If you’re planning to travel through Cambodia, the Phnom Penh railway station is one of the most underrated (and surprisingly enjoyable) ways to explore the country. It’s slower than flying, yes, but that’s exactly the point!
You get to see Cambodia. Rice fields, local villages, and those golden-hour sunsets that hit differently when you’re on a train.
So, if you’re curious about routes, prices, schedules, and how to actually book tickets without confusion, you’re in the right place.
Before we dive deep into this topic, make sure to take a look at this incredible 2-Day FLEXIBLE Itinerary for Phnom Penh! Think, “choose-your-own-adventure.”
Phnom Penh Railway Station: Where Do the Trains Actually Go?
First things first: what are the main train routes operating in Phnom Penh?
There are two main railway lines in Cambodia, and both start (and end) at the Phnom Penh railway station:
The Southern Line
This is easily the most popular route. It runs from Phnom Penh all the way down to the coast.
Stops include:
- Takeo
- Kampot
- Kep
- Sihanoukville (where the line ends)
This route is perfect if you’re heading to the beach or planning a relaxed coastal escape. Plus, Kampot alone makes the journey worth it.
The Northern Line
If you’re heading inland, this is your route.
Stops include:
- Pursat
- Moung Ruessei
- Bamnak
- Battambang (where the line ends)
It’s a slower, more local experience, but that’s part of the charm. Battambang, in particular, is a must-visit for culture and countryside vibes.
Good to know:
Both routes run daily and in both directions, but only ONCE a day. So keep that in mind when scheduling your trip and activities.
Phnom Penh Railway Schedule (and Operating Hours)
Now, let’s talk timing, because this is where things can get a bit confusing if you’re not prepared.
Phnom Penh Railway Operating Hours & Departures
Southern Line (Phnom Penh ⇄ Sihanoukville)
- Phnom Penh → Sihanoukville: train departs 07:00 AM
- Sihanoukville → Phnom Penh: train departs 14:00 PM
Northern Line (Phnom Penh ⇄ Battambang):
- Phnom Penh → Battambang: train departs 06:40 AM
- Battambang → Phnom Penh: train departs 15:00 PM
The train is also not always on-time. It usually leaves on time, but the journey there can often be slower (maybe there’s a cow on the tracks or the train makes a couple of extra unscheduled stops – all normal).
So don’t book your next activity too close to the estimated arrival time.
How Long Does it Take to Get From Phnom Penh to Battambang?
The train from Phnom Penh to Battambang takes between 6-7 hours (according to the official schedule). However, again, the train does often get delayed and will take a bit longer.
How Long Does it Take to Get From Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville?
From Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville, the train journey is roughly 6 hours 30 minutes.
If you are going to the islands and will book a ferry, give yourself a 2 hour window!
Phnom Penh Railway Ticket Prices
One of the best things about travelling by train in Cambodia? It’s affordable.
While prices can vary slightly depending on the class and exact stop you are going to, here’s a rough idea:
- Phnom Penh → Sihanoukville: ~$7–$10
- Phnom Penh → Kampot: ~$6–$8
- Phnom Penh → Battambang: ~$8–$10
Considering the distance, it’s excellent value for money. Plus, you’re paying for the experience, not just the transport.
And, in my opinion, this is a MUCH safer option compared to taking a mini bus (which I will never do again in Cambodia).
Travelling with Your Motorcycle or Bicycle
Planning a road trip across Cambodia? You can actually bring your bike along.
Approximate costs:
- Bicycle: $5
- Motorbike < 140cc: $10
- Motorbike 140–150cc: $15
- Motorbike > 150cc: $20
However, availability isn’t guaranteed. We took our motorcycle with us to Sihanouk and on the way back, the DAY before departure, we were informed that the next day they will not be transporting motorcycles. We had to drive all the way back to Phnom Penh on dirt roads. It sucked.
Also, you can only take the bikes with you on certain days (I believe it’s Friday, Saturday, and Sunday).
How to Purchase Phnom Penh Train Tickets
This is one of the most common questions: where can I purchase tickets for rail journeys within Cambodia?
You’ve got a few options:
Buy at the station
You can purchase tickets directly at Phnom Penh railway station. However, during busy periods, trains can sell out, so don’t leave it too late. I always prefer booking ahead through the official website.
Book online
If you prefer convenience, book directly through the Royal Railway official website. There is no need to use third-party sites like BookMeBus, etc.
This is the easiest way if you’re planning ahead or travelling during peak season.
How to Book Train Tickets for Cambodia Travel Online
It’s simple:
- Put in your starting point and final destination (don’t book a ticket for Sihanoukville if you are stopping in kampot)
- Select your departure date
- Add number of people (tickets)
- Select the train you’d like to book (normal or first class)
- Select your seat/s
- If you have a round trip booked, complete these steps again for your return trip
- Pay online
- Show your e-ticket at the station
Easy, right?
Can You Travel with Pets on the Phnom Penh Railway Train?
Yes, you can bring your furry friend, but there are a few rules.
- Cats and small dogs must be in a cage or carrier
- Larger dogs need to be crated and will travel in the baggage car
Always check in advance to confirm availability for your specific train. Policies can change, and not every service allows it.
FAQ
How can I book train tickets from the US to Phnom Penh railway stations?
If you’re booking from abroad, the process is exactly the same. Just use an online booking platform. There’s no need to wait until you arrive in Cambodia.
Phnom Penh Railway routes and connections to neighbouring countries
Here’s something important to know:
There are no direct international train routes from Phnom Penh (yet).
So, if you’re wondering about cross-border travel, you’ll need to combine train + bus or train + flight. For example:
- Train to Battambang → Bus to Thailand (although at the time of writing this article, all land borders to Thailand are still closed)
- Train to Sihanoukville → Ferry to islands
- Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City → you can take a train to Kampot and grab a bus across the border
It’s not seamless, but it’s definitely doable.
What are the best train routes to explore in Cambodia?
If you’re not sure which route to pick, here are a few favourites:
- Phnom Penh → Kampot: Great for first-time travellers
- Phnom Penh → Sihanoukville: Perfect for beach lovers
- Phnom Penh → Battambang: Ideal for culture and countryside
Each route offers something completely different. So, it really depends on your travel style.
Is there a train from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap?
Unfortunately, there isn’t a train line going from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. You can go to Battambang and take a bus from there to Siem Reap (about 3 hours).
Final Thoughts: Is the Phnom Penh Railway Worth It?
Honestly? Yes, if you go in with the right expectations.
It’s not the fastest way to travel. It’s not the most luxurious either. But it is one of the most memorable. And sometimes, that’s what matters most.
So, if you’re looking to slow down, see more, and experience Cambodia beyond the usual tourist spots, the Phnom Penh railway station is a great place to start.
If you found this helpful, save this post for your trip—or share it with someone planning a Cambodia adventure. And if you’ve taken the train before, I’d love to hear your experience. You can also follow along for more Cambodia travel tips, hidden gems, and honest guides
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