Phnom Sampov, or Phnom Sampeau, is one of the popular attractions in Battambang renowned for nightly nature show as hoards of bats exit the mountains cave at dusk every night. You can enjoy the bat show, and also go up and explore the mountain itself.
At the base of the mountain is a contemporary pagoda, and on the mountainside near the entry off National Road 57, there is the famed bat cave that put on a nightly show as mentioned, and the grand Buddha carved into the mountainside. A little further around and there is a sealed path leading up and around the mountain, you can pay a small fee and drive or ride up. There are also stairs up to the top, and it’s free to go up that way. At the top, there is the stunning stupa and its surrounding shrines along with stunning views, which are especially so as the sun sets.
Once up top, there are numerous trails to follow and explore the caves which are all over the mountain. Some act as shrines, some connected with folklore and some are “killing caves” from the Khmer Rouge era. Regardless, some of the natural scenery and dramatic shape and form of the caves are quite wonderful.
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Map
Site Info
- Site Name: Phnom Sampov (V.) Khmer Name: វត្តភ្នំសំពៅ
- Reference ID: HA11420 | Last Update: March 14th, 2022
- Tags/Group: T4, Temples, Wat
- Location: Battambang Province > Banan District > Phnum Sampov Commune > Sampov Kaeut Village
- MoCFA ID: 91
- IK Number: 863
- Inscription Number/s: K. 446
