Things to do in Phnom Penh
Here are some travel recommendations for visiting the main attractions and exploring the various activities in Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia. Whether you’re interested in historical sites or cultural experiences, Phnom Penh has something for everyone.
Independence Monument
1. Independence Monument
- The Independence Monument in Phnom Penh represents Cambodia’s freedom from French colonial rule. It was built in 1958 to honor the country’s independence in 1953. The monument’s design is inspired by the central tower of Angkor Wat, an important cultural and historical site in Cambodia.
- Visitors can see the monument anytime because it’s in a public area and there’s no fee to enter. The best places to see and take pictures of the monument are the parks around it or the streets nearby.
- Complementary activities include visiting nearby attractions like Wat Botum, a Buddhist temple, and exploring the nearby Tonle Bassac Riverfront for a relaxed walk.
2. Wat Phnom Daun Penh
- Wat Phnom is a significant temple in Phnom Penh. It is situated on a hill and is surrounded by lush greenery. The temple holds religious significance for locals as it is believed to be the founding place of the city.
- Visitors should dress modestly and take off their shoes before entering the temple to show respect. It is important to behave quietly and avoid causing disturbances while inside the temple complex.
- Highlights in the temple complex include the main sanctuary, the central stupa, and the many shrines and statues. Nearby, visitors can visit the Central Market for local crafts and souvenirs or try traditional Cambodian food at nearby restaurants.
Wat Phnom Daun Penh
Royal Palace
3. Royal Palace
- The Royal Palace is a large complex with traditional Khmer architecture, intricate gold decoration, and historical significance as the official home of the King of Cambodia. Important buildings include the Throne Hall, the Silver Pagoda, and the Royal Offices.
- Visitors must dress modestly, covering their shoulders and wearing long pants or skirts. Some areas of the palace complex may have restrictions on photography.
- A recommended tour duration is approximately 1-2 hours, and you can take guided tours to learn more about the palace’s history and architecture. Other attractions nearby are the Silver Pagoda and the National Museum of Cambodia.
4. Silver Pagoda
- The Silver Pagoda, also called Wat Preah Keo Morakot, is a beautiful temple in the Royal Palace complex. It is famous for its silver floor tiles and collection of valuable Buddha statues and artifacts.
- Visitors should go early in the morning to avoid crowds and see the pagoda’s detailed architecture in the best lighting. To move around the pagoda, follow the designated paths and show respect for the temple’s sacredness.
- You can also explore the Royal Palace grounds and visit nearby markets or restaurants to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Silver Pagoda
National Museum of Cambodia
5. National Museum of Cambodia
- The National Museum of Cambodia has a large collection of Khmer art and historical artifacts. Its main purpose is to protect and showcase Cambodia’s cultural heritage through sculptures, ceramics, and ethnographic objects. The collection includes more than 14,000 items from different time periods, including before, during, and after the Khmer Empire.
- A recommended duration for a visit is approximately 1-2 hours to explore the main exhibits and galleries. You can enhance your experience by using audio guides or joining guided tours.
- Nearby, you can find local restaurants and cafes to eat at. If you enjoy shopping, there are also artisanal shops nearby where you can find authentic Cambodian crafts and souvenirs.
6. Russian Market (Phsar Toul Tum Poung)
- The Russian Market is famous for its lively atmosphere. It has a variety of products like fabrics, crafts, and souvenirs. Bargaining is common, and visitors are encouraged to explore the market’s diverse offerings.
- Recommended things to look for include traditional textiles from Cambodia, crafts made by hand, and unique souvenirs for a memorable shopping experience. Exploring the market involves going into different sections and talking to local vendors.
- Nearby attractions include exploring the neighborhood to find local restaurants, street food vendors, and getting a taste of the daily life of Phnom Penh residents.
Russian Market (Phsar Toul Tum Poung)
Central Market (Phsar Thmey)
7. Central Market (Phsar Thmey)
- Phnom Penh’s Central Market, also called Phsar Thmei, is a historic landmark with a beautiful dome and a wide variety of goods. The market has traditional Cambodian clothing, fresh food stalls, and jewelry.
- The market is open every day. Visitors can check out different sections like jewelry, electronics, and food. There are also nearby cafes and restaurants where you can try local food and take a break after exploring all day.
8. Choeung Ek Genocidal Center
- This site is historically important because it was one of the places where people were killed during the Khmer Rouge regime. Visitors are expected to dress and behave respectfully, and guided tours are offered to learn about the site’s history and show respect to the victims.
- A trip to the Choeung Ek Genocidal Center usually lasts 1-2 hours. There are also other memorials and museums nearby, like the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, that provide more information about the Khmer Rouge period.
Choeung Ek Genocidal Center
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
9. Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
- Formerly a high school that was used as a prison during the Khmer Rouge regime, the museum is a powerful reminder of Cambodia’s troubled history. Visitors should behave respectfully and follow any rules about taking photos and choosing tour options.
- The museum visit usually takes 1-2 hours. Important areas to see are the prison cells and exhibitions that show the terrible things that happened. You can also visit nearby sites or memorials to learn more about the Khmer Rouge era and its impact on Cambodia’s history.