Central Market Battambang  lies a bustling and vibrant marketplace known as the Central Market. This iconic landmark is not only a popular spot for locals to buy and sell goods, but it also attracts tourists from all over the world.open 7 days a week from- 6am to 6 pm.

About Pasar Nat

Central Market Battambang (Pasar Nat)

  In the Heart of Battambang |  Open Daily: 6 AM – 6 PM

Step into the beating heart of Battambang!   From the break of dawn, Central Market (Pasar Nat) bursts into life with the sounds, colors, and scents of authentic Cambodian culture.

This isn’t just a market — it’s a full-on sensory experience. Wander through rows of vibrant produce, handwoven textiles, glittering jewelry, and warm local smiles.

Whether you’re hunting for rare spices, tasting street food that’ll blow your mind  , or simply soaking in the daily rhythm of local life, Pasar Nat delivers a raw, unfiltered taste of Cambodia you won’t find in tourist-heavy spots like Phnom Penh or Saigon.

 Why Visit?

• Authentic local vibe – very few tourists, all real charm

• Perfect for early birds — get the best deals before the heat sets in

• A place to eat, shop, people-watch, and feel Battambang

  From fresh produce to fashion, household goods to hidden gems — it’s all here.
  Hungry? Don’t miss the sizzling street food stalls tucked into every corner.

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Russian Market

One of the most visited and popular shopping destinations in Cambodia is the Russian Market. It offers a wide array of products from souvenirs to food booths for the tourists and locals.Open 7 days a week from 6:30 am to 5pm,.. more info on markets in Phnom Penh.

History: Tracing the Roots of Russian Market

The Russian Market in Phnom Penh, also known as Tuol Tom Poung Market, has a fascinating history that dates back to the 1980s. Originally built to accommodate the local Russian community during the Cold War era, the market has evolved into a bustling hub where locals and tourists alike come to shop, eat, and immerse themselves in the local culture.

Location: Discovering the Heart of Phnom Penh

Situated in the Chamkarmon district of Phnom Penh, the Russian Market offers a convenient location for visitors to explore. Nestled amidst the bustling streets, this vibrant market is easily accessible from various parts of the city, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

What Makes Russian Market Unique?

Cultural Diversity: As one of the oldest and most popular markets in Phnom Penh, the Russian Market is a melting pot of cultures. Here, you can find a wide range of products that reflect the diverse influences of Cambodia’s history, from traditional Khmer crafts to Russian imports and international souvenirs.
Authentic Shopping Experience: Unlike modern shopping malls, the market offers an authentic and immersive experience for visitors. Its narrow alleys are lined with stalls selling everything from clothing and accessories to antiques and handicrafts. Exploring the market feels like a treasure hunt, where hidden gems await at every turn.

Bargaining Paradise: Bargaining is a way of life at the Russian Market. With its colorful array of goods and friendly vendors, haggling over prices adds to the excitement of shopping here. Be prepared to test your negotiation skills and walk away with unique finds at affordable prices.

What Can You Find at the Russian Market?

• Clothing and Accessories: The market boasts an extensive collection of clothing, shoes, and accessories. From intricately embroidered traditional garments to trendy clothes and designer knockoffs, fashion enthusiasts will find plenty of options to suit their style.
• Handicrafts and Souvenirs: The market is a treasure trove for those seeking unique souvenirs or authentic Cambodian handicrafts. From handwoven silk scarves and intricately carved wooden statues to handmade jewelry and traditional paintings, there’s something for everyone.
• Local Delicacies: Indulge in the flavors of Cambodia by exploring the market’s culinary offerings. Sample local street food stalls serving up delicious Khmer dishes, or discover traditional spices and condiments to take home and recreate the flavors of Cambodia in your own kitchen.

Discover the Heart of Phnom Penh – Central Market!

Step into the vibrant energy of Central Market Phnom Penh, a bustling hub with hundreds of stalls and booths offering everything from textiles and jewelry to street food and souvenirs — and so much more!

 Open 7 days a week, 7 AM – 6 PM
 Non-stop action, local culture, and endless treasures await!

