In a grubby little town in western Cambodia called Battambang, there is little to do unless you pad out a visit with activities that can be better seen elsewhere. But Battambang has one unique claim to fame, which was the reason we made a stop there after leaving Siem Reap, and before crossing the border in to Thailand - The Bamboo Train! Named so because carriages consist of 3-metre squared fence panel-like frames made of bamboo which sit on two barbell-like axels connected by a fan belt to what amounts to a lawnmower engine. Its speed controlled by a broom pole, which is somehow temporarily connected to the throttle, the ‘train’ happily cruises along at 15km/h (although it feels much faster when you‘re actually on it). Nevermind that it would not pass a single relevant Health & Safety regulation in the UK, apparently it is not uncommon to see a dozen or so people piled on to one carriage together with several tonnes of rice or produce to sell at the market. Alarmingly, the track is used for real trains, but it’s ok as there is ample time to stop, disassemble one’s carriage and get out of the way before being crushed to death. Now, where do I buy a ticket?
Advertising Feature
If there is one thing you must do this summer, it is ride the fabulous Bamboo Train!
*Fully Air-conditioned Carriages
*Private Carriages on request
*Warped and misaligned rails included
*Jolts, jerks and lower back pain included
*Health & Safety certificate pending (35 years)
*experience SINGLE TRACK (in case of oncoming train, carriage disassembly required)
*OPPORTUNITY for real trainspotting
*Life insurance extra
Hurry! You only have 2 months to ride the Bamboo Train before the Cambodian government abandons it for track upgrade and train service development.
For all ticket types, call 0800-BAMBOO
Disclaimer: The Bamboo Train Co. IS NOT LIABLE FOR INCIDENCES OF DEATH, LOSS OF LIMBS OR PARALYSIS
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