
Psar Nath Central Market Battambang
Battambang's vibrant Psar Nath Central Market: a historic Art Deco gem offering authentic Khmer food, local crafts, and a true taste of Cambodian life...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Freshest produce & less heat

Psar Nath Central Market Battambang
Best Time
Freshest produce & less heat

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Battambang's vibrant Psar Nath Central Market: a historic Art Deco gem offering authentic Khmer food, local crafts, and a true taste of Cambodian life.
"A vibrant and authentic cultural experience reflecting the city's history and daily rhythms."

💰 Bargain Smartly
Be aware of prices, especially as a tourist. Speaking some Khmer can help!
🍜 Taste the Local Flavors
Don't miss the affordable street food and unique snacks like fried insects.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Art Deco Architecture
Market Building
Admire the French colonial Art Deco design, reminiscent of Phnom Penh's Central Market.

Authentic Khmer Cuisine
Food Stalls
Savor affordable and delicious local dishes like noodles and sticky rice cakes.

Unique Snack Adventures
Food Stalls
Dare to try local delicacies, including a surprisingly good variety of fried insects.

Local Craftsmanship
Various Sections
Browse for fabrics, jewelry, and souvenirs, experiencing the heart of Battambang's commerce.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Navigating the Market
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Bargain Smartly
Be aware of prices, especially as a tourist. Speaking some Khmer can help!
🍜 Taste the Local Flavors
Don't miss the affordable street food and unique snacks like fried insects.
🛍️ Find Unique Finds
Great for fabrics, jewelry, and local crafts. Perfect for souvenir hunting.
🥵 Beat the Heat
The market can get hot and stuffy, especially the food areas. Stay hydrated!
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Bargain Smartly
Be aware of prices, especially as a tourist. Speaking some Khmer can help!
🍜 Taste the Local Flavors
Don't miss the affordable street food and unique snacks like fried insects.
🛍️ Find Unique Finds
Great for fabrics, jewelry, and local crafts. Perfect for souvenir hunting.
🥵 Beat the Heat
The market can get hot and stuffy, especially the food areas. Stay hydrated!
📸 Capture the Vibe
The market's architecture and bustling activity make for great photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Psar Nath Central Market is a vibrant hub offering a genuine slice of Battambang life, from its French colonial architecture to its diverse food stalls. While some visitors note potential overcharging, the market provides affordable local cuisine and unique shopping opportunities. It's a place to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Cambodia.
"There are many markets in Battambang but this is the biggest. There are different sections from clothes, jewellery, cosmetics, eatery to fresh produce. Eating here is pocket friendly but can get hot and stuffy. As you know, all markets are similar. If you need to buy, then you need to be there. This market is not really crowded."
Lee Kokliang
"Battambang Central Market, also known as Phsar Nath (ផ្សារណាត់), is a major hub of local life in Battambang. More than just a place to shop, it's a vibrant and authentic cultural experience that reflects the city's history and daily rhythms.
French Colonial Influence: The market building is a significant architectural landmark, built in the 1930s under French colonial administration. Its Art Deco style is similar to the famous Central Market in Phnom Penh, as it was designed by the same French architects.
Food Stalls: The market is a fantastic place to sample local Cambodian cuisine. You'll find numerous food stalls serving affordable and authentic dishes like noodles, sticky rice cakes, and other traditional snacks."
Seng Pheng
"No fun at all. Some pretty fabrics, mostly made in Bangladesh- but it's downright racist the way they scam the very few tourists so cunningly and with glee. Imagine if you came to my country and because you have brown eyes - we try to make you pay 100% more than us and then laugh at you for reacting. Shame on you! I speak Khmer- I know what you called me and how you talked between yourself about me, especially the women selling fruit and those selling fabrics!"
Åse Ingeborg
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Psar Nath is centrally located in Battambang, making it easily accessible. You can walk if you're staying nearby, or take a short tuk-tuk ride from most parts of the city. Many locals use bicycles and motorbikes to get here.
Yes, there is usually space for motorbikes and bicycles. For cars, street parking is available nearby, though it can get busy.
Walking is the best way to immerse yourself in the market's atmosphere. For longer distances within Battambang, tuk-tuks are readily available and affordable.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Psar Nath Central Market is free. It's a public market, so you can wander through its sections without any admission fee.
