Phnom Penh
A Beautiful and Historical Metropolis
Spread out the banks of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, Phnom Penh is the capital and largest city of Campbodia, renowned for its beauty and undeniable charm. In spite of a tumultuous and often violent history, it has grown to become the nation's centre of economic and industrial activities.
Once home to the king of the Khmer Empire and known as the 'Pearl of Asia', this French-built city's main tourist attractions include the National Museum, the Independence Monument and the Royal Palace with the Silver Pagoda. For moving insight into the difficulties faced by Cambodians during the war, visit the Genocide Museum and Killing Fields, where the Khmer Rouge claimed the lives of many thousands of victims during their four-year reign of terror
The town offers an attractive balance of crumbling colonial architecture and bustling street cafes and bars. You will find plenty of great restaurants and markets serving up all forms of Cambodian specialties, including French-influenced dining and some interesting culinary treats not found elsewhere in the country
Insiders' Tips
- Visit the Angkor Temples: Discover the temple complex built in the 12th century as King Suryavarman II's state temple and capital city.
- The Water Festival: Lasting 3 days in November, this lively gathering celebrates the reversing of the flow of the Tonle Sap River.
- Visit Wat Phnom: These three-wheeled pedal cycle-rickshaws are a slow scenic, traditional and romantic way to explore the city.
More Information
For maps, days tours and accommodation options, visit the Pnohm Penh chapter in our online Asia Cities brochure. Click here.
