The Bamboo Train, locally known as the Norry, is one of Battambang's most unusual and memorable experiences.
Instead of a conventional train, you sit on a simple flat bamboo platform mounted on two railway axles and powered by a small motor. The train travels through Cambodia's countryside, passing rice fields, palm trees and rural villages.
Today, the Bamboo Train is primarily a tourist attraction, but the Norry also represents an interesting chapter of Cambodia's railway and rural transportation history. Cambodia's Ministry of Tourism continues to list the Bamboo Train among Battambang's attractions.
Bamboo Train at a Glance
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Khmer name | ααΌααΈ (Norry) |
| Common name | Bamboo Train |
| Location | Battambang Province |
| Area | O'Dambong / Battambang countryside |
| Experience | Ride on a bamboo platform along railway tracks |
| Track | About 4 km tourist track |
| Current listed price | Around US$5 per person |
| Opening | Approximately 7:30 AMβ5:30 PM |
| Recommended time | Morning or late afternoon |
| Duration | Around 30β60 minutes including the ride and stop |
| Best for | Families, couples, photographers and first-time visitors |
| Recommended combination | Bamboo Train + Phnom Banan + Phnom Sampeou |
Opening hours and prices can change, so confirm locally before visiting. The 2026 Battambang tourism booklet currently lists a US$5 price and daily opening from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
What Is the Bamboo Train?
The Norry is essentially a flat bamboo platform mounted on railway wheels and powered by a small motor.
The design was practical rather than luxurious. In the past, similar platforms were used to transport people, rice, livestock and other goods along Cambodia's railway network. Today, the experience has become a tourist attraction and a way to experience Battambang's countryside.
The ride is deliberately simple:
Bamboo platform β small motor β railway track β countryside
And that simplicity is part of the attraction.
What Is the Bamboo Train Like?
Don't expect a modern train.
There are no comfortable seats, air conditioning or windows. Instead, you sit on a thin mat on a low bamboo platform while the motor pushes the Norry along the track.
The experience can be:
- π Bumpy
- πΎ Scenic
- π¨ Windy
- πΈ Photogenic
- π Fun and slightly adventurous
The countryside is the main attraction. Depending on the season, you may see rice fields, palm trees, farmers, cattle and small rural settlements along the route.
Some recent guides describe speeds of roughly 40β50 km/h, although the actual pace can vary.
Where Is the Bamboo Train?
The Bamboo Train experience is located outside central Battambang in the O'Dambong area.
The location and route have changed over the years because Cambodia's railway network has been rehabilitated for conventional trains.
This is important when planning your visit: the famous old Bamboo Train experience that many older travel articles describe is not exactly the same as today's tourist operation.
The modern tourist experience uses a dedicated section of track rather than relying on the main railway service. Current tourism material describes the tourist track as approximately 4 km long.
Good to Know
- Typical visit length:Β AroundΒ 1β2 hours, including the return journey and a brief turnaround stop.Β
- Getting there:Β The attraction is roughlyΒ 15β20 minutes by tuk-tukΒ from central Battambang.Β
- Nearby attractions:Β Many visitors combine the bamboo train with stops atΒ Phnom SampovΒ for the bat cave and historical sites, orΒ Wat BananΒ as part of a half-day or full-day countryside tour.Β
- Choosing the attraction:Β Travel guides commonly distinguish this original railway-based experience from a newer bamboo train attraction elsewhere in the province, with many recommending the original route for its historical character.
How Much Does the Bamboo Train Cost?
The current 2026 Battambang tourism booklet lists:
US$5 per person
However, prices can vary between operators and arrangements, so it's sensible to confirm the price before boarding.
You should also budget separately for transportation from Battambang town if you are not joining a tour.
Estimated budget
| Expense | Approximate cost |
| Bamboo Train | US$5 |
| Tuk-tuk/transport from town | Varies |
| Drinks/snacks | US$1β5 |
| Total basic visit | Around US$10β20 |
How Long Does the Ride Take?
The actual ride is relatively short.
Allow approximately 30β60 minutes for the overall experience, including boarding, riding and stopping.
Some descriptions of the current route mention a short ride to a stopping point before returning.
If you are visiting Battambang for only one day, this makes the Bamboo Train easy to fit into a larger itinerary.
When Is the Best Time to Ride?
π Morning β Best for cooler weather
Morning is a good choice if you want:
- Cooler temperatures
- Softer sunlight
- Fewer visitors
- Better conditions for photography
βοΈ Midday
Possible, but Cambodia's heat can make the open-air ride uncomfortable.
Bring:
- Hat
- Sunscreen
- Water
- Sunglasses
π Late afternoon
Late afternoon can produce beautiful countryside light.
However, don't leave it too late because the current listed operating hours extend to around 5:30 PM.
TravelKH recommendation:
π 7:30β9:30 AM for comfort and photography, or 3:00β4:30 PM for warmer golden light.
What Will You See?
The Bamboo Train isn't really about reaching a particular destination.
