Phnom Penh
Introduction to Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh has an eccentric charm. Seen from the river, palm trees and the spires of Khmer royal buildings rise over French-era Phnom Penh shophouses and villas. This city really grows on you.
Take time to explore Phnom Penh!
Before civil war broke out it was one of the finest cities in the region, nicknamed 'The Pearl of Asia'. Now, Phnom Penh is regaining this reputation: yellow-ocher buildings, squares and cafes, and tree-lined boulevards give it an appealing atmosphere.
Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda
Cambodia’s Royal Palace complex was begun by King Norodom (1834-1904) in 1866, when the capital was moved to Phnom Penh.
Most buildings were completed before World War I, with involvement by French administrators and Thai designers and architects.
The complex is divided by walls into three main compounds,
Attractions in Cambodia's Capital
The capital of the Kingdom of Cambodia, Phnom Penh, is located at the confluence of three rivers - the Mekong, the Bassac and Tonle Sap.
Over the past years, the city has undergone tremendous changes – businesses are springing up constantly and tourism is once again booming. Phnom Penh has managed to retain its charm and character – cyclos that weave through traffic with ease, broad boulevards, old colonial buildings, and above all its people who always have a smile for you.
Sisowath Quay: Phnom Penh Boulevard
After years of extensive works by the Japanese to improve Phnom Penh's drainage system, Sisowath Quay is back as the capital's main boulevard, situated along the Tonle Sap river. But..., is it better than before? Well, hopefully the flooding in the centre of Phnom Penh will be less, but it seems the Quay itself has lost quite a bit of its charm.
The women selling food, fruits, snacks, and toys or foreseeing your future have all gone. Instead of the green spaces, large swats have been paved. And who is the one responsible for those new and ugly lampposts?
Sights in Phnom Penh
Cambodia is a beautiful country and Phnom Penh a truly welcoming and attractive city. But Cambodia's recent history is dark and to understand the Khmers better, a visit to the genocide museum and the killing fields is a must.
Having seen the shocking exhibition, you will be even more surprised by the friendliness of the Cambodians today.
Around Phnom Penh: Silk Island, Oudong
If you want to escape Phnom Penh, there are quite a few day trips to be made from the capital. You can go on a boat trip to Mekong Island, discover the ancient capital of Oudong, or visit Tonle Bati and the zoo at Phnom Tamau.
Yes, Phnom Penh and its surroundings are worth more than just a day visiting!
More to do in Phnom Penh
So, you have seen the Royal Palace, the Russian Market, Central Market, Wat Phnom and wandered around Sisowath Quay. What more can you do in Phnom Penh?
Well, as far as we are concerned, quite a lot. This city deserves a few days exploring. See our suggestions on this page. For things to see near the Cambodian capital, see our page Around Phnom Penh.
French Colonial Architecture
Phnom Penh once was known as the Pearl of Asia. The old heart of the city was build during French colonial times and many of the old buildings still remain, although quite a few are neglected and some are even in disrepair.
Fortunately, more and more people realise the city should make every effort to preserve these structures, as they are an integral part of Phnom Penh's identity.
Getting around in Phnom Penh
First time visitors may be scared by the chaotic traffic in Phnom Penh. Well, it’s not as bad as it seems. Motorised traffic in the city is usually quite slow and rarely you’ll see drivers getting angry. On the contrary, Phnom Penh drivers are extremely tolerant.
Here we give you some ideas on how to get around Phnom Penh.
The Flicks: a different movie experience
So, you are used to those mega super dupe movie theatres in your home country? Have a different experience in Phnom Penh's only cinema that targets the western movie taste. Just don't expect one of these concrete multiplex bunkers in a shopping mall, but imagine a small house.
It's the only cinema in town which targets the local expats with western-orientated blockbusters, art house, kids movies, animations and the classics.