Housed in a striking Art Deco masterpiece, the Central Market (Khmer: ផ្សារធំថ្មី, Phsar Thum Thmei – meaning “New Grand Market”) is more than just a shopping destination — it’s a cultural landmark. Built in 1937, this bold yellow icon features a 26-metre-high central dome with four vast wings radiating out, filled with goods, colors, and the buzz of daily life.

Designed by Jean Desbois and completed under Louis Chauchon, the market was once the largest in Asia — and nearly a century later, it’s still one of the most exciting places to explore in Cambodia.

Whether you’re a local or a traveler, Central Market is the pulse of Phnom Penh — don’t miss it!

Central Market  Phnom Penh

(more info on other markets)

Traditional Festivals in Cambodia

Every country has its own unique national culture. Cambodia, as a small country in Southeast Asia, also has its ethnic culture which makes you feel curious and fresh. Apart from some international festivals, what do you know about traditional Cambodian festivals? If you want to travel to Cambodia, it is helpful to know some traditional Cambodian festivals.

In Cambodia, there are many festivals throughout the year, including New Year of Cambodia, Water Festival, Kite Festival, Fasting Festival, and Rainy Season. The Cambodian National Church is Buddhism, and most festivals are related to the Buddhist calendar. Ancestors’ Day (Pchum Ben), the Water Festival (Bon Om Tuk) and the New Year (Khmer New Year) are the three most important festivals in Cambodia.

1 New Year (Khmer New Year) in Cambodia – April

The Cambodian New Year is also called the Songkran Festival in Southeast Asia. The festival is usually in mid-April and it is celebrated for three days. The Cambodians go to the temple to get fragrant, sweep the house to remove dust and give each other gifts. Young and old splash water upon one another to mark the occasion. Wat Phnom (in Phnom Penh) and Angkor Wat (in Siem Reap) are the main venues for celebrations. Most temples are frantic during the New Year.

Unlike most Cambodian holidays which follow the lunar calendar, New Year in Cambodia follows the Gregorian calendar – celebrated for three days from April 13 to April 15.

2 Water Festival in Cambodia – October or November

The festival held in December of Buddhist calendar, is a traditional Cambodian festival, which is established to celebrate the end of the rainy season and the retreat of the river. It marks the end of the rainy season and the arrival of the fishing season. The Mekong River rises in the rainy season and brings a lot of fertile silt, which is beneficial to agricultural production. In order to pray for the harvest of the next year and thank the water god for bringing abundant water and natural fertilizer to the world during the rainy season, people hold grand regatta activities along the Mekong River, tour boats and moon festivals at night. The center of the event is in Phnom Penh. Kings, queens, and officials sit on the viewing platform built by the river to watch the game and watch the night scene. Thousands of people from all over the country to Phnom Penh to participate in activities. The celebration lasts for 3 days.

3 Ancestors Day in Cambodia – September

Ancestors’ Day is held from 1 October to 15 October in the Buddhist calendar (usually in the new calendar in September). It is roughly equivalent to China’s Qing Ming Festival. The main purpose is to trace the dead souls to worship the ancestors but with more Cambodian characteristics and religious colors. The last 3 days of the festival are statutory holidays, and neither the government nor the private sector usually go to work for about 7 days. The celebration lasts for 15 days.

4 Royal Ploughing Day in Cambodia – April/May

Royal Ploughing Ceremony held in the fourth month of the lunar calendar is a traditional agricultural festival held under the leadership of the royal family. It marks the beginning of the traditional rice season. The farming ceremony is held in front of the National Museum near the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh. It is said that the royal cow at the ceremony can use the nose to predict the quality of the annual banker’s harvest. After the king or the royal family go to the field to help the plow, they take the cattle to the rice, beans, corn, grass, water and wine prepared in advance and let them choose. According to what the cow eats, predict the harvest prospects of the year.

5 Buddha’s “Birthday” in Cambodia

On the June 15th of the Buddhist calendar, this is the day to celebrate the Buddha’s birthday, enlightenment and nirvana. The celebrations in Angkor Wat are the most grand. In this day, the monks march in parade in the Angkor Wat with candlelight.