Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? If you’ve got a thirst for travel and an appetite for exploration, buckle up! This epic journey takes you from the vibrant streets of Phnom Penh to the enigmatic lands of North Korea, and then off to the coastal charm of Dalian—all spread over an incredible 8000 kilometers.
This trip offers a mix of train rides, street food experiences, and rich cultural insights. So, let’s get traveling…
Phnom Penh to Battambang: The Scenic Train Ride
The adventure begins in Phnom Penh, the lively capital of Cambodia. Before you set off, immerse yourself in the local culture. Take a stroll through the bustling markets, sip on a refreshing glass of sugarcane juice, and visit the iconic Royal Palace. Once you’ve had your fill of the city, it’s time to board the train to Battambang.
The ride from Phnom Penh to Battambang covers approximately 304 kilometers. Although the train is not the fanciest option, it offers a unique experience. The train rolls through lush farmland, tiny villages, and fields of rice that seem to stretch endlessly into the horizon. Keep your eyes peeled for local life; you might spot farmers tending to their crops or children waving as you pass by.
Battambang is one of my favorite places in Cambodia and aside from Khmer Rouge also offers some of the best street food.
Transfer to Poipet: Crossing the Border
After enjoying your time in Battambang, it’s time to make the way to Poipet. This journey is a quick transfer by bus or taxi, typically taking about 3-4 hours. Poipet serves as the gateway to Thailand, and you’ll be ready to move on in no time. Another option instead of Battambang is Siem Reap.
When you reach Poipet, prepare for the bureaucratic adventure of crossing the border into Thailand, well a long que at least. I usually spend at least one night here if nothing else for the Poipet Street Food scene.
Crossing into Thailand and Taking the Slow Train to Bangkok
Congratulations! You’ve entered Thailand! After clearing customs, your next step is to board the slow train to Bangkok. This journey will typically cover around 250 kilometers. It may not offer high-speed thrills, but it’s a delightful way to soak in the sights and sounds of the Thai countryside.
Onboard, you’ll experience a bit of local culture as vendors come through the aisles selling everything from savory snacks to cold drinks. Enjoy some tasty treats while you watch the scenery roll by. Once you arrive in Bangkok, well that is the time you can relax and maybe party with the cool kids….
To read about taking this train click here.
Bangkok as we all well know is an absolute street food haven with places like Khao San Road and even Chinatown needing very little introduction. .
Bangkok to Vientiane: On the Phnom Penh to North Korea Marathon
Once you’ve had your fill of Bangkok’s vibrant atmosphere, it’s time to head north toward Laos. You’ll take a train to the border at Nong Khai, which will cover around 645 kilometers. Once you arrive, a quick border transfer will get you into Vientiane, the relaxed capital of Laos.
Our trip to Vientiane was absolutely epic with the discovery of some really underrated street food as well as a cool and rather vibrant nightlife. I will certainly be back here, I might though avoid the moonshine.
Train to Kunming: Entering China – 1-3 of Phnom Penh to North Korea
With Vientiane behind you, prepare for another exciting train ride—this time to Kunming, China. This leg of the journey covers about 1646 kilometers, bringing you deeper into the heart of Yunnan Province. Onboard, you’ll notice that this is basically a Chinese train, equipped with modern amenities and clean facilities.
Kunming is a well known city for being linked places like Dali that are well and truly on the tourist trail. I also found some truly great Street Food in Kunming.
Overnight Train to Shenzhen
After exploring Kunming and enjoying the local flavors, it’s time to take an overnight train to Shenzhen, covering about 1479 kilometers. The train experience in China is quite unique, with options for sleeper carriages that allow for a comfortable night’s sleep while you travel. You might find yourself sharing a compartment with fellow travelers, leading to engaging conversations and new friendships.
Shenzhen is a bustling metropolis known for its rapid development and innovative tech industry. It’s also where our office is located! Upon arrival, I had several meetings planned to Hong Kong and Guangzhou, which adds more kilometers to my journey. I was also here to fix some office issues, as well as watch Trump win the election – well I was watching the election without necessarily wanting him to win, or lose. Sadly opinions are dangerous these days.
To Guangzhou and the Slow Train to Beijing
After taking care of business in Shenzhen, it’s time to head to Guangzhou. This leg of the journey covers about 292 kilometers. Guangzhou is a bustling city with a rich culinary heritage, and it’s worth spending some time exploring.
Once you’ve experienced Guangzhou’s delights, it’s time for a slightly longer journey—22 hours on a slow train to Beijing. You’ll find a range of accommodations available, including soft and hard sleeper tickets. The train cars typically accommodate 2-4 berths, allowing for a cozy night of travel.
This I would say now ranks as one of my favorite train journeys and far superior to taking the fast one.
Arriving in Beijing
Upon arriving in Beijing, prepare for an exciting mix of history and modernity. This capital city is home to many famous sites, and during this trip, I’d scheduled several important meetings with my North Korean colleagues where the Grand Reopening was discussed.
Personally I went to explore Qienmen as well as embark on some of the best North Korean cuisine that I have had in a good while.
Taking the K27 Train from Beijing to Dandong
After the meetings, it was time to take the K27 train from Beijing to Dandong. This leg of the journey was significant—not just for the travel, but for the views and experiences awaiting you. Dandong is located right on the border with North Korea, and the train ride offers magnificent views along the way.
I was personally again here for some meetings, although it did not detract from the fun elements of being in this fabulous place.
Street Food Dandong
I have often gone on about Dandong Street Food so will not wax too lyrical, but I truly everything from breakfast to BBQ. I also did some time on Moon Island not to mention just peering over the border to Sinuiju.
To Dalian and the end of the Phnom Penh to North Korea gig
Next on the journey was the pleasant 3-hour train ride to Dalian, covering 305.2 kilometers. Dalian is a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, stunning architecture, and fresh seafood. As you approach the city, admire the vistas of the sea and the famous Dalian coastline.
This alas was not beach weather with instead street snacks and dancing to the Vengaboys being the order of the day.
Is this the best Phnom Penh to North Korea route?
No, this is nether the best Phnom Penh to North Korea, nor Cambodia to North Korea route. The quickest way of course to do this would be to fly to Beijing. Other alternatives would be to travel up through Steung Treng and bypassing Thailand.
This is though in my mind perhaps the funnest way to do this journey, at least if yore a train geek like me.
You can check out my YPT tours to Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, China and of course North Korea via the links….
How many Kilometres from Phnom Penh to North Korea?
Phnom Penh to Poipet – 304 km
Poipet to Bangkok 250 km
Bangkok to Vientiane – 645 km
Vientiane to Kunming – 1646 km
Kunming to Shenzhen – 1479 km
Shenzhen to Hong Kong and back – 56 km
Shenzhen to Guangzhou – 292 km and back
Shenzhen to Guangzhou – 146 kn
Guangzhou to Beijing – 2,140 km
Beijing to Dandong – 840.8
Dandong to Dalian – 305.2 km
7958 km