PHNOM PENH
Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is a city in the midst of rapid change. But as skyscrapers rise and fast food restaurants multiply, the city still offers that traditional old mixture of Cambodian hospitality and Indochinese charm. Set at the confluence of three great rivers - the Chaktomuk or ‘four faces’ of the Mekong River - Phnom Penh is a city of more than 3 million people and the country's commercial, economic and political hub. Though seeing significant development over the last 20 years, as a travel destination the city still has an adventurous air - from the historic sites and architecture, to the boutiques and bistros dotting the side streets, and the city’s legendary dusk-to-dawn nightlife.
Many of the tourist areas and sights are in the old central city near the river where you may notice classic old French buildings in classic colonial yellow amongst the Southeast Asian shophouses and traditional Khmer pagodas and markets. Sights in the area include the ornate Royal Palace, nearby National Museum, which is the most significant public repository of Khmer artifacts in the country, and the riverfront dining and shopping district. Khmer Rouge historical sites include the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum and the Choeung Ek Memorial. outside the city.
Accomodation
Phnom Penh offers a wide and varied range of accommodations. Hotels and guesthouses are spread across city, though there is a greater concentration toward the city center, the popular riverside and BKK1 areas. Mid-range a/c rooms run $15-$100+/night with CTV, fridge and hot water at the low end, and well-appointed, boutique style rooms at the top. Business class starts at about $130. Fan & bed budget digs can be had for as little as $5-$10/night.
Recommendations
Alibi Villa-Guesthouse
Range: $22 - $80
Centrally-located villa-style guesthouse in a garden setting in a pleasantly quiet area. Easy walking distance to the Royal Palace/riverfront area. Free in-room wifi. Visa/MC
Tel: 023 69 59 087 016 90 15 90
Just off Sothearos Blvd., behind Song Tra Ice Cream
Amanjaya Pancam Hotel
Range: $155 - $250
Offering the highest standard of western comfort, style and the elegance and traditional Khmer style. K-West restaurant/bar. TWG teashop in lobby. Visa/MC/AMEX/ANZ
Tel: 023-214747
reservation@amanjaya-pancam-hotel.com
#1, Sisowath Quay (map - riverfront)
Anik Boutique Hotel
Range: $100 - $200
Upscale hotel at the south end of town near Diamond Island. Large, well-appointed rooms including family suites. Suitable for business and leisure travelers. Visa/MC/JCB
Tel: 023-982174 023-982175
reservation@anikboutiquehotels.com
#N12, Rainbow Bridge, Koh Pich, Phnom Penh
Asia Hotel
Range: $25 - $60
A/c, fridge, bathtub, LCD-CTV. Free wifi. Conference room. Travel agent. Business center. KFC Restaurant. Heart of the city. Near Central Market. Visa/MC
Tel: 023-427825
asia.hotel@online.com.kh
#170, Monivong Blvd., Phnom Penh
Asia Tune Hotel
Range: $40 - $70
Centrally located, mid-range hotel, just a 5-minute tuk-tuk ride from the riverfront and Royal Palace area. Well-appointed rooms. Restaurant. Visa/MC/JCB
Tel: 023-977789
reservation@asiatunehotel.com
#85 Street 19 corner 148, Phnom Penh
Diamond Palace Resort & Sky Bar
Range: $30 - $80
New midrange hotel with stylish rooms and a rooftop swimming pool. In the Independence Monument area, near BKK1 and the popular Bassac Lane. Visa/MC/JCB
Tel: 023-210992, 093-555858
info@diamondpalaceresort.com
www.diamondpalaceresort.com
#3 Street 310, near BKK1
Central Mansions
Range: $90 - $220 (breakfast included)
Upmarket apartments and rooms in a beautiful colonial style building. Medium and long-term apartment rental and hotel rooms by the night. Finely-appointed rooms and complete hotel services. Swimming pool, restaurant, gym, kid's room. Visa/MC/GD/ANZ