The journey itself is the attraction.
πΎ Rice fields
Battambang is one of Cambodia's major agricultural areas, and the train gives visitors a glimpse of the countryside beyond the city.
π΄ Sugar palms
Cambodia's iconic sugar palms are often visible around rural Battambang.
π Rural life
Depending on the season, you may see farmers, cattle, small houses and agricultural activity beside the track.
π€οΈ Railway landscape
The railway is part of what makes the experience unique. The Norry combines Cambodia's railway history with a very simple local form of transport.
Is the Bamboo Train Still Worth Visiting in 2026?
Yes β but with realistic expectations.
If you're expecting the exact rough-and-ready experience shown in old YouTube videos and travel blogs, you may be surprised.
The Bamboo Train has been relocated and reorganized as Cambodia's conventional railway infrastructure has been restored. The current tourist operation is more organized than the old version.
Nevertheless, it remains one of Battambang's most distinctive attractions.
I'd particularly recommend it if you enjoy:
- Unique transportation
- Rural Cambodia
- Photography
- Family activities
- Short adventures
- Experiences that are different from temple sightseeing
Bamboo Train vs Regular Train
| Bamboo Train | Regular Cambodian Train |
| Small bamboo platform | Conventional railway carriage |
| Tourist experience | Public railway service |
| Short tourist route | Long-distance routes |
| Open air | Enclosed carriage |
| Slow/short experience | Longer journeys |
| Focus on countryside experience | Transportation |
The Bamboo Train should therefore be treated as an attraction, rather than a practical way to travel between Cambodian cities.
How to Get There
From Battambang town, the easiest options are:
πΊ Tuk-tuk
Probably the most convenient option for visitors.
Tell your driver:
"Bamboo Train" or "Norry."
It's also worth showing the location on your phone because there have been different Bamboo Train locations over the years.
π΅ Motorbike
Good for independent travelers who are comfortable riding outside the city.
π Private car
Convenient if you're combining the Bamboo Train with several attractions outside Battambang.
For TravelKH visitors, a private car/tuk-tuk day tour makes more sense if you plan to combine it with Phnom Banan and Phnom Sampeou.
Can You Combine the Bamboo Train With Other Attractions?
Yes β and this is probably the best way to experience it.
π Bamboo Train + Phnom Banan + Phnom Sampeou
A popular Battambang sightseeing route is:
Battambang β Bamboo Train β Phnom Banan β Phnom Sampeou β Bat Cave
The Bamboo Train and Phnom Banan are particularly easy to combine because both are in the countryside south/southeast of Battambang. Current travel guides also commonly combine the Bamboo Train, Phnom Banan and Phnom Sampeou into a full-day itinerary.
Suggested schedule
| Time | Activity |
| 7:30 AM | Leave Battambang |
| 8:00 AM | Bamboo Train |
| 9:00 AM | Travel toward Phnom Banan |
| 9:30 AM | Phnom Banan |
| 11:00 AM | Lunch |
| 1:00 PM | Countryside / return toward Battambang |
| 3:30 PM | Phnom Sampeou |
| 5:00 PM | Bat Cave viewing |
| Evening | Return to Battambang |
If you want to see the bat emergence at Phnom Sampeou, leave enough time in the afternoon because the bats typically emerge around sunset.
Photography Tips
The Bamboo Train is excellent for photography because the experience itself is visually unusual.
πΈ Best shots
1. Front-facing shot
Sit toward the front and photograph the track disappearing into the countryside.
2. Low-angle shot
A low camera position makes the bamboo platform look more dramatic.
3. Side view
Photograph rice fields, palm trees and villages as they pass.
4. Portrait
Sit on the Norry with the countryside behind you.
5. Detail photography
Look for:
- Bamboo texture
- Wheels
- Motor
- Railway tracks
- Hands holding the platform
- Rural houses
- Rice fields
π₯ Video
The Bamboo Train is particularly good for short-form video.
A simple sequence could be:
Track β boarding β engine starts β countryside β wheels moving β passenger reaction β wide countryside shot
This would work well for a TravelKH destination reel.
Is It Suitable for Children?
Generally, older children who can sit securely and follow instructions should enjoy it.
However, remember that this is an open platform, not a conventional enclosed train.
Parents should:
- Keep children seated
- Avoid standing while moving
- Keep phones and cameras secure
- Follow the operator's instructions
- Keep hands and feet away from the wheels and track
What Should You Bring?
For a comfortable ride:
βοΈ Water
βοΈ Sunscreen
βοΈ Hat
βοΈ Sunglasses
βοΈ Camera/phone
βοΈ Small amount of cash
βοΈ Comfortable clothing
βοΈ Secure bag
Because the platform is open, don't bring loose objects that could easily fall onto the track.
Is the Bamboo Train Safe?
It is a simple tourist ride rather than a modern railway attraction.
Follow the operator's instructions and remain seated while the Norry is moving.
