Known as the wealthiest and biggest city in Cambodia, Phnom Penh has more than one million of the country’s whole population. It is often referred to as the ‘City of Four Faces’ because it is situated where three important rivers in the country intersect. Also, the city of Phnom Penh was once known as the ‘Pearl of Asia’ but its shine faded after the war and revolution. Despite what happened, Phnom Penh risen and recovered which paved a way for them to adapt to the rapid change. Now, it is one of the cities visited by numerous tourists, built with plenty hotels, restaurants, and attractions. Are you planning a Cambodia holiday soon in Phnom Penh? Continue reading below to check out Phnom Penh attractions you must see.
ROYAL PALACE
One of the places to visit in Phnom Penh and probably the highlight of the city is the Royal Palace. It is where Cambodia’s royal family reside since the 1860s when the capital city was moved from Oudong. Designed with classic Khmer roofs and extravagant decorations, the palace has four main structures – Silver Pagoda, Khemarin Palace, Throne Hall, and the Inner Court. Both the Throne Hall and Silver Pagoda are only open to the public. The Silver Pagoda is popular because of its Emerald Buddha statue and a mammoth 90-kilogram Gold Buddha statue, sprinkled with thousands of diamonds.
INDEPENDENCE MONUMENT
Dominating the center of Phnom Penh is a majestic construction called the Independence Monument. The tower was built in 1958 in celebration of Cambodia’s freedom from French Colonization. Its design was inspired by the central tower of Angkor Wat, the most popular ancient temple in Cambodia. The main reason why the monument is built is to commemorate the people who died for the country’s benefit. Independence monument is often embellished with flowers and also serves as the place for festivities and activities celebrated every year.
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF CAMBODIA
The National Museum of Cambodia is a home to more than 1,800 objects on display. This place is a must-visit especially if you are interested in learning about Cambodia’s history. It gives you a glimpse of what Cambodia has been since the fourth century. Aside from the displays, the history is reflected through the architectural aspect of the museum as well. Some of the famous displays in the collection are – Vishnu head, Angkorian Collection, and a large exhibit of pre-Angkorian artifacts.
WAT OUNALOM
One of the Phnom Penh attractions is Wat Ounalom, considered as the most important temple complex in the whole country. It allows you to peek through the history, philosophies, and teachings of Buddhism in Cambodia. The complex has more than forty buildings and this is why it is considered as the nation’s Buddhist headquarters. The temple was damaged by the Khmer Rouge but it was slowly restored.
CENTRAL MARKET (PSAR THMEI)
Also known as Psar Thmei which means ‘New Market’, the Central Market is one of the most famous places in Phnom Penh. It is one of Phnom Penh tourist places that you would not dare to miss out during your trip. Constructed in 1937 during the French colonial period, it underwent a renovation before it was reopened to public in 2011. Aside from being the largest of its kind in Asia, what is special in the market is that it reflects the traditional Asian architecture. If you are worried about the large number of crowd, don’t worry because the market is well-ventilated and the heat won’t be a problem. The market sells clothes, jewelries, ornaments, shoes, souvenirs, food, electronic items – almost everything you want or need to buy.
At the end of the day, you would want to relax yourself in a comfortable place after being tired of going around Phnom Penh attractions. If you are asking yourself where to stay in Phnom Penh, there are numerous hotel accommodations you can search online that can cater you depending on your budget. After all, every tourist wants to have a comfortable and affordable place to stay in.
With plenty of things to do in Phnom Penh, your two days will surely be worth it. In addition to that, the Cambodian culture is really worth experiencing and seeing on your own. For flight booking offers, you may visit Bangkok Airways.
