Siem Reap - Battambang - Phnom Penh

After transferring to Battambang, you will arrive at your hotel in the late afternoon. You will have lunch at the hotel (at your own expense). You can use the hotel facilities and rest until you are ready to explore the best of Battamang. You will ride the bamboo train as the sun sets. Battambang is a place where the arts and the architecture are as amazing as the usual attractions.

Tonight you are recommended to visit Lotus Bar and Gallery or Bric a Brac for a glass of wine following by the dinner at Jaan Bai restaurant (own account). The menu was created by a Michelin Star chef who resides in Bangkok, Thailand.

Cycle around the countryside of Battambang and visit Cambodian families who make traditional products (like rice paper, dried bananas, bamboo sticky rice, and rice wine) in the same way as their ancestors. You will see for yourself how rural communities live, which form over 70% of Cambodia’s population. Lunch is in the town (on your own). See the 11th century Angkorian temple of Prasat Phnom Banan, which stands on a hill with the same name. 

After climbing the 350+ steps you are treated to a peaceful setting with superb views across the surrounding countryside.

End of the day with a visit to Phnom Sampeau, which is a massive limestone outcrop that is dissected by a number of caves of which some are more accessible than others. Some caves contain unexpected reminders of Cambodia’s turbulent history. As the night falls, thousands of bats fly out of the caves in the hillside to hunt for food and come back at sunrise. This is a natural spectacle that the visitor should not miss.

Say goodbye to Battambang and embark on a 3-hour drive southeast to the lesser-visited Kampong Chhnang, renowned for its exquisite clay pottery. The name of the province itself, Kampong Chhnang, translates to "Port of Pottery" in Khmer, reflecting the local affinity for crafting pots, vases, and various ceramics during the off-harvest seasons.

Delve into the traditional pottery-making process within the community and witness the collection of sugar from palm trees. Your guide can facilitate translations if you wish to gain insights into village life.

Next, head to Kampong Luong, a village known for its skilled silversmiths who craft intricate and stylish silver items. Upon arrival at your hotel, check in and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.