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In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 165 kilometre distance from Battambang to Siem Reap. Whether you prefer the scenic overnight train, a convenient bus+ferry combo, or the fastest flight option — we've got all the details you need.
There are 4 ways to get from Battambang to Siem Reap. You can choose between the shared minivan, bus, ferry, taxi. The most affordable option is by shared minivan, starting from $9. The fastest route is by shared minivan (3h ).
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$9
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3h
$10
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$61
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4h 15m
$40
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A minivan ride from Battambang to Siem Reap costs around . The minivan journey takes about , depending on traffic.
There are companies operating on this route: .
Both companies generally receive good reviews from travellers. Larryta Express tickets are slightly cheaper than bus ticket prices on this route, which is great if you want to save a few dollars on this trip.
The bus is an affordable way to get from Battambang to Siem Reap. Bus fares start from $10, and the journey takes around 3h.
The route mainly follows National Road 5, which is paved and well-maintained. Travelling by bus is usually the fastest public transport option you can take to get to Siem Reap from Battambang.
You can choose from three bus companies operating on this route: Giant Ibis, Airbus and Virak Buntham Express.
Among them, Giant Ibis and Airbus generally receive the best reviews from travellers.
The ferry ride from Battambang to Siem Reap can be crowded, warm, and noisy, with a loud engine running for most of the trip. A ferry ticket costs 4h 15m, and the journey takes 4h 15m. In reality, it often takes 6–7 hours or more, depending on water levels and conditions on the lake.
You really take this ferry for the experience. The route passes floating villages and river communities on Tonle Sap Lake, giving you a rare look at everyday life on the water. The boat also carries local goods like groceries and mail, which makes the journey feel very local. Comfort is basic, with wooden boats, simple seating, and limited personal space.
The ride usually includes a lunch stop at a floating restaurant along the way.
If you are short on time or prefer an easier journey, the bus is the better option. Roads between Battambang and Siem Reap have improved significantly, making bus travel faster and cheaper. The ferry is best if you have time to spare and want to do it once purely for the experience.
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Siem Reap and Angkor Wat come hand in hand with each other. Almost everyone who visits Siem Reap also explores the extensive and remarkable temples of Angkor Wat - the largest religious monument in the world.
Some visitors spend an entire week discovering every corner and carving of the temples, but here's your reminder to explore beyond Angkor Wat. The city also has cute cafes, a nightly circus that will leave you stunned, never-ending markets, and a lively Pub Street. For many, it exceeds expectations.
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Every route is personally traveled and documented by our team, covering Southeast Asia's most popular and off-the-beaten-path connections.
A private transfer from Battambang to Siem Reap is the easiest and most convenient option. The journey takes , and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation — no need to worry about extra transfers.
Prices for private transfer start at for a -seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about each.
Most travelers base themselves near the main beach for easy access to transport, restaurants, and activities.
Popular budget resort with pool, located on Sairee Beach. Walking distance to dive shops and restaurants.
800 THB/night ($24)
Beachfront bungalows with balconies overlooking Sairee Beach. On-site restaurant and dive center.
2,200 THB/night ($66)
Luxury resort with private beach, infinity pool, and spa. Perfect for couples wanting extra comfort.
6,500 THB/night ($195)
Monthly
UPDATES
Routes are reviewed on a regular cycle to catch schedule changes, new operators, and price updates. Every guide shows when it was last verified.
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BY TRAVELERS
Tips and corrections from our community of travelers help keep routes accurate between team visits. Your experience makes this guide better for everyone.
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Ferry Schedule Notice
Ferry schedules can change due to weather, sea conditions, or seasonal adjustments. We recommend confirming departure times directly with the operator, especially during monsoon season.
Carbon Footprint
This 165 km journey produces approximately 15 g CO2 by bus. Taking public transport is one of the lowest-emission ways to travel this route.
Used the Songserm ferry from Koh Samui. Cheaper than Lomprayah but takes a bit longer. Still a perfectly fine crossing. The views approaching Koh Tao are stunning either way.
OOliver S.November 2025Ferry
Train via Surat Thani was our pick. More scenic than Chumphon route and the Lomprayah catamaran from Tapee Pier is very comfortable. Book the special express train for the quickest ride.
The overnight bus with Montanatip was okay but not great. The bus was older and the seats didn't recline much. Ferry portion was fine though. If you're on a tight budget it works.
Took the sleeper train to Chumphon — magical! Woke up to palm trees and transferred to the Lomprayah catamaran. Whole journey felt like an adventure.
Lomprayah bus+ferry combo from Khao San Road was seamless. Departed at 6am, arrived Koh Tao by 3pm. Well organized.
Flew to Koh Samui and took Lomprayah catamaran. More expensive but saved a full day. Worth it if your holiday is short.
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