Bat Cave, Kampot (2024) - Images, Timings

Bat Cave, Kampot Overview

Bat Cave is located in Phnom Sampeau, near Battambang in Cambodia. It is famous for the emergence of millions of the Asian wrinkle-lipped bats every evening for their nocturnal hunting. The bats return next day in the early hours of the morning before the sun rises. It’s a spectacular show in the evening worth watching if you are traveling in Northern Cambodia. You can combine visiting Bat Cave with other attractions in Phnom Sampeau, for an excellent day-trip from Battambang.

The Bat Cave shows a fantastic spectacle at around 5 PM each day. Millions of bats burst out of the caves for their hunt in all directions as the dusk sets in every day. Their movement looks like a black stream in the sky against vibrant colours of the sunset in the backdrop as they disperse in the countryside near Tonle Sap. This incredible sight of vibrating buzz of the bats lasts for more than 30 minutes because of their population.

Ticket details

No entry fee. The drive up to the cave costs around 3 USD one way, and you can share your rides too.

Best time to visit

The best time to arrive at the cave is in the evening before sunset. If you want to combine visiting other attractions nearby, then plan accordingly to be here around evening.

Bat Cave Significance

Located near the Killing Caves infamous for mass human remains of the massacre during Khmer Rouge, the Cambodians believe that the emergence of bats is the soul of the victims of genocide trying to free themselves.

You can combine a visit to the Bat cave with Killing Caves and the pagoda at the summit offering beautiful views, both located in Phnom Sampeau.

Best place to watch

If you want to watch the spectacle up close, head to the entrance of the cave. It is a favourite spot and gets crowded as tourists occupy the place in advance. Also, it’s not advisable to go too close or inside as you may be harmed due to a large number of Bats.

There is a cave viewing area opposite to the entrance, from where you can grab a drink and sit comfortably to watch the Bats. You can also do a bit of climbing and sit on the rocks close to the entrance, which are great places to capture some shots of Bats flying out. You can also view the sunset from the top of these rocks apart from witnessing views of the Battambang countryside.

How To Reach Bat Cave

The cave is located 12 km southwest of Battambang city. There are tuk-tuks available to the base of the hill. They are not allowed further. You can take the 700 steep steps to reach to the top or opt for a motorbike that can be rented in the downtown of Battambang.

Alternatively, you can take a moto ride available at the base, for a roundtrip at the cost of about 4 USD.