Plov Thmey a.k.a The Swinging Bridge or Swing Bridge stretches 86 meters over the Sangker River connecting the road to the Kampong Pil Pagoda on the other side. This beautifully worn and wobbly suspension bridge is constructed of tired bamboo slats and fraying hemp rope. To prevent plunging or being forced into the river below, there is a lose fence made of rotting and broken aluminum link, so you’ve got that going for you.
The bridge is narrow, just large enough for a motorbike, to which you must yield when on the bridge. The rule is that if you are walking on the bridge and a daring local on a motorbike approaches, you press yourself against the rusty fencing to let the motorbike pass. This rule also applies for scooter and bicycles. You would think the good-sized holes in the bamboo slats would preclude or at least deter such use, but within twenty minutes two motorbikes, and two bicycles took the challenge.
Walking across the bridge alone or with another pedestrian causes the bridge to swing noticeably, but gently. When you are pressed against the fencing with a motorbike passing behind you, it really gets moving. From the bridge, perhaps as you are precariously pasted to the edge waiting for traffic to pass, you get a fine view of the water under the bridge and may spy boats passing carrying cargo or fishing the depths. It is a welcome distraction from the traffic bumping along behind your back.
When you find yourself alone on the bridge its quite peaceful, if you are not afraid of heights. When you share the bridge with a motorbike the bouncing and swinging can be quite strong and a lot of fun. Having survived your crossing, you reach the Pagoda side where there are often street vendors selling cool beverages and cocos. It’s an opportunity gather your nerves before visiting the pagoda or making the journey back across.
The Swinging Bridge is about 8 km south from the center of Battambang town or an easy extension on to your trip to the Bamboo Train. The local tuktuk drivers are bemused by the interest of tourists in a rickety old bridge but know the place and are happy to rest in the shade while you cross the bridge when you come to it. A concrete bridge is nearing completion about 200 meters downstream and will likely replace Swinging Bridge in early 2020, so if you want to swing, go now.
Find it on Google Maps: Kampong Pil Suspension Bridge
GPS: 13.049107, 103.196419