Phnom Penh, the capital and largest city of Cambodia, is a fascinating destination that offers a rich blend of history, culture, and modernity. Whether you are interested in exploring the ancient temples, learning about the tragic past, enjoying the vibrant nightlife, or sampling the delicious cuisine, Phnom Penh has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Phnom Penh that you should not miss.
Visit the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda
The Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda are the most iconic landmarks of Phnom Penh, and a must-see for any visitor. The Royal Palace is the official residence of the King of Cambodia, and a stunning example of Khmer architecture. The palace complex consists of several buildings, gardens, and courtyards, each with its own charm and beauty. You can admire the ornate details, the golden roofs, and the colorful murals that adorn the palace walls.
The Silver Pagoda, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is located within the palace grounds. The pagoda is named after its floor, which is covered with over 5,000 silver tiles. The pagoda houses many precious relics and statues, including a life-sized gold Buddha encrusted with diamonds, and an emerald Buddha made of baccarat crystal. The pagoda is also surrounded by a gallery of murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana epic.
The Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda are open daily from 8:00 am to 11:00 am and from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. The entrance fee is $10 USD per person.
Learn about the Khmer Rouge at Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Choeung Ek Killing Fields
One of the most sobering and important things to do in Phnom Penh is to learn about the dark history of the Khmer Rouge regime, which ruled Cambodia from 1975 to 1979. During this period, an estimated 1.7 million people died from starvation, disease, torture, and execution. Many of them were killed at Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Choeung Ek Killing Fields, two of the most notorious sites of mass murder.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum was formerly a high school that was converted into a prison and interrogation center by the Khmer Rouge. Here, more than 20,000 people were detained, tortured, and killed. Today, the museum displays the photographs, documents, and belongings of some of the victims, as well as the cells, instruments, and methods of torture that were used. The museum is a haunting reminder of the atrocities that took place here.
Choeung Ek Killing Fields was one of the many sites where the Khmer Rouge executed their prisoners. Here, more than 17,000 men, women, and children were killed and buried in mass graves. Today, you can see the memorial stupa that contains more than 8,000 skulls of some of the victims, as well as the pits where the bodies were found. You can also listen to an audio guide that tells you the stories of some of the survivors and witnesses.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Choeung Ek Killing Fields are open daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. The entrance fee for each site is $6 USD per person. You can also book a guided tour or a tuk-tuk driver to take you to both sites.
Enjoy the Riverside Promenade
One of the most pleasant and relaxing things to do in Phnom Penh is to enjoy the Riverside Promenade, also known as Sisowath Quay. This is a long stretch of road that runs along the banks of the Tonle Sap River and offers scenic views of the water and the city skyline. You can walk, bike, or jog along the promenade, or sit on one of the benches and watch the boats and people go by.
The Riverside Promenade is also a great place to enjoy some food and drinks at one of the many cafes, restaurants, bars, and pubs that line up along the road. You can find a variety of cuisines here, from Khmer to French to Indian to Chinese. You can also find some street food stalls that sell local snacks such as fried noodles, spring rolls, grilled meat skewers, and fresh fruits.
The Riverside Promenade is lively at any time of day or night but especially during sunset when you can see the sky turn into different shades of orange and pink. You can also join some of the locals who gather here for dancing or aerobics classes in front of Wat Ounalom.
