Phnom Penh - Do & See
- Nearby guides:
- Ho Chi Minh
- Siem Reap
- Bangkok
- Phuket
- Penang
- Kuala Lumpur
- Hanoi
- Singapore
- Kota Kinabalu
- Kunming
Royal Palace/silver Pagoda
This classic Khmer palace sits impressively opposite the city’s riverside. Immerse yourself in beautifully manicured gardens, delightful royal abodes and a serene calm. The throne, used for coronation and important ceremonies, sits in a finely decorated room. At its side, stands a small delightful ornate maisonette offered by Napoleon III to King Norodom. Walk across to the Silver Pagoda and observe the golden Buddha, encrusted with 9,584 diamonds, the largest one weighing 25 carats.
National Museum
This red-stoned traditional royal Khmer building, offers a glimpse of the Khmer Empire’s rich heritage. With artefacts dating back from pre-Angkorian times the museum’s pieces are some of the only remaining historical artefacts that survived the Khmer Rouge. Relax in the quiet garden in the museum’s central courtyard.
Tuol Sleng
A former school, known as S-21, became the hub of the Khmer Rouge’s interrogation and torture of more than 17,000 ‘enemies’ of the state. School rooms turned into cells, victims’ portraits align the corridors of this daunting building. An emotional visit, at a place to pay respect to the victims of Cambodia’s tragedy.
River Cruise
View the city whilst cruising on the Mekong or Tonle Sap. Boats can be hired on the riverside’s banks. Size varies according to the number of passengers.
Reyum/street 178
This is a leading art institution for young Cambodians (No 47, Street 178). Its main vision is to be a forum for the research, preservation and promotion of Cambodian arts and culture. In contrast to traditional Angkor Wat paintings, Reyum students are taught to approach art in a thoughtful way which incorporates Khmer culture. Down the street from Reyum there are numerous art shops. This is the city’s artistic hub and an interesting place to explore and meet the local artists in their workshops. Further down the road, adjoining the National Museum, is the University of Fine Art.
