Visiting Phnom Penh's Temples

The improvements of Phnom Penh’s infrastructure and economy have put it, once again, on the itinerary of many tourists. While the international media still focuses on the late 1970s and the bloody reign of the Khmer Rouge, Cambodia's people are finally beginning to move forward. Dirt roads are beginning to disappear in Phnom Penh(Cambodia's capital). These routes are being paved. The city, though still a backwater compared to Bangkok or Ho Chi Minh City, is growing by leaps and bounds. New hotels and buildings are popping up, to accommodate the growing number of tourists and foreign businesses eager to find a place in Cambodia’s bustling capital city.

The atmosphere is tangible in Phnom Penh. The colonial architecture, the dusty streets, mysterious lane ways, and bustling markets combine to create an air which is unique to Phnom Penh. Perhaps the most appealing aspect of the city is its aged and remarkably beautiful temples. While Angkor Wat is appealing in its massiveness, Phnom Penh’s temples are quieter, less toured spots which exude history, beauty, and Khmer soul.

There are two popular temples, Wat Phnom and and The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which is on the grounds of The Royal Palace. Both these sites charge a small entrance fee. Photography is not always allowed as these are holy sites. Check first before snapping away. It is also interesting to note that Phnom Penh got its name from Wat Phnom, which means “Hill Temple.” Wat Phnom is, in fact,on a hill, an provides some good views of the city below.

About 20 miles outside Phnom Penh is Oudong Temple, a remnant of the city that used to be Cambodia’s capital. The statues of this structure date back several hundred years, and are prime examples of classical Khmer architecture. The trip to Oudong can be made in a single day via motorbike, tour bus, or taxi. It takes about an hour one-way.

There are numerous smaller temples within Phnom Penh. For example, Wat Ounalom is where Cambodia’s holiest monks are headquartered. The temple overlooks the river, though the views do not match Wat Phnom’s. A trusted motodop driver or cyclo driver will be able to take you to some of the lesser known temples in town. Though these places might not be as spectacular as the ones mentioned above, but what is lacking in spectacle is made up for in atmosphere.

Visiting Phnom Penh is easier and much safer than it was in the past. The city’s temples are destinations in and of themselves.