Travel guide
Visiting Battambang, Kratie and Mondulkiri
These are Cambodia's slower, rural corners: Battambang's colonial streets and rice fields in the west, and the Mekong dolphins of Kratie and the green hills of Mondulkiri in the east.
Best time to go
November to April is dry and easiest for travel. River dolphins at Kratie are usually easiest to see when the Mekong is lower, in the dry season. Mondulkiri is cooler than the lowlands all year.
What to see
- Battambang's old town and the bamboo train (norry), now run as a short ride for visitors.
- Phnom Sampeau, where huge numbers of bats leave a cave at dusk.
- Irrawaddy dolphins from a small boat near Kratie.
- An ethical elephant sanctuary in Mondulkiri.
Getting there
Battambang is about 3 hours by road from Siem Reap. Kratie is about 4 to 5 hours from Phnom Penh, and Mondulkiri is a further drive into the hills. Our trips include all the driving.
Frequently asked questions
Is Battambang worth adding to a trip?
Yes, if you want to see rural Cambodia. It pairs well with Siem Reap, as on our 4-day trip.
Can I ride the elephants in Mondulkiri?
No. Our trip visits an ethical sanctuary, where you walk with and watch the elephants but don't ride them.