Top 5 attractions in Phnom Penh
Located at the confluence of the Tonle Sap and Mekong rivers, Phnom Penh is a must-see destination when traveling to Cambodia. As the capital of the country, this city with its unique charm offers a true escape for its visitors.
To help you make the most of your visit to the Cambodian capital, here is a list of the 5 must-see places.
The Royal Palace
Located in the heart of the capital, along Samdech Sothearos Boulevard, the Royal Palace is considered the main attraction in Phnom Penh. Although it is the official residence of the King of Cambodia, part of the palace is open to the public.
Built in 1866, this palace is a magnificent example of Khmer architecture. Spread over approximately 16 hectares, the site is home to countless wonders waiting to be discovered.
Practical information :
Opening hours: Morning from 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM and afternoon from 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM.
Admission : 4.50 euros since January 2017.
Photography: Not allowed inside the buildings.
Dress code: Remember to cover your arms and legs before entering. T-shirts and pants are available for purchase at the entrance.
The Silver Pagoda
The Silver Pagoda, also known as Vat Preah Keo, is an important sanctuary that houses the royal ashes. It is located within the grounds of the Royal Palace, on its southern side. This sanctuary alone houses some of the country's most precious treasures.
Its silver floor, made of 5,000 tiles, is one of these curiosities, along with the life-size golden Buddha adorned with over 9,000 diamonds, including one weighing 25 carats.
The National Museum
Located to the north of the Royal Palace, the National Museum of Phnom Penh is easily recognizable by its ochre-colored building. Built starting in 1917 and inaugurated in 1918, this museum houses one of the most important collections of Khmer craftsmanship, with more than 14,000 pieces spread across four galleries. It is an interesting visit to discover the history of the Cambodian people.
Practical Information :
Opening hours: Every day from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Admission: $5 for children aged 10 to 17 and $10 for adults 18 and over.
Photography: Not allowed inside the museum. Permitted outside.
The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
The Tuol Sleng Museum, better known as the Genocide Museum, is one of the most visited places in the Cambodian capital. This former high school, turned into a detention center during Pol Pot's regime, is considered the largest detention and torture center in the country. It wasn't until 1979, following the liberation of the capital by the Vietnamese army, that this camp was transformed into a museum. Today, the site has been redeveloped to accommodate tourists. It is a striking but essential visit to understand the painful past of the Cambodian people.
The City markets
There are two main markets in the city: the Central Market and the Russian Market. The first, known as Phsar Thmey, is located under a large art-deco yellow structure. It is situated between the Royal Palace and the railway station. Built in 1935 and recently renovated, this building is divided into four wings, each housing specialized shops (electronics, shoes, clothing, butchery, and fish market). The second, the Russian Market or Tuol Tom Pong Market, is located to the south of the city, near the Toul Tom Pong Pagoda. It is home to many stalls offering a wide range of souvenirs at unbeatable prices.