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Famous Landmarks in Phnom Penh

Famous Landmarks in Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh Cambodia Travel Guide

Iconic Landmarks

Must-visit sites with profound historical and cultural context.

The Royal Palace complex serves as the official residence of the King. The Silver Pagoda, within the premises, showcases precious Buddha statues and a floor of 5,000 silver tiles. Wat Phnom, a temple on an artificial hill, signifies The Pearl of asia's legendary founding. Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Choeung Ek Genocidal Centre serve as stark memorials to the Khmer Rouge era.

Visitor Information

  • The Official palace & Silver Pagoda: Hours 7:30-11:00 AM, 2:00-5:00 PM. Fee US$10. Official guides available. Dress modestly (shoulders and knees must be covered).
  • Wat Phnom: Hours 7:00 AM-6:30 PM. Fee US$1. Enjoy city views. Watch for monkeys.
  • Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21): Hours 8:00 AM-5:00 PM. Fee US$5 entry, US$5 for audio guide. Audio guide recommended. Maintain respect. No selfies.
  • Choeung Ek Genocidal Centre: Hours 7:30 AM-5:30 PM. Fee US$3 entry, US$3 for audio guide. Audio guide offers narratives. A somber, reflective experience. Book tours via GetYourGuide.

Insider Tips

Best Viewing & Photography

  • Royal Palace: Visit in morning to avoid heat/crowds. Photography restricted inside Silver Pagoda.
  • Wat Phnom: Climb for city views. Be aware of monkeys.
  • Tuol Sleng/Choeung Ek: Quiet, respectful demeanor. Avoid selfies. Allow ample time for reflection. No photographs of monks without permission.
  • Sunsets over Mekong River: Stunning from Riverside promenade or a river cruise.

Less Crowded Times

  • Royal Palace: Early morning, immediately after opening.
  • Tuol Sleng/Choeung Ek: Early am or late pm for impactful visits.
  • Phsar Kandal: Authentic local market experience, fewer tourists.

Explore Phnom Penh's cultural richness with GetYourGuide.

Museums & Art Spaces

  • National Museum of Cambodia: Houses world's finest Khmer art from Angkorian period. Impressive sculptures, ceramics, bronze. Leave 1-2 hours.
  • ARTISANS ANGKOR (Phnom Penh Branch): Showcases traditional Khmer crafts (stone/wood carving, lacquerware, silk weaving). Supports skill preservation.
  • Private Art Galleries: In BKK1/Russian Market areas. Exhibit contemporary Cambodian art. Support local artists.

Cultural Performance Venues

  • Sovanna Phum Art Association:

    Offers traditional Khmer dance, shadow puppet performances. Experience theater and dance heritage.

  • Cambodian Living Arts (CLA):

    Supports classic arts. Sometimes hosts performances, workshops. Check schedule.

  • Chaktomuk Theatre:

    Riverside national theater. Hosts various performances, concerts, cultural events.

Historical Sites

Phnom Penh's history extends beyond its recent tragic past, encompassing ancient kingdoms and colonial influence.

Architectural Heritage

  • French Colonial Architecture

    Many buildings in Daun Penh (Central Market, Post Office Square, Monivong Blvd). Walking tours available.

  • Art Deco

    Central Market (Phsar Thmey) is a prominent example of Art Deco architecture.

  • Traditional Khmer Architecture

    Visible in The Royal residence, Silver Pagoda, various wats.

  • Wat Ounalom

    Most important wat in The City of four faces, center of Cambodian Buddhism. Headquarters of Mohanikay order. Peaceful atmosphere.

  • Wat Langka

    Significant temple, peaceful ambiance and the historical weight of as a center for Buddhist learning.

  • Phnom Penh Railway Station

    Historical railway building. Glimpse into Cambodia's early industrial development.

Memorials & Monuments

Commemorations of independence and figures. Independence Monument stands at a major intersection, striking when lit at night.

Revered Leaders

Preah Norodom Sihanouk Statue honors the previous King. A revered figure in Cambodian history. Stands near Independence Monument.

Friendship Monuments

Vietnamese-Cambodian Friendship Monument recognizes the alliance, especially liberation from Khmer Rouge.

Natural Attractions

While a metropolitan center, Phnom Penh offers some lush areas and riverine beauty.

  • Riverside Park (Sisowath Quay): A long, landscaped promenade along the Tonle Sap and Mekong rivers. Popular for walks, exercise, relaxation.
  • Wat Phnom Park: The green space encircling the temple hill offers a pleasant environment for a stroll. You will often see monkeys here.
  • River Confluence Views: The confluence of the Mekong river, Tonle Sap, and Bassac rivers offers scenic views, notably from the Riverside promenade or during a sunset river cruise.

Hidden Gems

Venture beyond the main tourist circuit to discover The City of four faces's lesser-known charms.

Koh Dach Silk Island

Short ferry ride across Mekong. Glimpse traditional village life. Known for silk weaving, farming. Rent a bicycle to explore. Book a tour via GetYourGuide.

Phsar Kandal Local Market

Bustling local market mainly for the local population. Authentic everyday Cambodian commerce. Fewer tourists. Offers a true local experience.

Bassac Lane

Charming alleyway with trendy bars, restaurants. Sophisticated nightlife alternative to main riverside strip. Popular with expats and locals.

Local Insights & Beyond

Street 240 Area

Charming boutiques, cafes, NGOs. Pleasant for strolls, just looking, coffee.

Explore unique local finds

Royal University of Fine Arts RUFA

Catch a glimpse of student life. Inquire about public performances or exhibitions.

Day Trips: Oudong & Phnom Chisor

Oudong: Former capital, 40 km NW. Stupas, temple ruins, scenic hill. Phnom Chisor: Ancient Khmer temple on hilltop, 1.5-2 hrs S. Panoramic views.

Unique Photo Opportunities

Sunsets over Mekong from Riverside or cruise. Deco Central Market, Royal Palace grandeur, French colonial buildings. Capture diverse architecture.

Parks and Gardens

Green spaces within the city provide respite.

Riverside Park Sisowath Quay

  • Long, landscaped promenade along Tonle Sap and Mekong rivers.
  • Popular for walks, exercise, relaxation (mornings, evenings).
  • Scenic views of river confluence.

Scenic & Water Features

Views of the river and boat tours are natural draws.

River Confluence Views

  • Confluence of Mekong, Tonle Sap, Bassac rivers.
  • Scenic views from Riverside promenade or sunset river cruise.
  • Preah Sihanouk Garden near Independence Monument offers a quiet respite.
  • No major wildlife viewing or geological features within city limits. No beaches.

Experiencing Authentic Phnom Penh

Beyond the major landmarks, engage with the local lifestyle in markets, explore quieter neighborhoods, and uncover hidden gems.

These encounters enrich your visit.