Phnom Penh , Cambodia

Oudong Mountain History and Pagoda Tour

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(33 reviews)

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About this experience

On all our tours, you will be personally guided by Sam Ang (Sam), a local and licenced English-speaking guide. Sam will immerse you in a rich cultural tour filled with his passion, friendship, knowledge and stories about Cambodia.

On this day trip you will venture to the location of the former Royal Capital of Cambodia at Mount Oudong. After several stops along the way you will arrive at the village of Chey Odam from where we will hike to the top of the mountain for expansive views of the surrounding landscape, and wander through shady forest to view ancient and modern temples and stupas.
This tour is suitable for families, groups and solo travellers alike. Please note that at temples and religious sites, shoulders, backs and legs above the knee should be covered.

Available options

Oudong Mountain History and Pagoda Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Pick up and drop off

Water

Transportation by Tuk Tuk or Car

Lunch at a local outdoor restaurant with beer and soft drinks.

Snacks

English speaking tour guide

Small souvenir

Detailed itinerary

Fish Port and Market at Russey Keo on the Tonle Sap River.
The Tonle Sap River, draining the vast freshwater lake of the same name, is an extremely important fishery. Driving north from Phnom Penh we stop at the fish port. Here, local fishermen in traditional boats, bring their catch to sell to traders for distribution and for direct sales at the busy fish market.

Bopha Kampong Luong Silversmith Village.
After a further drive north beside the Tonle Sap River we arrive at Kampong Luong to visit the traditional silversmith village. Here you will see local artisans produce handicrafts from silver and other metals, and observe their traditional way of life.

Floating Village at Kampong Luong.
A little north we arrive at a point where we can view an extensive floating village. These villages are a feature of the Tonle Sap and Mekong rivers, the largest of which are entire communities of businesses and services as well as floating homes.

Heading inland from the river we arrive in the Oudong district. Formerly the royal capital of Cambodia, this is an important historic and cultural site. Our time here begins with a visit to Wat Arey Kasap, which is a contemporary Buddhist temple that displays many of the traditional architectural and sculptural themes. During your guided tour of the site, you may if you wish, receive a traditional Buddhist blessing from one of the monks.

The highlight of our day trip, the jungle clad Mount Oudong is highly picturesque, and its ascent offers visitors expansive views of the surrounding plains. This is an important historic site, much visited by Cambodians, but often missed by tourists. The remains of numerous kings and other royalty are entombed in the many stupas here. The mountain is elongated and runs SE to NW and is ascended on foot up many steps. Our 1.5km route ascends the northern end and follows the wooded ridgeline to reach the stunning white stupa called Preah Shakyamuni Chedi which, completed in 2002, is a modern addition to the site and houses Buddha relics. From here you can choose to continue along the ridgeline for a longer walk or descend the 509 steps directly back to the village. The longer walk option hikes past more ancient stupas, temples, statues and associated stone carvings, to the historic Wat Athaross temple, a highly sacred site recently restored following destruction by the Khmer Rouge.

Market. Sitting at the base of Phnom Oudong, Chey Odam village is a picturesque place much visited by day tripping Cambodians from Phnom Penh. Here we take time to browse in the market before heading for lunch.

Lunch.
With many weekend visitors from the city, Oudong is well supplied with Khmer restaurants that offer traditional food served in shady huts where you can relax and escape the sun. Roast chicken with morning glory is a popular choice, but there is a wide choice of both vegetable and meat dishes.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

31 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

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