Tel: 023-986810
info@centralmansions.com
#1A Street 102, Phnom Penh
Blue Tongue Hotel
Range: $30 - $48
Boutique hotel next to the Walkabout Guesthouse. Clean, stylish, quite room with all amenities. In-room wifi. Restaurant serving Thai and western comfort food. Visa/MC
Tel: 023-224639
Corner of Street 51 and 174, Phnom Penh
Cambodian Country Club Hotel
Range: $50 - $123
Nicely-appointed rooms, swimming pool, restaurant and country club. Situated comparatively close to the airport. Family suites available. Visa/MC
Tel: 023-885591 023-885592
info@cambodian-country-club.com
www.cambodian-country-club.com
Street 2004, Phnom Penh
Sen Han Hotel
Range: $35 - $95
Well-appointed rooms and suites suitable for the leisure and business traveler. Large fitness center, indoor pool, restaurant, conference facilities. Visa/MC
Tel: 023-988896
info@senhanhotel.com
#98 Street 600, corner Street 313, Tuol Kok
Cozy Boutique Hotel
Range: $40 - $55
Cozy boutique style, affordable mid-range prices, conveniently located in the popular Boeung Keng Kang 1 area. Swimming pool. Visa/MC/JCB
Tel: 023-993825 012-650765
info@cozyboutiquehotel.com
#24 Street 334, BKK1, Phnom Penh (map - BKK1)
Monsoon Boutique Hotel
Range: $43 - $49
Just a couple of blocks off the main riverfront area and walking distance to the Palace, the Museum and more. Nicely-appointed rooms. Good value. Visa/MC/JCB/GD
Tel: 023-989856 095-981515
reservation@monsoonhotel.com
#53-55E0 Street 130 (map - riverfront)
Phnom Penh offers the best dining in Cambodia, with choice, depth and authenticity exceeding the tourist towns. The Cambodian food is made-for-the-locals authentic whether street food or 5-star dining, and most western and Asian cuisines as well as contemporary dining are well represented. And given Cambodia’s long relationship with France, it is no surprise the French food is also of particular note in Phnom Penh. Phnom Penh is great place to experience a bit of real Cambodia, have a couple of Cambodian meals and maybe try some street food, explore the French bistros and the city’s developing coffee culture, and know that you can always find a taste of home too.
Dining
Kravanh
Dining: Cambodian
11:00AM - 10:00PM
Lovely, comfortable, fully air-conditioned restaurant serving authentic, finely prepared Cambodian cuisine including traditional favorites, Royal Khmer recipes and provincial specialties. Try the Battambang Sausage with an Angkor Beer! Now at two locations,
Tel: 012-539977
1) #112 Sothearos Blvd, near Sihanouk Blvd.
2) Street 450, half a block from the Russian Market
Malis
6:00AM - 10:00PM
“The premier upscale Khmer dining experience” Phnom Penh's premier upscale Cambodian dining experience, Malis serves contemporary and traditional Khmer cuisine from the kitchen of the renowned Cambodian chef Luu Meng. The Cambodian breakfast, which is served until 11AM, is very popular, drawing a full house. Full bar, cocktails.
Tel: 023-221022
#136 Norodom
Ambau Khmer Restaurant
Dining: Khmer, Thai
8:00AM - 10:30PM **Happy Hour 2:00PM - 4:00PM
Tasty, authentic, nicely prepared Asian dishes, mostly Khmer and Thai, at comparatively reasonable prices. Serving most of the standards such as Cambodia Amok and Thai curries, with a few interesting touches and twists unique to Ambau Khmer. Air-conditioned indoor dining as well as patio seating. Visa/MC/ANZ
Tel: 081-845679, 010-655679
#30B, Street 184
Recommendations
One More...
Dining-Bar: German/French
5:00PM - Late
**Happy Hour 5:00PM - 7:00PM
“Home-cooked Alsatian dishes” This cozy little restaurant/bar boasts old world ambiance and home-cooked German, Alsatian and international dishes including a massive pork knuckle and the ever popular schnitzel. Comfortable a/c bar with a friendly neighborhood pub atmosphere.
