Bamboo Train-Ou Srolao Village


The Original Bamboo Train – Ou Srolao Village

The Original Bamboo Train (Norry – នរី) is one of Battambang’s most iconic attractions. Located in Ou Srolao village, just 13 km from Battambang city, this unique improvised rail vehicle offers travelers an unforgettable countryside adventure.

What is the Bamboo Train?

The Bamboo Train is a simple but ingenious invention:

  • Bamboo platform set on small wheels
  • Powered by a small motor
  • Runs on Cambodia’s old French colonial-era railway tracks

Originally created during the UNTAC period (1990s), it provided a quick solution for transporting goods and people along the rarely used northern rail line. Tourists later discovered it as a fun and adventurous ride through the countryside, gaining worldwide fame as “Cambodia’s Bamboo Train.”

The Ride Experience

  • Distance: 7 km (one way)
  • Round Trip: Return to the original station after a short stop
  • Stopover: 10–20 minutes at the village to walk around or relax at a local restaurant

Scenery:

  • Endless rice fields
  • Beautiful lotus farms (especially in the rainy season)
  • Peaceful villages along the tracks

The ride gives a unique perspective of rural Cambodia, with vibrant greenery and lotus flowers in bloom. It’s a favorite for photography and cultural immersion.

History & Background

  • French colonial era: Railways built to connect Cambodia
  • Khmer Rouge era: Much of the railway network fell into disrepair
  • UNTAC period (1990s): Locals created bamboo trains as a practical solution
  • 2017: Original tracks closed to rebuild the railway line from Poipet to Phnom Penh

Today, the authentic bamboo train still runs in Ou Srolao village, managed by locals for visitors, while the tourist version operates near Wat Banan (~25 km from the city).

Why Visit?

✔ Ride a piece of history – a unique transport system once vital to rural Cambodia
✔ Countryside charm – rice paddies, lotus ponds, and quiet village life
✔ Cultural meeting – stop at a local village, meet families, and enjoy homemade snacks
✔ Photographer’s delight – capture the simple beauty of Battambang’s rural life

Practical Info

Tip: Combine with countryside or temple tours for a full-day experience
Location: Ou Srolao Village, 13 km from Battambang
Ride Length: About 45 minutes (round trip with village stop)
Best Time: Morning or late afternoon for cooler weather

Easy & Affordable Tuk-Tuk Trips from Battambang

Enjoy a comfortable and flexible trip to Battambang’s top attractions with easy return to the city.
Visit one destination at a time, such as Ou Srolao Bamboo Train, and relax knowing your transport is arranged.

PRICE

Single Destination Trip (Round Trip)
City → Ou Srolao Bamboo Train → return to Battambang city center

• Transportation by tuk-tuk (round trip)
• Price: USD 10 per tuk-tuk
• Capacity: 3–4 passengers per tuk-tuk, depending on passenger size (larger passengers may reduce capacity)

FAQ

Q: Can I book a trip to only one attraction?
A: Yes. You can book a trip to a single destination, visit the site, and return to the city afterward.

Q: How much does a tuk-tuk trip cost?
A: The round-trip price is USD 10 per tuk-tuk.

Q: How many people can one tuk-tuk carry?
A: One tuk-tuk can accommodate 3 to 4 passengers, depending on passenger size. Larger or heavier passengers may reduce the number of passengers.

Q: Is the price per person or per vehicle?
A: The price is per tuk-tuk, not per person.