We explore the stunning Royal Palace complex, home to the Cambodian royal family and a symbol of the nation. And we continue the Wat Phnom Temple founded by Daun Penh (Grandma Penh), a wealthy widow who in 1372, retrieved from a river a log with five Buddha statues in it and ordered to elevate a piece of her property on which to build a temple to house the statues. Then, we go to Tuol Sleng, a former high school that the Khmer Rouge turned into a centre for interrogation, torture and death. After that, we travel out of town to the Killing Fields of Choeng Ek. Prisoners from Tuol Sleng followed this same route to their fate.
Pickup included
We explore the stunning Royal Palace complex, home to the Cambodian royal family and a symbol of the nation. We begin amid the beautiful royal gardens, landscaped with tropical plants and studded with gleaming spires. We enter the Throne Hall where the royal receptions are held and the Cambodian king's coronation took place. We then pass the Napoleon III Pavilion made from iron, a gift from the French emperor in the 19thcentury.We continue to the Silver Pagoda, named after the 5000 silver tiles covering the floor, each weighing 1kg. Inside are some of the country's most cherished treasures, including a life-size gold Buddha studded with 9584 diamonds, the largest weighing 25 carats.
The Wat Phnom Temple is a sanctuary founded by Daun Penh (Grandma Penh), a wealthy widow who in 1372, retrieved from a river a log with five Buddha statues in it and ordered to elevate a piece of her property on which to build a temple to house the statues. Later on, Grandma Penh and the villagers converted to build a temple on the top of the mountain and brought the four Buddha statues to the temple. While a standing statue of the goddess was placed in a shrine located on the eastern of the hill. Eventually, this became a sacred site and sanctuary where people would make blessings and pray.
Killing Fields of Choeng Ek, where prisoners from Tuol Sleng followed this same route to their fate is a reeducation center. An formerly Chinese cemetery, ChoengEk was turned into an extermination camp for political prisoners. The remains of 8985 people were exhumed from mass graves and are kept in a memorial stupa here. Despite the horrors of the past, it is a peaceful place to go and a tranquil spot to reflect on the tragic events that engulfed Cambodia and its people.
TuolSleng was a former high school that the Khmer Rouge turned into a centre for interrogation, torture and death. Today it is a museum of torture and serves to remind visitors of the terrible atrocities that came to pass in Cambodia. 17,000 people passed through the gates of this prison and only seven lived to tell the tale.
Independence Monument, built in 1958, and inaugurated in 1962 during the regime of Sangkum Reastr, this monument also serves as a proud testament to commemorate people who sacrificed their lives for the welfare of the country. The monument is captivating for its cool, serene atmosphere, which in turn makes it a much sought-after destination.
Dress code is required. Cover your shoulder and knee.
Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital of Cambodia, is a city rich in history, culture, and bustling markets. Known for its French colonial architecture, the Royal Palace, and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, it offers a unique blend of the old and the new, making it a compelling destination for travelers.
The Royal Palace is the official residence of the King of Cambodia. It features beautiful Khmer architecture and is a must-visit for its historical significance and stunning design.
Also known as S-21, this museum is a former school turned into a prison and torture center by the Khmer Rouge. It serves as a stark reminder of Cambodia's dark past.
Also known as Phsar Thmei, this market is a great place to shop for souvenirs, clothes, and local food. The Art Deco building is an architectural gem.
This Buddhist temple is the namesake and heart of the city. It is believed to be the site where the first pagoda was built in Phnom Penh.
This museum houses a vast collection of Khmer artifacts, providing a deep dive into Cambodia's rich history and culture.
A creamy coconut curry with fish or chicken, steamed in banana leaves.
Stir-fried beef with onions and a tangy lime-pepper dipping sauce.
Rice noodles topped with a fish-based gravy and fresh herbs.
Grilled pork with broken rice and pickled vegetables.
This is the dry season with pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Cambodian Riel (KHR)
GMT+7
230VV, 50HzHz
Phnom Penh is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious, especially at night and in crowded areas.
Phnom Penh Railway Station
Central Market Bus Station, Siem Reap Bus Station
Public buses are affordable but can be crowded and slow. Routes cover major areas of the city.
Available • Apps: PassApp, Grab
Car, Bike, Scooter
A large freshwater lake known for its floating villages and unique ecosystem.
A riverside town with a mix of French colonial architecture and traditional Khmer temples.
A peaceful island known for its silk weaving and rural landscapes.
Price varies by option