Tel: 017-327378
#16Eo Street 294
Hall of Golden Chimes
Chinese / Fine Dining
11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Elegant award-winning Chinese restaurant on Level 5 of NagaWorld 2, known for exquisite Cantonese cuisine and fresh live seafood with panoramic views of the Mekong River. Enjoy flavorful dim sum, classic dishes like Peking duck and seafood specialties, as well as a highly recommended all-you-can-eat dim sum lunch buffet on weekends and holidays. http://www.nagaworld.com/restaurant/hall-of-golden-chimes/
Level 5, NagaWorld2 Park, Samdech Hun Sen St, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Friends the Restaurant
Dining: International
11:00AM - 11:00PM
“Teaching former street youth cooking skills” A cheerful tapas restaurant run as part of the highly respected organization 'Friends', teaching former street youth cooking/service skills. Asian and Western tapas, salads, specials. Delicious shakes, margaritas and daiquiris. Visa/MC/JCB
Tel: 012-802072
#215 Street 13 (Near the National Museum)
Iza Japanese Restaurant
Japanese / Izakaya-Style Dining
11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Izakaya-style Japanese restaurant perched on Level 37 of the Rosewood Phnom Penh, known for its interactive robata-yaki grill, sushi and sashimi station, and refined noodle corner. Enjoy a lively yet refined dining experience with top-quality sushi, grilled skewers, fresh sashimi, and an extensive sake selection — perfect for lunch, dinner, or a memorable evening meal with city views and elegant ambiance.
www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/phnom-penh/dining/iza Level 37, Vattanac Capital Tower, 66 Preah Monivong Blvd, Phnom Penh 12202, Cambodia
Oyster Restaurant & Bar
Dining: Khmer/International/Mongolian BBQ
6:30AM - 10:00PM
**Happy Hour 4:00PM - 8:00PM
“Casual setting for business or family dining” Casual setting for business or family dining with a fantastic view of the Tonle Sap. The menu is heavy on seafood, made-to-order Mongolian BBQ stir fry, steam boat buffet dinners and large a la carte menu.
Visa/MC/JCB/AMEX
Tel: 023-214555
#313 Sisowath Quay
Boma (Mediterranean restaurant)
Mediterranean / Casual Dining
11:30 AM – 2:30 PM & 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Charming Mediterranean restaurant in BKK1 serving a variety of fresh, flavorful dishes inspired by Middle Eastern and Southern European cuisine — from hummus and mezze to grilled meats, shawarma, salads, and vegetarian options. The cozy, warm atmosphere and lovely terrace make it a great spot for lunch or dinner with friends or family.
132 Z13 Rue Pasteur No. 51, Phnom Penh 12302, Cambodia
Freebird Bar & Grill
Bar-Dining: American
7:00AM - 11:00PM
An comfortable a/c place with an neighborhood bar ambiance and sporting a beautiful wooden bar with extra comy seating. A genuinely friendly place. Fully stocked bar and a wide selection of American, Tex-Mex and many other western foods. Delivery.
Tel: 023-224712
#69 Street 240
Cadillac Bar & Grill
American-themed and big portions
10:00AM - 11:00PM
Generous helpings of Western food are served up in acasual atmosphere by friendly staff. Breakfast available
Tel: 011-713567
#219 Sisowath Quay (on the riverfront)
AURA - Phnom Penh
Restaurant / Rooftop Bar
5:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Elegant and stylish rooftop restaurant & lounge perched above Bassac Lane, blending refined dining with a lively bar atmosphere. Enjoy an eclectic international and Asian-inspired menu alongside creative cocktails while soaking in panoramic city views. AURA is a great choice for sunset dinner, pre-drinks or late-night socializing with a sophisticated crowd — often featuring live music or special themed evenings.
Website: https://www.auracambodia.com/
11B Street 29 & Street 308, Phnom Penh 12301, Cambodia
Phnom Penh is a good little party town, offering a heady dusk till dawn nightlife and a variety of places from which to choose. Bars and clubs are scattered across the town, but as the city is fairly compact and many of the bars are clustered on a few ‘bar streets,’ it’s easy to hop between. The riverfront area sports dozens of bars including many of the hostess variety up the sidestreets; the Streets 278/51 area of Boeung Keng Kang 1 (BKK1) area is dotted with bars including several travelers places; chic micro-bars crowd Bassac Lane off Street 308 off Norodom Blvd near the Independence Monument; and very late night Street 51 is undoubtedly the busiest pub street in town.