Also remember that the track is an active physical environment. Do not walk onto the rails for photographs when a train is approaching or operate a drone around the railway.
Bamboo Train Etiquette
The ride passes through rural communities, so be respectful.
Do:
- Ask before photographing people closely
- Respect homes and private property
- Keep your belongings secure
- Listen to the operator
- Keep the track clear
Don't:
- Throw rubbish
- Shout at residents
- Enter private land
- Block the railway for photographs
- Stand dangerously close to moving equipment
Is the Bamboo Train Authentic?
This is probably the biggest question travelers have.
The Norry itself has genuine Cambodian railway history, but today's tourist experience should not be confused with the original everyday transport system.
The railway has undergone major rehabilitation, and the tourist Bamboo Train was moved/reorganized as railway operations resumed.
So the best way to describe it is:
A modern tourist experience inspired by a unique piece of Cambodia's railway history.
That is more accurate than calling today's ride exactly the same as the original Bamboo Train.
Bamboo Train: Pros & Cons
| π Pros | π Cons |
| Unique Cambodian experience | Short ride |
| Great countryside views | Open to sun and heat |
| Very photogenic | Can be bumpy |
| Family-friendly | Tourist-oriented |
| Easy to combine with temples | Not a real transportation service |
| Affordable | Experience has changed from the old Norry |
I can go there by myself or I need a guide?
Yes β you can go by yourself. You do not need a guide just to ride the Bamboo Train.
The current 2026 tourism information lists it as a tourist attraction with daily opening hours, and independent travelers can simply travel to the station, buy a ticket, and ride.
Google Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XAqF7cuXeLKPagGZ8 or Search "Bamboo Train Battambang"
π If you go independently
Easiest option: tuk-tuk
- Take a tuk-tuk from Battambang.
- Tell the driver βBamboo Train / Norry.β
- Buy your ticket at the station.
- Ride the train.
- Return to the same area.
- Have the tuk-tuk driver wait for you or arrange a pickup time.
Current sources indicate walk-in tickets are normally available, so advance booking or a guide isn't normally necessary.
π¨βπ« When is a guide useful?
You don't really need one for the Bamboo Train itself.
A guide becomes worthwhile if you're doing a full Battambang sightseeing day, for example:
Bamboo Train β Phnom Banan β countryside β Phnom Sampeou β Killing Caves β Bat Cave
A guide can add historical/contextual information at the temples and Phnom Sampeou, whereas the Bamboo Train is essentially a ride + countryside experience.
β My recommendation
If you're comfortable traveling independently:
Go without a guide for the Bamboo Train.
If you want to explore 3β5 Battambang attractions in one day, hire a tuk-tuk driver for the whole day rather than paying separately for a tour guide. That gives you flexibility and the driver can wait while you visit each site.
For TravelKH, I'd phrase it:
Can I visit the Bamboo Train independently?
Yes. You don't need to join a tour or hire a guide. You can take a tuk-tuk or motorbike to the Bamboo Train station, purchase your ticket locally and enjoy the ride independently. A guide is only recommended if you want historical explanations or are combining the Bamboo Train with several other Battambang attractions.
One thing to watch: there are multiple Bamboo Train references/locations in older online articles, so I would use the current 2026 location (3698+JWH) rather than an old blog's directions. The 2026 Battambang tourism booklet lists this location and a US$5 ticket / 7:30 AMβ5:30 PM schedule
TravelKH Verdict β
β β β β β 4/5
The Bamboo Train remains one of the experiences I'd recommend adding to a Battambang itinerary, particularly for first-time visitors.
Don't come expecting a luxury train or an untouched historical railway experience.
Come for the simple Norry, countryside scenery and a very Cambodian transportation story.
And if you have enough time, combine it with Phnom Banan and Phnom Sampeou for a much stronger Battambang day trip.
π Suggested TravelKH Route
Battambang City β Bamboo Train β Phnom Banan β Countryside Lunch β Phnom Sampeou β Killing Caves β Bat Cave β Battambang
This gives you a combination of:
π Culture + πΎ Countryside + π Khmer Heritage + π¦ Wildlife + π History
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Bamboo Train still operating in 2026?
Yes. Current 2026 tourism information indicates that the tourist Bamboo Train continues to operate.
How much is the Bamboo Train?
The 2026 Battambang tourism booklet lists US$5. Confirm the current price locally because operators can change their rates.
How long is the Bamboo Train track?
Current tourism information describes approximately 4 km of tourist track.
Can I visit without a tour?
Yes. You can arrange transportation from Battambang independently and purchase the ride locally.
Is the Bamboo Train suitable for children?
Yes, for children who can sit securely and follow safety instructions. It is an open platform rather than an enclosed train.
What is the best time to visit?
Morning is best for cooler temperatures. Late afternoon can provide attractive light, but check the day's operating hours.
Is it worth visiting?
Yes, especially if this is your first visit to Battambang. Just understand that the current tourist experience is different from the original Bamboo Train described in older travel articles.
