Places to Visit in Phnom Penh, Tips For Your Trip

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What Places to Visit in Phnom Penh? Phnom Penh is located on the banks of Tonle Sap and Mekong River. It is the capital city of Cambodia which is once known as the “Pearl of Asia”.

Compared to other attractions in Cambodia, Phnom Penh attracts the tourists by its slower pace, more human scale and especially its French architecture. If you are wondering where to visit and what to do in Phnom Penh, this article will give you the answer.

Shopping at the Central Market

There are many shopping malls in Phnom Penh, but it is better to find real deals in the Central Market. It is also called Phsar Thmei, one of traditional markets in the city. Built in 20^th century, its design was affected by French architect a lot. If this is your first time to Phnom Penh, you should not miss this place. You will be impressed by its beautiful Art Deco structure and riveting interior dome. The market is the best place for you to find deals for jewelry and precious stones.

The Central Market in Phnom Penh- source: internet

Visiting the Royal Palace

The Royal Palace was built in 1866; therefore, most of its visible structures date back to the 20^th century. The Palace includes of the buildings: Throne Hall, Chanchhaya Pavilion, Hor Samran Phirun, Hor Samrith Phimean, Napoleon III Pavilion and Phochani Pavilion, Damnak Chan, Villa Kantha Bopha and Khemarin Palace. The visitors are only allowed to visit the Palace’s south and central compounds. In the northern compound is the Khemarin Palace where the King lives. The Palace looks gorgeous during day time; but it is more beautiful and impressive in the night.

Royal Palace of Cambodia- source: internet

Enjoy sunset by the river

The beauty of Tonle Sap and Mekong Rivers attracts many visitors. Walking on the western quay of the rivers with your friends or family would be a great choice; but it would be more interesting to enjoy the gorgeous sunset from the river. You will get better view if you see it from a cruise boat. Normally, you need to pay from $15 to $25 for a cruise. The boat will depart in the afternoon and you will get a chance to see traditional fishing villages and the graceful skyline.

Colorful houses in a floating village- source: internet

Visit Wat Phnom

Te Wat Phnom Penh is the oldest parts of Phnom Penh. The shrine was built by a wealthy widow on an artificial hill. In Cambodian’ minds, this is one of the most sacred place where they come to pray and make blessings. Inside the wat, there are different sacred stupas and monuments covering the beliefs of Hindu, Buddhist and also Confucian. So if you are interested in religious, this is a must place to go in Phnom Penh.

Wat Phnom- source: internet

Silver Pagoda

The Silver Pagoda, also known as Wat Preah Keo Morokat, is considered as the “Temple of the Emerald Buddha”. Because the pagoda’s floor is covered by more than 5000 silver tiles, it is called the Silver Pagoda. The Pagoda has an important role in Cambodia royalty. This is where the King listens to sermons and also where some Royal ceremonies take place. Inside the Silver Pagoda are valuable Buddhist and historical objects, especially the Emerald Buddha.