The Bamboo Train of Cambodia: A Unique Journey Through Time and Nature

A ride on the bamboo train is a unique, fascinating, and unforgettable experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the life of the local Cambodian population, travel along villages and rice fields, and see how local people live and work.

The bamboo train, known in Cambodia as "norry" (from the French word "lorry"), is an improvised means of transport consisting of a wooden platform covered with bamboo slats, mounted on two axles with metal wheels. It is powered by a small gasoline engine, which allows it to reach speeds of up to 50 km/h (this is the maximum speed, and tourists are not taken at such speeds).

You can ride the bamboo train in Cambodia in Battambang Province.

The train is brought and assembled right in front of you. You are provided with plenty of soft cushions to make the ride comfortable, as little attention was given to shock absorption in the past. The train runs for just half an hour in one direction and another half an hour back. But this is enough to enjoy the ride. It passes through villages and fields, and most interestingly, it crosses a four-lane highway. This is a particularly thrilling moment because the highway is busy, and the train darts between cars, despite its relatively low speed, especially during start-up.

At the final stop, you need to get off the train so it can be disassembled and reassembled for the return journey.

Since the track for the bamboo train is single and used in both directions, when two trains meet, the smaller bamboo train is disassembled and removed from the rails to let the other one pass. This demonstrates the ingenuity and cooperation of the locals.

A ride on the "norry" offers a unique travel experience through Cambodia's countryside, allowing you to enjoy views of rice fields, villages, and nature.

Originally, the "norry" appeared as a means of transportation on railway tracks built by the French colonial government. After the destruction caused by civil war and the Khmer Rouge regime, traditional rail services became rare. Locals began using "norry" trains to transport people and goods along the remaining tracks. Nowadays, it is more of a tourist attraction, although locals still use bamboo trains to transport goods and items between nearby villages, especially during the off-season.

Where you can ride it now:

The most famous "norry" routes are in Battambang Province in northwestern Cambodia. The traditional route started near the city of Battambang and ran through picturesque rice fields and villages. However, in October 2017, the original route was closed due to the resumption of regular railway service between Poipet and Phnom Penh. In January 2018, the "norry" was relocated closer to Phnom Banan Temple, about 20 km from Battambang, to continue serving tourists.

You can organize a bamboo train ride independently, but it’s better to arrange it with a local guide, book the trip in advance, and visit it on your way to one of the temples.

Tips for those who want to ride the bamboo train:

Book your desired date and time in advance, as there are many people who want to ride it.
Choose morning or evening hours because it’s very hot during the day and uncomfortable to spend more than an hour under the scorching sun.
Since the ride is on an open platform, it’s recommended to wear sunglasses and clothing that protects against the sun and wind.
Renting the bamboo train for one hour for two people cost about $100.
Bring water, as the ride lasts about an hour (approximately 7 km one way and 7 km back).
Don’t forget to bring photo and video cameras to capture the ride.

A ride on the bamboo train "norry" is an opportunity to immerse yourself in Cambodian culture and daily life, feel the ingenuity of the locals, and enjoy unforgettable landscapes.

A short video of a bamboo train ride in Cambodia will show you the charm of the simplicity and uniqueness of this one-of-a-kind form of transport: