Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, is an urban city that offers everything a tourist is looking for. I enjoyed the leisurely tour to the various historical and cultural attractions as well as the hospitality of the people. You can enjoy Phnom Penh even with a small budget.
Things to See
- Royal Palace
This is the residence of Cambodia’s royal family. Only a part of the palace called Silver Pagoda is open to the visitors and this itself will give you a glimpse of the Khmer architecture. The floor of this pagoda is covered with 5,329 silver tiles. The life-size statue of Emerald Buddha in the palace dates back to the 17th century.
- Independence Monument
This monument tower created to celebrate the country’s liberation from French colonization is similar to the Angkor Wat temple in its structure. The lotus stupa is created to honor the freedom fighters. Many national festivals are held here and during this time it will be decorated with floors. The night is the ideal time to visit this attraction as the monument gets illuminated by floodlights.
- National Museum
This is a must see place if you are interested in the history of the country like me. This is a red sandstone construction which exhibits different artifacts which represent Cambodian history. You will be mesmerized by the art collection from the famous ethnic group Khmer.
- Sisowath Quay
This is one of the most popular spots among tourists with shops, street vendors and restaurants. Water festival during Buddhist New Year is the greatest attraction. Ferry boats are available from here to Siem Reap.
- Tuol Sleng (S-21 Prison)
The genocide museum at Tuol Sleng or the S-21 prison is the place where people were tortured and killed during the regime of Khmer Rouge. You can read the tragic history of more than 17,000 Cambodians from the portraits of the prisoner displayed here.