There's something for everybody - neighborhood bars and after-work places like Rehabb Pub and Sports Bar in BKK1, plenty of hostess bars, some good wine bars, at least a couple of places with live music, a few clubs, and for late nighters more than a few 24/7 bars, especially in the Street 51 area and near the riverfront
Nightlife
Mad Monkey Phnom Penh
Bar / Hostel Nightlife Spot
3:00 PM – 12:00 AM (rooftop bar vibe; events earlier in the night)
Part of a lively backpacker hostel in BKK1 with multiple bar spaces and rooftop “beach” bar. Great for early evening drinks, social pub-crawl vibes, cocktails, and events before many head into central clubs later.
Website: http://www.madmonkeyhostels.com/phnompenh/
Street 242 (Oknha Pich St.), Phnom Penh
Candy Bar
Hostess Bar
**Happy Hour: 5:00PM - 9:00PM
24-hour hostess and sports bar and restaurant just off the riverfront. Lots of hostesses, cushioned seating, relaxed atmosphere with music at conversation volume. Pool table, sports TV, games. Serving a selection of western, Khmer and Thai dishes.
www.phnompenhnightlife.webs.com
#24-26 Street 136, on the corner of Street 5 (riverfront area map)
Le Moon Rooftop
Rooftop Bar / Lounge
5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
A classic Phnom Penh rooftop bar perched above the riverside with 270° views over the Tonle Sap & Mekong. Great for sunset drinks, cocktails, relaxed chats, and light food before heading out for the night.
Website: http://www.le-moon-rooftop.com/
154 Dekcho Damdin St. (154), Phnom Penh
Recommendations
Heart Of Darkness
Club-Disco
9:00 PM – 4:30 AM
(varies by night)
Long-standing late-night spot on Street 51, known for loud music, big crowds, and late finish times with DJs and dancing.
38 Rue Pasteur No. 51, Phnom Penh
Pontoon Night Club
Club-Disco
9:00 PM – 4:00 AM (often later on weekends)
One of Phnom Penh’s most iconic clubs with large dance floors, themed nights, international and local DJs, and a lively crowd. Often features special events and drag shows.
80 Jayavarman 7 St (172), Phnom Penh
LOVE - Phnom Penh
Club-Disco
9:00 PM – 4:00 AM
Popular nightclub with strong hip-hop/R&B vibes, great for dancing and social nights out, attracting both locals and travelers.
Wat Langka, 3 Street 278, Phnom Penh
Jasmine Nightclub
Nightclub
10:00PM – 4:00AM
A sleek club with modern interiors and great lighting, popular for dancing, good cocktails, and lively DJ sets. Newer but already one of the top nightlife hotspots.
Facebook: Jasmine Nightclub Phnom Penh
24 Oknha Chrun You Hak St (294), Phnom Penh
Epic Club Phnom Penh
Nightclub – EDM / Hip-Hop
9:00PM – 4:00AM
A high-energy club with massive LED screens, booming sound, and a sleek Vegas-style interior. Popular with both locals and tourists for EDM, hip-hop nights, and live DJ performances. Big dance floor, bottle service, and a super lively late-night crowd.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/epicclubpp
Instagram: @epicclubpp
#12 Street 51 (Pasteur), Boeng Keng Kang 1, Phnom Penh
Central X Club
Nightclub
6:00PM – 4:00AM
Massive late-night club near the Russian Embassy offering loud EDM, bass-heavy sets, and a wild local party crowd. A go-to if you want a very late night.
Tonle Bassac, near Russian Embassy, Phnom Penh
Tiger Bar 136
Bar
4:00PM – 4:00AM
Bustling nightlife bar on the famous Street 136. Known for cheap drinks, late-night crowds, loud music, and a chaotic but fun energy.
tigerbar136.ostronightlife.com
Street 136, Phnom Penh
Sundown Social Club
Rooftop/Bar
5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Chill rooftop spot with cocktails and city views — great for pre-drinks before heading on to clubs later.
#86, Street 440, Phnom Penh
#86, Street 440, Phnom Penh
Bassac Lane
Bar Street / Nightlife Area
5:00PM – 1:00AM+
Trendy alley filled with multiple micro-bars, gin bars, cocktail houses, and live-music corners. Best for bar-hopping and meeting people.
