4-Day Self-Guided Motorbike from Battambang: Trails, Twisty Roads & the Cardamoms
Route Summary:
Battambang loop
Battambang to Battambang (loop)
Total Distance: Approximately 500–600 km
Duration: 4 Days / 4 Nights
Rider Level: Easy to Moderate (suitable for all riders)
Road Conditions: Mix of paved roads, countryside backroads, and a few light off-road trails (easy dirt when dry)
This 5-day motorbike loop through Cambodia’s less-travelled western regions offers a captivating mix of mountain trails, rural villages, colonial relics, and remote national parks. Designed for self-guided riders of all levels, the route highlights the lush green landscapes of Samlout, the waterfalls of Pailin, the intricate canal systems fed by Kamping Pouy reservoir, the wild beauty of Veal Veng, and the quiet charm of the countryside on the return to Battambang.
You’ll pass waterfalls, swinging bridges, and forgotten colonial outposts, all while enjoying some of Cambodia’s most scenic and untouched landscapes. Expect friendly encounters, fresh air, and a sense of timelessness that defines the region.
Add an extra day or two if you want to explore hidden waterfalls or take longer rest stops in these remote areas.
Book this tour with Mototom or rent a motorbike by contacting us.
Day 1: Ancient Temples, Countryside Roads, Bat Cave’s Sunset
Route: Battambang → Banan → Kamping Pouy → Phnom Sampov
Distance: ~95–120 km
Begin your journey in Battambang and head west into the fertile countryside, where rice paddies stretch to the horizon, banana trees line the roads, and traditional wooden homes dot the landscape. Your first stop is Banan Temple, a small Angkorian-era ruin perched on a hilltop. After climbing the staircase, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views and ancient stone towers reminiscent of a miniature Angkor Wat. Descend into the shade below to enjoy a fresh coconut or a cold drink from local vendors.
Continue your loop through the Phnom Sampov area, making your way to Kamping Pouy Reservoir—a peaceful man-made lake framed by low mountains and dotted with tiny local farms. It’s an ideal place to stretch your legs, take photos, or have a casual chat with fishermen and snack vendors.
Backtrack toward Phnom Sampov, a striking limestone hill that looms over the plains. The site holds historical weight due to its killing caves, but also offers sweeping views, a hilltop pagoda, curious monkeys, and a nightly spectacle: the bat cave exodus. Arrive by late afternoon to explore the site, then settle in with a drink to watch thousands of bats stream from the cave just after sunset (typically 6–7 PM, depending on light and temperature).
Stay overnight at a local guesthouse or the nearby Batcave Family Homestay for an authentic and peaceful rural experience.
Day 2: Through Pailin Gemstones to Osoam Quietness
Route: Samlout → Pailin → Osoam
Distance: ~170 km (mixed surface roads)
Triumph Tiger in Pailin
Leave the gentle plains behind and venture deeper into Cambodia’s wild west. From Phnom Sampov, ride northwest through countryside trails toward Pailin, passing rice fields, cashew plantations, and forested hills rising in the distance. By routing through the Kamping Pouy lake area, you’ll avoid the monotonous National Road 57 and instead enjoy lesser-used backroads that offer a more immersive rural experience. These quiet tracks include light dirt sections that add just enough adventure to keep the ride fun without being too technical.
The small town of Pailin sits in the Cardamom foothills, surrounded by dense greenery and rolling hills. Once famous for its gem mining, it now offers a slower pace of life and a strong local identity. Take time to visit the hilltop pagoda overlooking the town or detour to the Blue Mountain Elephant Head Waterfall, a beautiful and refreshing stop.
Continue the ride into higher elevation as you approach Osoam, climbing into the heart of the Cardamoms. The scenery shifts to thicker forests, scattered farms, and remote settlements. The ride through Samlout Chas is especially scenic, with winding paths and plenty of green views.
Your day ends in the quiet mountain village of Osoam, where cool air and peaceful surroundings offer a welcome contrast to the heat of the lowlands. Several local guesthouses provide simple accommodation and a chance to connect with life in one of Cambodia’s most secluded corners.
Day 3: Twisty Roads down to Tonle Sap Altitude
Route: Osoam → Pramaoy → Phnom 1500 hill → Pursat
Distance: ~150 km (rural and mountain roads)
Leaving Osoam, head east toward Pramaoy, a small town nestled in the Cardamoms. From there, continue climbing Phnom 1500, where a series of smooth twisties offer fun riding and scenic views. Stop for a light lunch or coffee at one of the roadside restaurants tucked into the curves of Road 55.
After the climb, turn around and ride back down the same road. The descent winds through villages, farmland, and forest, gradually flattening out as you approach the lowlands. This part of the ride offers a beautiful contrast as you shift from mountainous jungle terrain to the expansive countryside typical of central Cambodia.
Arrive in Pursat, a quiet riverside town with a friendly local atmosphere. Stay in a local homestay or guesthouse, and ask around for suggestions on things to visit nearby. In the evening, head downtown to enjoy the riverfront, relax at a bungalow-style restaurant and beer garden, or explore a bit of the local nightlife.
Day 4: Rural Trip Back to Battambang
Route: Pursat → Koas Krala → Moung Russei → Battambang
Distance: ~140 km (Road 5 and trails or countryside roads)
Giant buddha in Phnum Thippadei
Start the day with a relaxed ride north toward Moung Russei, a small town where you can stop at the local market for a drink or snack with the locals. From there, head off the main road and follow backland canal trails as you make your way into Koas Krala’s rural backyard. These tracks offer a real sense of isolation and countryside charm but can become tricky or muddy after rain. If conditions aren't favorable, it’s better to stay on the paved roads for an easier ride.
Once in Koas Krala, take a short detour to visit Phnom Thippadei, a hilltop offering wide views and home to a striking golden seated Buddha statue.
From there, continue through farmland and long straight canals back toward Banan, where you can stop to check out the bamboo train or relax by the peaceful lakes behind the quarry hills.
Roll back into Battambang in the late afternoon. After four days on the road, unwind with a well-earned meal and a drink in one of the town’s riverside bars or colonial cafés, soaking in the relaxed charm that makes Battambang such a special place to end the journey.
If you have some time left, use it to enjoy Battambang’s rich culture and laid-back charm. Options include:
Visiting Phare Ponleu Selpak, Cambodia’s most famous circus and arts school (evening shows, check their schedule)
Touring old colonial streets and temples such as Wat Ek Phnom and Wat Samraong Knong
Riding to Baset Temple and rural pagodas nearby for a last taste of countryside serenity
This 5-day Battambang loop is a compact adventure with big rewards: forest roads, hill climbs, border trails, and some of the friendliest people in Cambodia. With light traffic, flexible routes, and rich local encounters, it’s ideal for riders seeking a mix of comfort and wilderness.
Want to ride this yourself? Contact Mototom to rent a motorbike or request a custom self-guided GPS track. Prefer company? Ask about fully guided tours with experienced local riders.
