Central Market of Phnom Penh

Also known as Phsar Thmei, meaning the "new market," the Central Market of Phnom Penh is one of the largest structures of its kind in all of Asia. It is the fifth largest market in the world. Dominating the city center of Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, it serves as a landmark for all its residents. For shopping enthusiasts wanting to explore Cambodian market products, this place remains an essential destination.

History

Built towards the end of the 1930s, the Central Market was the work of several international architects, including Jean Desbois, Louis Chauchon, and Wladimir Kandaouroff. The market was constructed on an old lake fed by the monsoon rains. For a long time, flooding around the market posed a real problem for the local administration.

During the Franco-Thai war, the market was bombed by Thai aircraft, causing significant damage. As a result, the two wings and the central dome were rebuilt between July 2009 and 2011, with the project funded by the French Development Agency.

Discovering the Central Market of Phnom Penh

Entirely painted in yellow, the Central Market of Phnom Penh is a large monument featuring a giant 50-meter diameter dome and four 50-meter long wings. These parts of the market offer vast aisles with numerous stands and stalls selling goods. The central dome is home to luxury goods and various trinkets.

The original architecture of the market was inspired by the work of French architect Louis Chauchon. It is an Art Deco building, characteristic of the French colonial period during which it was constructed. The architecture resembles a large cross, with four wings dominated by a central dome.

Still operational since its creation, this market houses many impressive shops, boutiques, and stalls. Nearly every type of product found on Cambodian markets can be found here. Vendors are organized into four main categories based on the products they offer.

The area under the central dome is dedicated to shops selling fashion accessories such as jewelry, glasses, and watches. The gold and silver jewelry is known for its high-quality design and relatively low prices.

On the western side, just across from Monivong Boulevard, the market is also served by restaurants and food vendors. The market is very airy and is recognized as a place of relaxation and respite for the local city dwellers. During your visit, you can try popular Cambodian dishes, such as Amok Trey, which is fish fillet covered in spices and wrapped in a banana leaf.

Each of the four wings features clothing, shoes, electronics, butchers, and fishmongers. Some vendors selling second-hand goods, stationery, and souvenirs have set up their stalls here.

At the entrance to the market, located on the eastern side of the building and around the market, you will encounter souvenir vendors trying to sell you t-shirts or postcards. It’s easy to buy traditional items like the krama scarf or brightly colored fabrics for sarongs, which are considered quintessential Cambodian souvenirs. You’ll likely see tourists wearing these items during your visit to the country.

How to get there

To get there from the city center, you can take bus #1 and get off at the bus station southwest of the market.

To the northwest, there is also a taxi station serving major Cambodian cities such as Battambang, Siem Reap, Kampong Cham, or Kratié. From these cities, you can hire a taxi service to reach the market.

Alternatively, any tuk-tuk can take you there from your hotel.

Opening hours and prices

The market is open every day from 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM.