1905 by the last Thai Governor of Battambang, Chhum Aphaiwong but recently a new building has been constructed next door to the Governor Residence’s to house the provincial administration and the carefully preserved Governor’s Residence now functions as a museum. While visiting this place you’ll realize what a superb job the Cambodian authorities have done to maintain the Governor’s Residence, the once-empty rooms of the building have been filled with exhibits of Cambodia culture and history in place of what would have been there when the building was used by the French Governor. Couples can enjoy a stroll through the grounds, marvel at the colonial architecture, and imagine life in a more genteel time.
3.Battambang Provincial Museum
For couples seeking a blend of history, culture, and quiet intimacy, the Battambang Provincial Museum offers a serene and enriching experience that appreciates art, heritage, and meaningful moments together. The museum displays many ancient statues from Cambodia, including carvings, lintels, and lingas from the Angkorian and pre-Angkorian periods. Together you can admire the craftsmanship and discuss the symbolism of love and devotion in Khmer mythology. There are architectural elements from nearby temples, like Wat Ek Phnom and Phnom Banan which you can explore after the museum. The opening hours of the museum are from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. with an entry fee of Rs.80 per person. Keep in mind photography inside the museum is not permitted, however, still you can enjoy close views of the ancient treasures and capture the moment in your heart.
4. The Famous Bamboo Train: An Unforgettable Adventure
The tapestry of romance and adventure is the “Norry”, or Bamboo Train, a delightful and unique experience for adventurous couples which runs 7 kilometers in length to a nearby village and back. It’s a delightful offbeat experience that perfectly complements the adventure. Some locals and tuk-tuk drivers will say the old bamboo train is no longer running but the old one is, in fact, still operating. The train doesn’t do a loop, instead, you go back the way you came. This means you can just simply sit back and relax as you watch the countryside go by. The ride is typically around 30 minutes each way, though this can vary, you travel through picturesque countryside with vast rice fields, small villages, and tranquil landscapes. As the train moves you have plenty of time to enjoy the views and take photos. The cost of a round-trip ride is approximately Rs.415-830 per person, after the ride stop by The Lonely Tree Cafe or Kinyei Cafe for a refreshing drink or light snack allowing you to unwind and reflect on your Bamboo Train adventure.
5. Private Boat Ride on Sangker River
A great way to see some of this market town is to take a boat trip on the Sangker River in the evening. Battambang has traditionally been Cambodia’s “rice bowl” and offers some of Cambodia’s most rural scenery, and a trip on the river at sunset provides an insight into local life along the river. This rover boat excursion offers the perfect setting for the ultimate relaxation experience as you explore through a floating village on the Sangke River. The prices of the ride are as per the schedule as two-hour rides would cost Rs.2,075 per person; for 4 hours it is Rs. 6,098 per person and for 8 hours Rs. 10,908 per person. The length of the Sangke River is about 307 km where you can relax and soak in the peaceful ambiance as you navigate through the meandering river.
6. Wine Tasting at Cambodia’s only Vineyard
You can seize the day by visiting Cambodia’s first and only winery, the Chan Thai Choeung( Banan) Winery, located 14 kilometers outside of town on the banks of the Sangkar River and is open for visits and tasting. Speaking plainly, the wine is not exactly to Western tastes, but does make for a somewhat unusual attraction and is on the road to Phnom Banan. You can taste their ‘Cognac’ while chatting with the entertaining owners which is worth a stop on its own. In Battambang visit the winery and take a stroll through the vineyard while tasting some of the locally produced wines or brandies for free. It is possible to purchase the bottles directly at the Prasat Phnom Banon Winery. You can combine your visit to the winery with a visit to the Temple Wat Banan nearby. Here there is a small vineyard in the garden which is of interest to local tourists with a charge of Rs.166.
CONCLUSION
It’s not always the places, it is the moments that matter the most, exploring these places in Battambang creates as many indelible memories as you can with your partner. Make sure to enjoy a romantic tuk-tuk or cycle ride with your partner here to explore the serene countryside of Battambang- a perfect way to soak in the charm of your honeymoon gateway.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
1. How to Reach?
From Siem Reap or Phnom Penh to Battambang: From the Airport, you can take a private taxi which costs around Rs.4,000-8,000 depending on the route, or you can take a scenic ride via boat to Battambang along Tonle Sap Lake which takes around 6-8 hours.
Route Available: Phnom Penh to Battambang operates 2-3 times per week and costs around Rs.800-1,200 for 10-12 hours.
2. Local Transport
Tuk-tuks are popular and abundant options for an authentic experience of Cambodia.
3. Accommodation
4. Places to Eat
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