Phnom Penh

Travel Guide to Phnom Penh: A Comprehensive Exploration

Introduction

Welcome to the bustling capital city of Cambodia - Phnom Penh! This vibrant city offers a unique blend of historical charm, modern development, and rich cultural experiences. Here’s your comprehensive guide to help you make the most out of your visit.

Places to Go

  1. Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda: A must-visit for its architectural beauty and historical significance. The Silver Pagoda houses numerous Buddhist artifacts, including a solid gold Buddha encrusted with 9584 diamonds!

  2. Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21) and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek: A somber but essential part of understanding Cambodia’s history during the Khmer Rouge regime.

  3. National Museum of Cambodia: Home to Angkorian artifacts, it provides a deep insight into the rich cultural heritage of the Khmer civilization.

  4. Central Market (Phsar Thmei) and Russian Market (Phsar Tuol Tom Poung): Shop for souvenirs, local food, and artworks in these bustling markets.

  5. Wat Phnom: The namesake of the city, this peaceful temple offers a great view of the city from its elevated location.

  6. Independence Monument (Vimeanek Khaing Khneah): A tribute to Cambodia’s independence from French rule in 1953.

Activities

  1. Boat Trip on the Mekong River: Enjoy a serene boat ride along the Mekong River, watching the sunset and observing local life.

  2. Cyclo Tour: Explore the city streets in traditional cyclo (rickshaws) for an authentic experience.

  3. Visit the Riverside: Relax at one of the many riverside bars or restaurants, offering beautiful views of Phnom Penh’s skyline.

  4. Phare Circus: Experience a captivating blend of art, music, and acrobatics in this social enterprise show by Cambodian youth.

Where to Eat

  1. Friends Restaurant: A training restaurant for underprivileged youth, offering delicious Khmer cuisine.

  2. Mali Streat Food: Taste a variety of street foods in a clean and friendly environment.

  3. Killfish: Enjoy fresh seafood with stunning views of the river.

  4. Romdeng: Dine in this social enterprise restaurant, offering traditional Khmer cuisine.

Where to Stay

  1. Raffles Hotel Le Royal: A historic 5-star hotel with a rich history and luxurious amenities.

  2. Hotel Apsara: A boutique hotel offering comfortable rooms and a rooftop bar with city views.

  3. The Plantation Urban Resort & Spa: A stylish resort with lush gardens, outdoor pools, and a spa.

Things to Know

  1. Cambodia uses the U.S. dollar as its official currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities but carry cash for smaller shops and street vendors.

  2. Tuk-tuks are the primary means of transport; negotiate the price before starting your journey.

  3. Khmer is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in Phnom Penh’s tourist areas.

  4. Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Transportation

Tuk-tuks are the most common mode of transport for tourists. Metered taxis are also available, with Grab (the Southeast Asian version of Uber) becoming increasingly popular.

Tips

  1. Bargain when shopping at markets but be respectful and mindful of the seller’s livelihood.

  2. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night.

  3. Be open to new experiences and embrace the unique culture of Phnom Penh!

Further Resources