No single website — search “Bassac Lane Phnom Penh”
Bassac Lane, Tonle Bassac, Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh’s shopping scene is quickly evolving. Several malls have gone up in recent years, though the malls are generally not the places to go for traditional souvenirs like Khmer art, silks, handicrafts and such.
Uniquely Cambodian souvenirs include fine hand-loomed silks, Angkorian and Buddhist themed carvings, statues, hand-pounded silverwork, handicrafts, and of course, the most traditional of all Cambodian souvenirs, the krama -- a checkered scarf unique to the Khmer people and tourists.
The Russian Market and Central Market offer a unique local experience and excellent selections of traditional souvenirs, somewhat deeper and more varied for the real market explorer than the Siem Reap markets. If you're looking for more contemporary shopping, there are also boutique shops offering unique Cambodian-made fashions, accessories and gifts.
Art Shops & Galleries
Artisans d’Angkor
High-quality Cambodian-crafted wood & stone carvings, silver-plated objects, lacquerware, silk clothing, and home décor. Excellent workmanship and one of the most reputable artisan brands.
Hours: 9:00AM – 6:00PM
Tel: 023-992409
Website: www.artisansdangkor.com
Address: #12AE0, Street 13 (opposite the Post Office)
Insolite Souvenir Shop
Beautiful shop specializing in traditional Khmer-themed artwork, Angkor-era replicas, carvings, statues, and paintings. Great for authentic souvenirs.
Tel: 017-688876 / 023-223073
Email: insolitesouvenirshop@gmail.com
Address: #33Eo, Street 178 (Near the National Museum)
Pavillon d’Asie
Large boutique + gallery offering high-quality Cambodian handicrafts, bronzes, carvings, antiques, sculptures, ceramics, art deco furniture and accessories.
Tel: 023-221909 / 012-497217
Email: pavillondasie@hotmail.com
Address: #24/26, Preah Sihanouk Blvd
Senteurs d’Angkor (Gifts & Souvenirs)
Excellent for body products, handmade soaps, oils, creams, bath salts, spices, and Kampot pepper gift sets. One of the best souvenir shops.
Hours: 8:00AM – 7:00PM
Tel: 023-992512
Address: Street 178 (Opposite the National Museum)
Space Four Zero (Pop Art & Vinyl Store)
Unique pop-art gallery + vinyl shop. Specializes in rare records, pop art, vintage posters, and cool collectible prints. Very popular with tourists.
Tel: 069-571100
Website: spacefourzero.com
Address: 240 1/2 Lane
Hidden Treasures Antiques
High-quality Asian, French and colonial antiques. Constantly changing inventory—great if you want actual antique items from across Asia.
Tel: 012-596678
Website: southeastasianantiques.com
Address: #9Eo, Street 148, near Riverside
Artisans of Silver
High-quality handcrafted silver jewelry made by Cambodian artisans. Reputable, elegant designs.
Website: www.artisansofsilver.com
Available at: Ambre II, Elsewhere, Le Marais @ AEON Mall, Plantation, Pavilion, Villa Langka
D. Hindley Jewelry
Specialists in Cambodian gemstones: sapphires, rubies, zircons, topaz etc. High-quality craftsmanship; respected jeweler in Phnom Penh.
Tel: 012-327107
Website: www.dhindley.com
Address: #9, Street 184 (behind Royal Palace)
A.N.D. Boutique
Ethical fashion meets jewelry — handmade pieces using recycled materials, contemporary designs, and fair-trade practices.
Tel: 023-224713
Email: artisandesigners@gmail.com
Facebook: Alan James Flux
Locations:
#52 Street 240
#75 Street 240
#3 Street 178 at riverside
Cambodian Creations
Ethical and modern jewelry & accessories made by three Cambodian social enterprises. Great for stylish but responsibly made gifts.
Tel: 097-5223043
Website: www.cambodiancreations.com
Address: Street 240½ Laneway (next to Artillery Cafe)
Lotus Space
Modern handmade jewelry with Cambodian and French design influences. Uses high-quality silver and semi-precious stones.
