The Bamboo Train (Norry) – Battambang’s Quirky Ride

A ride on the Bamboo Train, locally known as the Norry, is one of the most quirky and unforgettable experiences in Battambang. More than just a novelty, it represents a fascinating story of Cambodian ingenuity, transforming the country’s damaged railway system into a resourceful means of transport.

What Is the Bamboo Train?

The Norry is essentially a flat bamboo platform mounted on two axles with wheels, often repurposed from wartime vehicles, and powered by a small gasoline engine. There are no seats or carriages. Instead, passengers sit cross-legged on the bamboo deck, sometimes sharing the space with motorbikes, rice sacks, or even livestock.

This stripped-down yet practical design made it possible to travel along Cambodia’s neglected railway lines. Long before it became a favorite attraction for visitors, it served as a vital lifeline for local communities, helping them move people, goods, and supplies efficiently.

History of Bamboo Train

The Bamboo Train first emerged after the fall of the Khmer Rouge, during a period when formal train services were scarce and unreliable, often running just once a week. Locals, driven by necessity, improvised with makeshift bamboo trains to maintain connections across the countryside.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Norry was its cooperative system of travel. When two bamboo trains met on the single-track line, the lighter one would be quickly disassembled and lifted off the rails within seconds, allowing the other to pass. This simple yet ingenious solution highlighted the adaptability and teamwork of rural Cambodians.

Today, the original railway line has been replaced to make way for Cambodia’s revived train system. However, a tourist version of the Norry still operates just outside Battambang, ensuring this unique slice of history and culture continues to be experienced by visitors from around the world.

Experience the Ride

Riding the Bamboo Train is a thrilling and scenic adventure. The platform glides at surprising speed through stretches of rice paddies, rural villages, and open countryside, offering unobstructed views of Battambang’s landscapes.

The experience is fun and interactive, with the rhythmic clatter of the tracks, the rush of warm breeze, and the playful process of disassembling when two trains meet. Each ride feels spontaneous and full of character, adding to its charm.

Beyond the excitement, the Norry also provides cultural insight. It is not just about the ride itself, but about witnessing an invention born from necessity, now celebrated as a symbol of Cambodian resilience and creativity.