The state of Cambodia’s rail system is in need of improvement.  There is one train service between Phnom Penh and Battamabang a week, and the 280 kilometer trip may take a very long time.  The trains are old and constantly break down.  Although the situation is improving, with 2010 a target for full rehabilitation, as stated by the director of Cambodian Railways, it is still in bad condition and many citizens have taken matters into their own hands.

The norry, also called the bamboo train, is Cambodia’s improvised rail vehicle.  The ‘trains’ are made of bamboo slats with a steel frame.  The platform rests on wheels usually taken from abandoned tanks.  A motorcycle or tractor engine provides the horsepower and a dried grass mat serves as a luxury seat for passengers.  They can reach speeds of up to 40 kilometers an hour.

So, what to do if two norries meet head on?  The operators of these bamboo trains adhere to a simple and sensible code.  The train carrying more passengers gets to continue on.  So, how does the other train make way for the train with the heavier load?  The train operator shuts off the engine and actually disassembles the norry and lifts it off the tracks, usually with assistance from the conductor of the train with the heavier load.  This whole process can be done in less than a minute.  Then, the train heads off and the disassembled train gets built back and goes off to its destination.

Norries have low fares, appear frequently and are relatively fast making them popular despite their basic design, the often broken and warped tracks the norries run on and a lack of organization present in a state rail system.

If you are planning on visiting Battambang, why not take a short excursion on the norry?  It is a mode of transportation favored by many and is a great way for you to experience a part of Cambodian life.  Our Battambang Escape tour is the perfect introduction to Cambodia’ second largest city complete with visits to its main sites, experiences with the local villagers and of course, a ride on the bamboo train.  You can also visit our Cambodia tours page for other memorable journeys into this fascinating country.  Feel free to contact us if you have any questions.

Kratie (pronounced kra-chey) is a small town on the east bank of the Mekong River and capital of the northeastern province of the same name.  Visitors to Kratie will not have to worry about transportation because the town is small enough to be explored by foot.

Kratie may not be one of the big tourist spots in Cambodia, but the town still gets its fair share of visitors.  Many come here to catch a glimpse of the rare and elusive Irrawaddy Dolphin.  The town is also a nice relief from some of the country’s more visited areas, offering an authentic rural stay near the river and a good place to relax to spend a peaceful night or two.

Kratie is a small town with numerous sites to see.   Phnom Sombok is a small temple located on a hill north of town.  A long set of steps lead to a pavilion, where pictures of torture are shown, reminding viewers of the punishment that awaits if one does not lead a virtuous life.  Wat Roka Kandal is a restored pagoda on the riverfront about 2 kilometers from the town center.  It is an ancient Lao style stupa which has been beautifully restored throughout its time.  A more modern pagoda is located nearby, where chanting monks can be heard during dawn and dusk.  About 15 kilometers from town is the Cham basket weaving village.  It is the biggest basket weaving village in Kratie, with over 4000 villagers living here.

Of course, the main attraction of Kratie is the rare and elusive Irrawaddy Dolphin.  Estimates predict less than 60 left in the area.  The recommended place to see them is at Kampi village, about 15 kilometers from town and the best time of day to watch them are in the late afternoon.  Another popular activity in Kratie is to sit down by the riverfront with a cold drink in hand and watch the sun set.

Explore one of Southeast Asia’s most spectacular areas with Exotissimo’s Along the Mekong tour.  Uncover rural villages, discover hidden temples and visit community-based tourism projects as you follow the Mekong River as it slices through the heart of the country.  A stop in Kratie is included on this tour.  You can also see our suggested Cambodia tours page for other recommended trips into this beautiful country or contact us if you have any questions.

Battambang is Cambodia’s second largest city and capital of Battambang Province in Northwest Cambodia.  The main sections of the city are located close to the Sangker River, a small and tranquil body of water that winds its way through the province and empties into the Tonle Sap.  The town feels much different from the capital as Battambang conveys more of a relaxed, laid back atmosphere.

The town is known for its statues depicting animals and divinities.  The most famous statue is of an ancient Khmer King holding a stick.  Legend has it that he threw his staff from Angkor and it landed in Battambang.  In fact, the name Battambang means ‘loss of stick’, which directly refers to the legend.

Any tour of Battambang has to start with Phnom Sampeau.  Sadly, it used to be a killing cave for the Khmer Rouge.  Now, it is a peaceful place, consisting of a few Buddhist caves and a monastery with two stupas on the hilltop.  It is also a great spot for a scenic view of the surrounding area.

Wat Banan is another popular destination on a Battambang tour.  It was built over 1000 years ago and is the best preserved temple of the area.  The stair climbing is pretty steep and impressive, but in the end, the effort is well worth it as the view from the top is excellent.  It is said that Wat Banan is an inspiration to how Angkor Wat would eventually be built.

A trip to Battambang would be incomplete without a ride on the bamboo train (locally called the norry).  It is an interesting trip on a motorized bamboo platform that rests on top of two sets of wheels and runs on the rail tracks.  Locals use these bamboo trains to make up for the infrequent but currently improving train service.

Let Exotissimo’s Battambang Escape take you on a two night experience into authentic rural Cambodian life.  Be at peace with the town’s laid back atmosphere and colonial buildings decorating the town as you walk through fruit plantations to Wat Banan.  Explore the town’s other attractions such as Phnom Sampeau, villages specializing in handicrafts and a ride on the norry.  You can also see our suggested Cambodia tours for other memorable trips into the country or contact us if you have any questions.