Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
LE CIRQUE
Battambang's signature attraction is the internationally acclaimed circus (
cirque nouveau
) of
Phare
Ponleu Selpak
( 053-952424;
www.phareps.org
; adult/student US$10/5), a multi-arts centre for
disadvantaged children. Even though they are now running shows in Siem Reap, it's worth timing
your visit to Battambang to watch this amazing spectacle where it all began. Performances are at
6.15pm on Monday, Thursday and Saturday, with a Friday show added during the high season.
Phare, as it's known to locals, does a ton of stuff - contrary to popular belief it is not just a circus. It
trains musicians, visual artists and performing artists as well. Many of the artists you'll bump into
around town, such as Ke of Choco l'art Cafe fame, lived and studied at Phare. Guests are welcome to
walk in during the day to
tour
(US$5; 8am-11am & 2-5pm) the Phare complex and observe cir-
cus, dance, music, drawing and graphic-arts classes. This is definitely five dollars well spent.
To get here from the Vishnu Roundabout on NH5, head west for 900m and then turn right (north)
and continue another 600m.
Arts Quarter
(St 2½)
The name is not official yet, but all things point to the block of St 2½ that runs
south of Psar Nath becoming Battambang's first concentrated arts district. A gaggle of
galleries, shops and funky bars have set up, including Lotus Bar and Make Maek, with
more expected to follow. Make a point to have a stroll here and check out the latest hap-
penings.
Lotus Bar owner Darren Swallow, who helped found the respected Sammaki Gallery a
bit further south on St 2½, expects to inaugurate a 'First Friday' art market, which will see
the street closed to vehicular traffic.
NEIGHBOURHOOD
Wats
Battambang's Buddhist temples survived the Khmer Rouge period relatively unscathed
thanks to a local commander who ignored orders from on high. Some of the best are
Wat
Kandal
.
BUDDHIST TEMPLE
HISTORIC SITE
Train Station
Here the time is always 8.02. Just along the tracks to the south, you can explore a treasure
rolling stock.
