Hotels near Phare Ponleu Selpak

Phare Ponleu Selpak is a performing arts school on the outskirts of Battambang, in Anchanh village, where students train in circus, theatre, music and visual arts. By day visitors can walk around the grounds and see something of the school itself; in the evening the site hosts a circus-style performance staged by the students, usually preceded by the option of dinner on site.

Guests are consistently struck by the standard of the performances, describing acrobatics and staging that feel far beyond what they expected from a community project, with some comparing individual acts favourably to professional circus companies. Reviewers also highlight the storytelling woven into the shows, which touches on aspects of Cambodian history and society rather than being pure spectacle. Beyond the entertainment, many mention the underlying purpose of the place: it functions as a largely self-sustaining organisation that provides shelter, food and education to children and families in the area, and several note that alumni have gone on to professional careers in Siem Reap and internationally. The welcome from staff and the pleasant, walkable grounds are also frequently mentioned. No significant complaints appear in the reviews.

Opening hours vary slightly by day, generally running mornings from 8am to noon and afternoons from 2pm, with evenings extending to 6pm or later on some days, so it is worth checking the schedule for the specific show time before setting off. The site sits a short tuk-tuk ride from central Battambang, and visitors staying in town report easy access both ways. It suits families, as children are mentioned as enjoying the shows, as well as anyone interested in Cambodian arts or in supporting a social enterprise, and arriving early enough to look around the school before the performance adds to the visit.

• Rated 4.8 out of 5 by 582 travellers on Google

Reviews published on Google by travellers.

456P+F7X ANCHANH VILLAGE, Phum Anh'Chanh, Cambodia

Opening hours

• Monday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 8:30 PM
• Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 6:00 PM
• Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 6:00 PM
• Thursday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 8:30 PM
• Frid