The vibrant and bustling city of Phnom Penh is the heart of Cambodia. This sprawling capital, beside the Tonlé Sap and Mekong Rivers, perfectly blends ancient traditions and modern charm. Wide boulevards and narrow alleys fill the city where old and new collide.
The Royal Palace is a top attraction, but those interested in Cambodia’s history should visit the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek and the Tuol Sleng Museum, which reveal the dark past under Khmer Rouge rule. The National Museum of Angkor is also here, making Phnom Penh a vital stop before heading to Angkor Wat.
In this guide, we will explore the top places to visit in Phnom Penh for an unforgettable trip.
Top 15 Places to Visit in Phnom Penh
1. Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda
The Royal Palace, a Khmer-style masterpiece built in 1866, is a must-see among Phnom Penh attractions. It houses the King of Cambodia and hosts royal ceremonies. Explore the stunning Throne Hall and the tranquil gardens. Also, do not miss the Silver Pagoda, with its floor of 5,329 solid silver tiles, and discover its priceless artefacts and treasures.
2. Cambodia National Museum
Immerse yourself in Cambodia's rich history at the Cambodia National Museum, a top entry on the list of things to do in Cambodia, Phnom Penh. This museum, in a traditional Khmer building from 1920, showcases over 1,800 artefacts. Admire the Vishnu head from Angkor Wat, the exquisite Angkorian collection, and pre-Angkorian artefacts. A must-visit for history and art lovers.
3. Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a key among things to see and do in Phnom Penh, was once Khmer Rouge's Security Prison S-21. Between 1975 and 1978, over 17,000 people were tortured here, many of whom were Khmer Rouge members. The museum displays chilling photos and records, providing a stark reminder of the regime's brutality.
4. Sisowath Quay
Take a stroll along Sisowath Quay, one of the most beautiful places in Phnom Penh. This 3-kilometre riverside promenade has shops, hotels, restaurants, and cafes. Enjoy a tuk-tuk ride from the Royal Palace to see its beauty. Do not miss the Royal Palace, National Museum, Ounalom Monastery, Elephant Bar, and floating restaurants along Sisowath Quay.
5. Phnom Penh Central Market (Phsar Thmey)
Explore Phnom Penh Central Market, a must-see among places to visit in Phnom Penh. Built in 1937, this Art Deco market features a huge yellow dome and four wings. Wander through shops selling clothing, jewellery, gemstones, souvenirs, and food. Don’t miss the gold and silver jewellery stores, and be sure to sample the local delicacies available here.
6. Wat Langka
Discover the colourful Wat Langka, a Buddhist temple located in the heart of Phnom Penh. Built in 1970, this temple was initially used to store sacred Buddhist scriptures and writings. It is one of the few monuments that survived the Khmer Rouge era and is a popular attraction for its vibrant architecture and collection of ancient Buddhist texts. Also, learn about 34 Must-See Destinations in Cambodia.
7. Children Park Koh Pich
Escape the hustle and bustle of Phnom Penh at Children Park Koh Pich. This amusement park offers colourful ways to have fun, including a rollercoaster, roller skating area, and booths where you can try bursting balloons with darts. While it may not be as extravagant as Disneyland, it provides a great opportunity for people to watch and enjoy life with friends and family.
8. Wat Moha Montrey
Visit Wat Moha Montrey, a must-see among Phnom Penh attractions on Sihanouk Boulevard. Once a rice and corn storage area, it’s now a famous temple. Admire the red doors, golden designs, and spacious interiors. Explore the 44 buildings, including monasteries, schools, libraries, stupas, and residential areas. This beautiful temple is a highlight of Cambodia’s heritage.
9. Mekong Island (Koh Dach)
Escape the city and discover Mekong Island, also known as Koh Dach, a top choice among things to do in Phnom Penh. Located 15 kilometres north, this tranquil island features rice paddies, farms, and fruit orchards. Renowned for silk weaving, pottery, and woodcarving, explore its villages and beautiful surroundings. Enjoy a boat cruise at sunset, where the rivers meet.
10. Phsar Toul Tum Poung
Phsar Toul Tum Poung, also known as the Russian Market, is a must-visit among things to see and do in Phnom Penh. Famous for affordable Russian souvenirs, it offers colourful lanterns, carved statues, scarves, bags, and DVDs. Despite being crowded and hot, its vibrant atmosphere and unique goods make up for it. Don’t miss the delicious local coffee from the cafes.
11. Ounalom Monastery
Ounalom Monastery, one of Phnom Penh's original monasteries from the 14th century, was founded in 1422 by King Ponyea Yat. It serves as the chief Buddhist monk's residence today. The monastery has 44 buildings, including temples, schools, and libraries. Despite damage during the Khmer Rouge era, it has been restored. Highlights include a Pali inscription and a stupa with Buddha's eyebrow.
12. Independence Monument
The Independence Monument stands at the intersection of Sihanouk and Norodom Boulevards in Phnom Penh. Built in 1953, it celebrates Cambodia's independence from French rule. The sandstone structure, designed like an Angkorian temple, features nagas (multi-headed snakes). It also serves as a memorial to Cambodia's war dead. Nearby, Wat Botum Park houses the Cambodia-Vietnam Friendship Monument.
13. Temples of Oudong
The Temples of Oudong, 43 kilometres north of Phnom Penh, are worth the trip for stunning views from Phnom Preah Reach Throap Hill. The main attraction is the Vihear Preah Ath Roes temple with its 20-meter-high Buddha. The site features temples and stupas from the 17th century to modern times, including the intricately decorated Ang Doung and Mak Proum stupas. Also learn about 8 Stunning Places to Visit in Siem Reap.
14. Killing Fields of Choeung Ek
The Killing Fields of Choeung Ek is a stark reminder of the Khmer Rouge's brutality. Between 1975 and 1979, an estimated 17,000 people were murdered here. The site features 129 mass graves and a memorial stupa with over 8,000 skulls. Visiting offers a sobering insight into Cambodia's tragic past.
15. Phnom Chisor
Phnom Chisor, 70 kilometres south of Phnom Penh, is a temple on a 133-meter hilltop built in the 11th century by King Suryavarman I. Dedicated to Vishnu and Shiva, it offers stunning views of the green farming plots and rice fields below. Visit early to avoid climbing up the steep stairs in the scorching afternoon heat.
Documents Required to Visit Phnom Penh
Before planning your vacation in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, ensure you have the following documents:
· Valid passport with at least six months' validity from the date of travel.
· Cambodia Entry Visa
· Letter of invitation (if required)
· Proof of accommodation
· Travel itinerary
· Proof of sufficient financial means
· Travel Insurance for Cambodia
Visa Process to Visit Phnom Penh
Applying for a Cambodia e-visa is easy for Indians. Follow these steps:
1. Visit the official Cambodia e-Visa website.
2. Click "Application" on the top menu and complete security verification.
3. Fill out the visa form with your details.
4. Upload required documents like a passport scan and photo.
5. Review your application and correct any errors.
6. Pay the visa fee with a debit or credit card.
7. After payment, your application will be processed.
8. Print the approved visa.
Alternatively, you can get a Visa upon arrival at Phnom Penh airport. At customs, present your documents, answer questions, and get your passport stamped.
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