The market is generally open daily from early morning until late evening, though specific stall hours can vary. The food sections are most active in the morning and late afternoon.
Psar Nath is generally safe, but like any market, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure. Some tourists have reported feeling overcharged, so polite negotiation is advised.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can find a wide variety of goods, including fresh produce, meats, seafood, clothing, jewelry, cosmetics, household items, and souvenirs.
While it's a major hub, Psar Nath is generally not described as overly crowded, especially compared to markets in larger cities. It offers a more relaxed shopping experience.
The atmosphere is vibrant and bustling, filled with the sights, sounds, and smells of local commerce. It's a great place to experience authentic Cambodian daily life.
Restroom facilities are typically available within the market, though their condition can vary. It's always a good idea to carry hand sanitizer.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a diverse range of local Khmer dishes, including noodles, soups, sticky rice cakes, fresh fruits, and various snacks. Fried insects are also a popular, albeit adventurous, option.
Yes, the food here is known for being very pocket-friendly and offering great value for authentic local flavors.
While many dishes are meat-based, you can often find fruit stalls and some noodle dishes that can be adapted for vegetarians. It's best to ask vendors directly.
Generally, yes. Look for stalls that are busy with locals, as this usually indicates freshness and good quality. Be mindful of hygiene.
Yes, the area around Psar Nath has many local eateries and restaurants. Jaan Bai, recommended for its excellent Khmer and pan-Asian dishes, is located nearby.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but it's always polite to ask permission before taking close-up shots of vendors or their goods, especially if they seem hesitant.
Capture the vibrant colors of the produce, the intricate details of the architecture, the interactions between vendors and shoppers, and the unique food offerings.
Mornings offer good natural light and a lively atmosphere as the market opens. Late afternoons can also be good as the light softens.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the fruit stalls or simpler food options for younger eaters. The insect food might be a point of fascination or apprehension, depending on your child's adventurousness! It's also a good place to find colorful fabrics or small souvenirs that kids might enjoy. Remember to stay hydrated and take breaks if needed.
💰 Budget Travelers
When shopping for souvenirs, be prepared to negotiate politely. While some vendors may try to charge more, a little friendly bargaining can help you get great deals on fabrics, handicrafts, and other items. The market is also a fantastic place to buy local snacks and fruits to keep your travel expenses down.
🍜 Foodies & Culinary Explorers
Beyond the market, the nearby Jaan Bai restaurant offers a more refined dining experience with locally sourced ingredients, making it a perfect complement to your market exploration. This market is also a great place to find ingredients if you're interested in local cooking classes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Gem: French Colonial Influence
Exploring the market's interior reveals the enduring charm of this historical building. While it has been adapted for modern commerce, the original architectural elements are still visible, providing a unique backdrop to the daily hustle and bustle. It’s a stark contrast to the more modern structures in the city and offers a sense of timelessness.
A Culinary Adventure: Tasting Battambang
For those seeking a more unique culinary experience, the market is known for its variety of fried insects. While this might seem unusual to some, it's a traditional snack in Cambodia and offers a crunchy, protein-rich bite. Many visitors find the insect selection here to be surprisingly diverse and well-prepared. Beyond the market itself, the surrounding area boasts numerous eateries, including Jaan Bai, a highly-rated restaurant that uses local ingredients to create delicious Khmer and pan-Asian dishes, making it a great option for a sit-down meal after exploring the market.
Navigating Tourist Interactions
Learning a few basic Khmer phrases, such as greetings and numbers, can go a long way in fostering positive interactions and potentially securing better prices. Vendors often appreciate the effort. If you feel a price is unreasonable, it's perfectly acceptable to politely decline and move on. Remember, the goal is to experience the culture, not just to make a purchase.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit