🇰🇭 Phnom Sampeau | Battambang’s Sacred & Somber Mountain

📍 Location & Overview Located 12-18km southwest of Battambang, this limestone karst mountain blends spiritual significance with dark historical legacy. A half-day tuk-tuk tour (~$15) can cover both the Bamboo Train and Phnom Sampeau. 🙏 Sacred Sites 30m Giant Buddha Head: Carved into the cliffside at the mountain’s base. Golden Reclining Buddha: Nestled halfway up the trail. ☠️ Khmer Rouge Killing Caves During the 1975–1979 genocide, the Khmer Rouge used the mountain’s natural caves as execution sites. Victims were thrown into deep pits—now a memorial stupa houses their bones. A haunting but essential visit. 🦇 Bat Exodus Spectacle At ~6PM daily, over 1 million bats swarm out of the caves to hunt. Locals and tourists gather at footside food stalls to witness this aerial river lasting up to 40 minutes. Pro tip: Arrive by 5:30PM to snag a seat! 🍍 Local Vibe Sunset snacks: Try grilled sticky rice (kralan) or coconut cakes. Vendors sell bat-shaped souvenirs (irony noted). ⚠️ Tips Wear sturdy shoes for steep, uneven paths. Respect memorial areas—no loud chatter. Combine with the Bamboo Train for a full afternoon. #Battambang #Cambodia #DarkTourism