Where to bike in Cambodia: our favorite destinations

Cycling in Cambodia is the ideal way to discover the country’s stunning landscapes in an eco-friendly and leisurely manner. As you traverse the Cambodian countryside, you'll experience the local culture and the unique atmosphere found in the heart of rice fields or along the legendary Mekong River. In this article, we present our favorite destinations for cycling in Cambodia. 

Battambang

Located on the banks of the Sangker River, Battambang is the second largest city in Cambodia. Known for its fertile plains, the surrounding countryside is perfect for scenic bike rides. The landscape is idyllic, covered with rice fields, and dotted with authentic villages featuring traditional wooden houses. Starting from the city, head towards Phnom Sampov Hill to explore caves and religious sanctuaries nestled at the summit. The bike ride to the Prasat Banon temple offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Sangker River, rice fields, and surrounding villages. Cycling through the captivating Battambang countryside, you’ll be immersed in the daily life of rural communities. It’s a great opportunity to interact with locals and learn more about their way of life. 

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There are plenty of bike rentals in the city center. The best time to cycle through Battambang’s countryside is from November to April. 

Kampot, capital

Kampot is one of the top cycling destinations in Cambodia. On your bike, take the dirt paths that wind through the surrounding countryside to admire the stunning landscapes of rice fields where towering sugar palms — one of Cambodia’s symbols — stand tall. Renowned worldwide for its pepper, don't miss the opportunity to cycle to the plantations, where local producers will share the secrets behind this Cambodian delicacy. South of Kampot, head towards the island of Trey Koh, home to a community of Cham fishermen and rice farmers. This excursion offers a perfect chance to dive into local life while admiring beautiful pagodas, charming stilt houses, and salt flats. 

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The best time to visit Kampot by bike is from November to May. 

Kratie

Depart from the charming town of Kratie for a bike trip to the Wat Roka Kandal pagoda, one of the oldest in Cambodia. Then, head north to Kampi. From there, leave your bikes behind for a boat excursion to observe the last freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins. Facing Kratie, board a boat to the island of Koh Trong. A road circles the island, making it an ideal spot for a bike ride through rice fields and traditional houses. It’s also a great place to enjoy stunning sunsets over the Mekong River. 

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Kratie is easily accessible by bus from Phnom Penh. The best time to cycle around Kratie is from November to May during the dry season.

Kampong Cham

For pleasant bike rides in Cambodia, consider a stay in Kampong Cham. Located on the right bank of the Mekong River, it’s the perfect place to explore the small roads that follow this legendary river. A highly popular cycling route leads to the island of Koh Paen, accessible via an astonishing 800-meter bamboo bridge, the longest in the world! On the island, you'll discover rural and authentic Cambodia. Don’t forget to visit the rubber plantations in Chup and the Buddhist temple of Wat Nokor. For a magnificent view of the region, continue cycling towards the beautiful hills of Phnom Pros and Phnom Srey. 

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The town is easily reachable by bus from Phnom Penh. The dry season is the best time to cycle around Kampong Cham. 

Koh Dach

Koh Dach, a small almond-shaped island nestled in the Mekong River, is an ideal destination for those wishing to cycle in Cambodia. Known as the "Silk Island," it is famous for its community of weavers who craft silk and cotton garments. It’s a great opportunity to meet the locals and learn about the use of weaving looms. Cycling around Koh Dach, you'll discover magnificent pagodas, some remnants from the colonial era, and timeless Cambodian landscapes.

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The island is located just 15 kilometers from Phnom Penh. The best time to visit Koh Dach is from November to May.

Linda Martinez