Phnom Penh

The capital of Cambodia, Phnom Penh is the largest city in the country. It is a charming city, very relaxing, and rich in culture and civilization. It serves as the gateway to the country, where one can breathe in the exotic blend of Asian and French influences.

History

Founded in 1434, Phnom Penh derives its name from the Wat Phnom hill, or the hill of the temple. Formerly known as Wat Phnom Daun Penh, this hill is named after a wealthy widow called Daun Penh. In 1373, she had religious buildings such as temples constructed on the hill to house five Buddha statues.

Under French Indochinese administration, the city entered a glorious era. In the 1920s, it was nicknamed the "Pearl of Southeast Asia." Since that period, it has become the capital of Cambodia.  

During the civil war instigated by the Khmer Rouge in 1975, many inhabitants of the city were executed or forced to leave their homes, leaving the city deserted for over three years. They could only return after the arrival of the Vietnamese. On January 7, 1979, the Khmer Rouge were expelled from the city. During these turbulent times, many infrastructures were destroyed, looted, or abandoned.

To promote the tourism sector in the region, the local administration decided, in 1998, to open three border crossings.

Geography

Occupying a vast area of 678.46 km², Phnom Penh is located in the southeastern part of Cambodia. It is situated at the confluence of three major rivers: the Mekong, the Tonlé Sap, and the Bassac. The Mekong River originates from the Tibetan Plateau and passes through the city.

Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh is the economic crossroads of Cambodia. It is the commercial, diplomatic, political, and cultural center of the country. Most of Cambodia's universities are located here. Since 2005, it has seen a great period of development in real estate. Numerous developers have settled here, and several large buildings of over 30 stories have been constructed in the trendiest neighborhoods.

In 2007, the population of Phnom Penh was 2,009,264, representing 14% of Cambodia’s total population. According to government data, the average population density is 5,200 people per km². It is home to nearly 295,358 households, with over 96% being Buddhist. Its inhabitants are well-known worldwide for their great hospitality, one of the key qualities of the Cambodian people. The local language is Khmer, though English and French are commonly spoken in tourist areas. Due to its geographical location at the confluence of three rivers, Phnom Penh breathes within a freshwater ecosystem. This allows the city and its surroundings to benefit from environmental conditions favorable to prosperous agriculture and breathtaking natural landscapes.

To truly enjoy the local architecture, a visit to the city is essential during your trip to Cambodia. Its architectural heritage is identifiable through both traditional and European colonial styles. Pagodas, palaces, and temples reflect the traditional style, while most administrative and commercial buildings follow a more Western style.

Phnom Penh is also the cultural capital of Cambodia. It is home to several cultural, historical, and natural attractions. To admire the city’s old architectural style, the most important sites include the Royal Palace, the French Embassy, and, about forty kilometers from the capital in the heights of Oudong, the ruins of Vihear Preah Ath Roes. The Silver Pagoda, the National Museum, and Choeung Ek (famously known as the "killing fields") also await visitors, offering insight into the poignant history of the city during the Khmer Rouge regime. The Cambodian capital is also home to a large collection of Khmer sculptures, which can be admired at Wat Phnom, the Independence Monument, the graceful National Library, or further afield in Oudong, at the Ta San Mosque.

As Cambodia's largest tourist city, Phnom Penh is bustling with service providers offering accommodations. Recently, the number of visitors and tourist establishments has significantly increased. The city boasts a large number of hotels, up to five stars, guesthouses, and international restaurants.

Climate

Phnom Penh has a tropical hot and humid climate. It experiences two seasons: a dry season from December to May and a wet season that lasts over 6 months from June to November.

Temperatures range from 18°C to 38°C, with April being the hottest month. From May to October, monsoon winds blow from the southwest, bringing humid and cool winds from the Gulf of Thailand and the Indian Ocean.

How to get there?

Airplane

The largest airport in the country, Pochentong, is Phnom Penh’s international airport. It is located 7 km west of the city center. Air travel is one of the most popular transportation methods for foreigners visiting the city.

Bus

Most major highways in Cambodia pass through the Phnom Penh region. These roads connect the country with its neighbors, such as Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. Therefore, it is possible to take a bus or coach from Thailand to reach the city.

Boat

An express boat network connects Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Depending on the speed of the boat and water depth, the journey can take just 5 hours. This is a popular transportation option.

From Vietnam, following the Mekong Delta, it is also possible to reach Phnom Penh by boat. Typically, boats depart from Chau Doc at 8:00 AM and arrive in Phnom Penh around 1:00 PM.

How to get around?

Motorbike-taxi or Motodop

Motorbike taxis are the fastest form of public transport for getting around the city. There are many of them, and some even approach tourists walking on the sidewalk.

Taxi

Taxis in Phnom Penh serve the city 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 

Bicycle

Phnom Penh’s "cyclo" are bicycle rickshaws. They are more comfortable and relaxing than motorbike taxis.

Tuk-tuk

Tuk-tuks are one of the most convenient and economical transportation options for exploring the city.

Bus

Since 2015, the city has been served by three public bus lines following Monivong Boulevard, Mao Tse Tong, and the Confederation of Russia. Typically, buses arrive at each stop every 10 to 15 minutes.

What to do in Phnom Penh?

• Explore Wat Phnom Hill and visit the sacred temples to admire the Buddhist figures presented through statues.
• The Royal Palace, a perfect example of traditional architecture, awaits you.
• Visit Choeung Ek to learn about the darkest part of Cambodia’s history during the Khmer Rouge regime.
• Visit the ruins of Vihear Preah Ath Roes.