Discover the Capital of Cambodia: Phnom Penh
Welcome to Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s lively capital! Phnom Penh, often known as the “Pearl of Asia“, provides a unique view into Cambodia’s history and present through its gorgeous architecture, lively marketplaces, and warm, friendly environment. Don’t hesitate to experience the thrilling adventures that await you in Phnom Penh with Lua Viet Tours!
Phnom Penh from bird’s eye view (Image Source: Internet)
Overview about Phnom Penh
As located at the confluence of the Mekong River, Bassac, and Tonle Sap Rivers, Phnom Penh is a fascinating blend of historical significance, heritage of culture, and modern development. Known as the “Pearl of Asia,” it is Cambodia’s commercial, political, and cultural center, housing more than one million of the country’s estimated 11.4 million people.
Phnom Penh at the confluence of Mekong River, Bassac, and Tonle Sap Rivers (Image Source: Internet)
The city also serves as a gateway to some of the world’s most impressive religious complexes, such as the Angkor temples in the west, the beaches on the southern coast, and the ethnic minority regions in the northeastern provinces.
Top 6 Things to Do at Phnom Penh
If you have the chance to visit Phnom Penh, you definitely shouldn’t miss the exciting attractions listed below. Let’s explore the famous landmarks of Cambodia’s capital with Lua Viet Tours!
1. Admire the Royal Palace (Cambodian Royal Palace)
The Royal Palace stands out with its roof following classic Khmer architecture and gilding. This is the residence of King Sihamoni and the royal family, foreign guests, and where court meetings, diplomatic ceremonies, and royal festivals take place. That’s why most of the palace is closed to the public.
The Royal Palace in Phnom Penh (Image Source: Internet)
Tourists are only allowed to visit the Throne Hall, Silver Pagoda and surrounding buildings. Everyone must wear knee-length pants and elbow-length sleeves. If not, guests coming here need to wear a sarong. The palace is often crowded on weekends, when locals flock to visit to pay their respects to the king. Joining a crowd of people is a fun way to experience the atmosphere.
Visitors are also encouraged to hire a tour guide to fully understand the history and architecture of this place.
2. Do Shopping at the Central Market
Housed in a 1937 Art Deco building, the market is a popular city landmark. In Cambodian, the market is called Phsar Thom Thmei.
The central market – one of the 6 Best Markets in Phnom Penh, Cambodia (Image Source: Internet)
This is the capital’s largest market, according to Lua Viet Tours, specializing in selling local specialties. In addition, visitors can find items such as jewelry, antiques, clothes, flowers, food, and shoes in this place. Time to visit the market: 1-2 hours.
3. Visit religious tourism to Wat Phnom
As one of the most sacred and important pagodas in the capital, this is a favorite pilgrimage destination for people across the country. The pagoda was built in 1373, located at an altitude of 27 m above the surrounding area. Therefore, the pagoda is a religious building built at the highest position in the city.
Visit The Most Sacred Wat Phnom In Cambodia (Image Source: Internet)
The pagoda has two ways: up and down. Tourists will go one way and get off another way. The road to the pagoda is not high, on the side of the road there is a statue of the snake god Naga and two spiritual monks. This is a familiar mascot in the beliefs of local people.
4. Travel through Mekong River
The Mekong River is one of the largest rivers in the world, originating from the Qinghai Plateau, Qinghai Province, flowing through Yunnan China, through Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia and emptying into the East Sea in Vietnam.
Great View Of The Mekong River (Image Source: Internet)
One of the experiences loved by many tourists is taking a boat on the Mekong River when arriving in Phnom Penh. Guests can take a full day tour or stay overnight on the river and enjoy the beautiful scenery here.
>>> Capture the beauty of Mekong River on Cruise
5. Come and learn at the National Museum
This museum is located on Street 13, next to the Royal Palace. The entrance to the tourist complex and the ticket counter are located at the corner of streets 13 and 178. Opening hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. This place especially has English, Japanese, French tour guides and a souvenir shop for you to buy presents.
The National Museum of Cambodia (Image Source: Internet)
6. Explore the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum
This was once the place of detention and torture of the Khmer Rouge regime. Located in the center of the capital, the museum preserves a tragic time in Cambodian history and is open to travelers with the aim of encouraging each visitor to become a messenger of peace.
Suitable time to visit: 2-3 hours.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum – the largest center of detention and torture in the country (Image Source: Internet)
What to Eat at Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh offers a diverse and vibrant culinary scene that reflects Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage. Here are some must-try dishes and dining experiences in the capital:
1. Bai Sach Chrouk
Bai Sach Chrouk is a renowned traditional Cambodian breakfast meal that highlights the country’s diverse culinary traditions. In Phnom Penh, the dish also retains its values:
- Grilled Pork: The dish consists of thinly sliced pork (sach chrouk) that is marinated and then grilled, preferably over charcoal. The marinade often contains coconut milk, garlic, palm sugar, soy sauce, fish sauce, lime, and Kampot pepper, which give the pork its particular flavor.
- Rice: Jasmine rice (bai), providing for a hearty and filling supper.
- Pickled vegetables: providing an acidic and refreshing contrast to the savory and sweet tastes of the meat.
Bai Sach Chrouk (Image Source: Internet)
2. Num Banh Chok
Num Banh Chot is a popular street food in Cambodia, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. It’s often found at markets and food stalls, where it’s cooked fresh to order. Num Banh Chot is often topped with a variety of ingredients, including minced pork, shrimp, and green onions.
Visitors will fall in love with Num Banh Chok at Phnom Penh (Image Source: Internet)
3. Bobor
Bobor (also spelled “Borbor” or “Babor”) is a traditional Cambodian rice porridge that is a staple in the country’s cuisine. It is made by simmering rice in a flavorful broth until it reaches a creamy consistency. The broth can be made from chicken, pork, or fish stock, and the porridge is often enriched with ingredients like bean sprouts, green onions, shallots, and various herbs.
Bobor – A great dish for both local and international visitors to enjoy (Image Source: Internet)
Lua Viet Tours will list to you some top destinations and must-try food at Phnom Penh as a suggestion for visitors to refer to for their upcoming trip. Start planning your unforgettable journey with Lua Viet Tours today and make the most of your trip to Phnom Penh!
