Phnom Penh, a city rich in history, culture, and vibrant energy is nothing less than a delightful surprise for first time visitors. Located at the meeting point of Mekong, Tonlé Sap and Bassac Rivers, Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh is a captivating mix of Buddhist wats, French colonial architecture, bustling casinos, vibrant nightlife, and lively local markets. For travellers eager to explore Southeast Asia, Phnom Penh is a destination that offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of Cambodia.
Here are the top 6 places to visit in Phnom Penh in Cambodia
Table of Contents
1.THE ROYAL PALACE AND SILVER PAGODA
The Royal Palace, an iconic symbol of Cambodia, is a must-visit for anyone coming to Phnom Penh. This complex serves as the residence of the King of Cambodia and is a stunning example of traditional Khmer architecture. The palace grounds are meticulously maintained. Moreover, the beautifully manicured gardens, golden spires, and intricate carvings reflect the grandeur of Cambodian royal history.
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Within the palace grounds lies the Silver Pagoda, also known as Wat Preah Keo Morakot. The pagoda is named for its floor, which is made up of more than 5,000 silver tiles. It weighs over five tons in total. Inside, visitors can marvel at a life-sized gold Buddha adorned with thousands of diamonds, along with many other priceless artifacts. The Silver Pagoda is a place of worship and a repository of cultural treasures.
2. WAT PHNOM
Another must visit place in Phnom Penh is Wat Phnom. This is the temple from which Phnom Penh derives its name. It is located in a serene and picturesque hilltop that is one of the city’s most significant landmarks. Legend has it that the temple was built in 1372 to house four statues of Buddha that had washed ashore on the banks of the Mekong River.
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The temple, set amidst lush gardens, offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. The central sanctuary is beautifully decorated. The site is often filled with locals and tourists alike who come to make offerings and prayers. Wat Phnom also offers a great vantage point to view the city, making it a favourite spot for visitors.
3. CENTRAL MARKET (PHSAR THMEI)
The local markets in any region serve as a genuine representation of the area’s lifestyle and culture. A visit to Phnom Penh’s Central Market, known as Phsar Thmei, is essential when in the capital city of Cambodia. Situated within an impressive Art Deco structure, this market is a vibrant center. You can discover a wide array of items, including fresh produce, street food, jewellery, clothing, and various souvenirs.
The structure of the market is noteworthy, featuring a magnificent dome and extensive wings that accommodate thousands of vendors. Engaging in bargaining is an integral aspect of the shopping experience. Therefore, feel free to negotiate for favourable prices. Central Market serves not only as a shopping destination but also as an opportunity to immerse yourself in the daily rhythm of Phnom Penh.
4. TUOL SLENG GENOCIDE MUSEUM
A visit to Phnom Penh is incomplete without acknowledging the darker chapters of Cambodia’s history. The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, formerly a high school, was used as a prison and torture center by the Khmer Rouge regime from 1975 to 1979. Known as S-21, this site now serves as a museum to educate visitors about the atrocities committed during that period.
The museum provides a haunting and sobering experience, with exhibits that include photographs of the victims, instruments of torture, and the preserved cells where prisoners were held. It is a place of reflection and remembrance, reminding visitors of the resilience of the Cambodian people.
5. THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF CAMBODIA
You cannot miss the National Museum of Cambodia in Phnom Penh. The museum is home to the world’s finest collection of Khmer sculptures, ceramics, and ethnographic objects from prehistoric, pre-Angkorian, Angkorian and post Angkorian periods. Some of the highlights include the eight-armed statue of Vishnu from 6th or 7th century, the statue of Shiva, and the statue of Jayavarman VII seated with his head bowed slightly in a meditative pose.
The graceful terracotta structure of traditional design with an inviting courtyard garden will draw your attention in no time.
6. VISIT FISHING COMMUNITY AT TONLE SAP LAKE
Tonle Sap is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia & a UNESCO biosphere reserve. It is situated almost in the middle of Cambodia. This lake is well-known for its abundance in fish. It is the fourth largest source of freshwater fish in the world. The fishing community resides and flourishes by the lake.
A boat excursion to observe the unique floating lifestyle of the local fishing communities is an experience to remember. This realm is entirely distinct, where the vastness of the freshwater lake may not astonish you. However, the remarkable resilience of these fishing communities, thriving in the water for generations, is truly extraordinary. The communities possess their own schools, places of worship, dining establishments, retail outlets, and more. They are adequately prepared to sustain their lives by the lake and to uphold their means of livelihood.
WHERE TO STAY IN PHNOM PENH
There are multiple accommodation options to choose from based on your budget in Phnom Penh. Whether you seek an economical hotel or a lavish spa and resort, Phnom Penh offers a wide range of excellent accommodations.
WHEN TO VISIT PHNOM PENH
The best time to visit Phnom Penh is between November and February. During this period you will experience low rainfall and still enjoy warm temperatures. However, the climate in Cambodia is generally hot and humid all throughout the year.
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