Expert Private Guided Tour and learn about the Khmer Rouge’s
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Expert Private Guided Tour and learn about the Khmer Rouge’s

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4h - 6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy comprehensive private touring with a private guide and driver visit Phnom Penh Main Attractions.

Learn about Cambodia's more recent history during the Khmer Rouge's horrific crimes at Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former high school that the Khmer Rouge turned into a center for interrogation, torture and death. 17,000 people passed through the gates of this prison and only seven lived to tell the tale.

Visit to the Choeung Ek Genocidal Center (Killing Field). Choeung Ek 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.

After the tour of the two mains attractions, we then continue trip to the five locations, such as, Wat Phnom, The Statue of King Father Norodom Sihanouk, the Independence Monument, then Wat Ounalom and Central Market.

Available options

Expert Private Guided Tour and learn about the Khmer Rouge’s

Pickup included

What's included

VAT and all taxes and service charge
Professional Licensed English-Speaking guide
All entrance fees at places listed above
Private transportation air-conditioned vehicle with experiences safe driver
03 bottles of mineral water per person per day

Detailed itinerary

1

This city was once considered one of the most beautiful in Orient, and despite its recent turbulent history it still retains a colonial charm.

2
Stop 2

Today, meet your personal guide and driver and drive at your hotel lobby.

You will then have the option to learn of the Khmer Rouge's horrific crimes at Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, the guide would divulge in the backstory and history of the museum in depth. In 1975 Tuol Svay Prey High School was taken over by Pol Pot's security forces and turned into a prison known as Security Prison 21 (S-21). It soon became the largest such center of detention and torture in the country. More than 17,000 people held at S-21 were taken to the extermination camp at Choeung Ek to be executed; detainees who died during torture were buried in mass graves in the prison ground. Room after room the museum displays photographs of men, women and children covering the walls from floor to ceiling; virtually all the people pictured were later killed.

3
Stop 3

Next, you’ll continue to visit the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek Genocide Center (16 km south of Phnom Penh), you’ll be accompanied by a guide to inform about the history of the center. Between 1975 and 1978 about 17,000 men, women, children and infants (including nine westerners) detained and tortured at S-21 prison were transported to the extermination camp of Choeung Ek. They were often bludgeoned to death to avoid wasting precious bullets. Fragments of human bone and bits of cloth are scattered around the disinterred pits. Over 8,000 skulls, arranged by sex and age, are visible behind the clear glass panels of the Memorial Stupa, which was erected in 1988.

4
Stop 4

Next, continue visit the city's namesake, Wat Phnom. Located on one of the few hills in this pancake-flat capital, the first pagoda was originally built in 1373 to house Buddha statues discovered in the Mekong by a woman named Penh. This gives us the modern name of the city, Phnom Penh or Hill of Penh. Cambodians come to the shrine to pray for luck in love and life, employment and exams, so there it is always a bustling place.

5

The Statue of King Father Norodom Sihanouk is a large Bronze Memorial. It is located in the Independent Square in the Centre of Phnom Penh.

6
Stop 6

The Independence Monument in Phnom Penh, capital of Cambodia, was built in 1958 to memorialize Cambodia's independence from France in 1953. It stands on the intersection of Norodom Boulevard and Sihanouk Boulevard in the centre of the city. It is in the form of a lotus-shaped stupa, of the style seen at the Khmer temple at Banteay Srei and other Khmer historical sites. The Independence Monument was designed by the Cambodian architect Vann Molyvann. It stands 37 meters tall. During national celebrations, The Independence Monument is the center of activity. A ceremonial flame on the interior pedestal is often lit by a royal or high official on these occasions, and floral tributes line the stairs. Every year, The Independence Monument is visited by foreign tourists and locals alike. Behind the monument is the Norodom Sihanouk Memorial, constructed in 2013.

7
Stop 7

Wat Ounalom is another of Phnom Penh's five original monasteries (1422). it housed the Institute Bouddhique and library. On the riverfront about 250 meters north of the Royal Palace, facing the Tonle Sap River near the Royal Palace, this pagoda serves as the headquarters for one of Cambodia‘s most revered Buddhist patriarchs . Ounalom Pagoda, Phnom Penh is one of the major tourist attractions in Phnom Penh. With respect to the numerous pagodas, parks, monuments and museums, the city of Phnom Penh in Cambodia is an idea destination for the vacationers. A visit to the Ounalom Pagoda, Phnom Penh will render a pleasurable experience to your trip to this city.

8
Stop 8

The impressive Central Market is one a city landmark. Originally completed by the French in 1937, this striking structure is known as Psar Thmei in Khmer or New Market. The huge dome is wonderfully ventilated, a testament to the design, and this market is loaded with anything and everything available in Cambodia. Buy with caution, as this market has a reputation for overcharging or 'shaving your head' as Cambodians like to call it.

What's not included

Meals other than specified as included

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Phnom Penh

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.

Top Attractions

Royal Palace

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.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours 10 USD

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

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.

Historical 1-2 hours 5 USD

Central Market

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.

Market 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary

Wat Phnom

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.

Religious 30 minutes 1 USD

National Museum of Cambodia

This museum houses a vast collection of Khmer artifacts, providing a deep dive into Cambodia's rich history and culture.

Museum 1-2 hours 10 USD

Must-Try Local Dishes

Amok

A creamy coconut curry with fish or chicken, steamed in banana leaves.

Main Dish Can be made with fish or chicken, vegetarian options available.

Lok Lak

Stir-fried beef with onions and a tangy lime-pepper dipping sauce.

Main Dish Typically made with beef, but can be made with other meats.

Nom Banh Chok

Rice noodles topped with a fish-based gravy and fresh herbs.

Breakfast Vegetarian options available with tofu.

Bai Sach Chrouk

Grilled pork with broken rice and pickled vegetables.

Breakfast Contains pork.

Popular Activities

Boat Tours Biking Hiking Spa Treatments Riverfront Promenade Coffee Shops Temple Visits Museum Tours

Best Time to Visit

November to February

This is the dry season with pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

22°C - 32°C 72°F - 90°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Khmer
  • Widely spoken: English, French
  • English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Cambodian Riel (KHR)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe with common sense

Phnom Penh is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious, especially at night and in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be cautious of tuk-tuk drivers offering tours or services, as they may overcharge or take you to overpriced shops
  • • Use reputable tour operators and agree on prices beforehand
  • • Keep valuables secure and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas

Getting there

By air
  • Phnom Penh International Airport • 10 km from city center
By train

Phnom Penh Railway Station

By bus

Central Market Bus Station, Siem Reap Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Public buses are affordable but can be crowded and slow. Routes cover major areas of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PassApp, Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Riverside BKK1 Russian Market (Psar Tuol Tom Poung)

Day trips

Tonlé Sap Lake
150 km from Phnom Penh • Full day

A large freshwater lake known for its floating villages and unique ecosystem.

Kampong Cham
120 km from Phnom Penh • Full day

A riverside town with a mix of French colonial architecture and traditional Khmer temples.

Koh Dach Island
15 km from Phnom Penh • Half day

A peaceful island known for its silk weaving and rural landscapes.

Festivals

Khmer New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey) • April 14-16 Water Festival (Bon Om Touk) • November (dates vary) Pchum Ben • September/October (dates vary)

Pro tips

  • Visit the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat
  • Try local street food at the Central Market or Russian Market for an authentic experience
  • Take a tuk-tuk tour of the city to see the major attractions in a short amount of time
  • Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum for a sobering but important historical perspective
  • Explore the riverside area for great dining and nightlife options
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 12-88
1
Childs
Age 2-11
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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