The small town Sisophon is located in the northwest of Cambodia. It is the capital city of Banteay Meanchy. The town is officially named Serei Saophoan, which is generally transliterated as Sisophon. The name Serei Saophoan is Khmer for “beautiful lady”. The area used to be inside Thailand before the French gave it back to Cambodia. Sisophon is strategically situated at the intersection of National Highway 5 en National Highway 6.
Sisophon makes a good first stop when traveling from Poipet in the west. It is also a good place to start exploring some sights around. It is about fourty minutes to get to the Khmer temple of Banteay Chmar, to the north of the town. You can also visit the Angkorian temple of Banteay Top. More to the northeast there is a special bird sanctuary, called Ang Trapeng Thmor Reserve.
Sisophon is connected to many other cities in Cambodia through the National Highways. Traveling from the town to other cities is easy, but be aware of the state of the roads. Highway 69 for instance to Banteay Chmar is impassable during raining seasons. Battabamg to the south, Poipet to the west and Siem Reap to the east are more accessible by driving on Highway 5 or Highway 6.
Travelers to Sisophon and Cambodia require a valid passport and visa. American citizens will receive a visa upon arrival valid for 30 days in exchange for $20.00 US. There’s also an exit fee of $25.00 US when leaving the country.