Tel: 012-406916
Facebook: LotusSpaceCambodia
Address: #225 St. 13, Preah Ang Eng
Kabas Boutique
Fashion boutique selling silver jewelry with Cambodian gemstones + tailored clothes and accessories.
Tel: 070-677777 / 023-996139
Email: vireakkhmer18@yahoo.com
Address: #18B, Street 282 (next to Wat Langka)
Shopping & Galleries
Phnom Penh’s points of interest are largely historical and cultural, but they are only part of exploring the city. Exotic shopping, unique dining, indulgent spas and a fair bit of nightlife complete the Phnom Penh experience.
For the sights, set aside two or three days for the major points. Though it is possible to squeeze the most important sights into a single day, this leaves very little time at each location. Popular sights include the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum and the Khmer Rouge ‘Killing Fields,’ the National Museum, the Russian Market, Central Market and Wat Phnom. Except for the ‘Killing Fields,’ which are about 16km from the city center, all of the major sights are inside the city within a five or ten minute ride of each other.
Other things to do an see include traditional performances (including the very popular 'Plae Pakaa/Fruitful' at the National Museum.) And within day trips distance of Phnom Penh there are several Angkorian-era ruins and as well as other historic sites.
Most people hire transportation for half or full day at a time. Consider a cyclo or even a walking tour for a more intimate look at the city. There is also a new ‘Hop on-Hop off’ a/c tour bus the circles past all of the major in-city attractions once per hour, allowing a flexible itinerary. $15 for one day, $25 for two.
National Museum
Admission: $5.00
Open: 8:00 - 5:00, open everyday
Location: Street 178 & Street 13, next to the Royal Palace
Tel: 023-211753
The distinctive rust red National Museum in Phnom Penh is the most important repository of Khmer artifacts in the country. Over 5000 objects are on display including Angkorian era statues, lingas and other artifacts, most notably the legendary statue of the ‘Leper King’ from Siem Reap and an enormous 11th century bronze Vishnu. Though the emphasis is on Angkorian artifacts, there is also a good collection of pieces from later periods, including an exhibition of post-Angkorian Buddha figures. Even the museum building itself is of historical interest, a architectural hybrid of sorts, bearing both traditional Cambodian and western design elements. Visiting the museum after rather than before a trip to the Angkor in Siem Reap helps lend context to the Angkorian artifacts.
Cambodian Living Arts stages Traditional Cambodian Performances in the garden of the National Museum on Friday and Saturday at 7:00PM.
Multi-lingual tour guides are available. Souvenirs and books available including guidebook. Photography is limited. www.cambodiamuseum.info
Royal Palace and ‘Silver Pagoda’
Admission: 40,000 Riel (US$10)
Open: everyday, 7:30-11:00 / 2:00-5:00
Location: Sothearos Blvd (riverfront) between Streets 240 & 184
Marking the approach to the Royal Palace along Sothearos Blvd the high yellow crenellated wall and spired Chanchhaya Pavilion stand distinctively against the riverfront skyline. Inside the Palace grounds street sounds are silenced by the high walls and the royal buildings sit like ornate islands rising from the manicured gardens.
The Royal Palace serves as the residence of the King, a venue for court ceremony and as a symbol of the Kingdom. It was first established at its present location when the capital was moved from Oudong to Phnom Penh in 1866 under King Norodom and the French protectorate, though the Palace did not attain its current general form until about 1920. Khmer and European elements as well as distinct architectural echoes of the palace in Bangkok are present in the design of the various buildings.
Attached to the Palace compound, Wat Preah Keo Morokat (the 'Silver Pagoda') is unique amongst pagodas. So named for its silver tiled floor, it is where the King meets withmonks, Royal ceremonies are performed and it houses a collection of priceless Buddhist and historical objects including the 'Emerald Buddha.' And, unlike most pagodas, no monks live at the pagoda. The temple building, library and galleries were first constructed between 1892 and 1902.
Wat Phnom
Admission: $1/person
Location: North end of Norodom Blvd. at Street 96, in the center of the roundabout
A small hill crowned by an active wat (pagoda) marks the legendary founding place of the Phnom Penh. The hill is the site of constant activity, with a steady stream of the faithful trekking to the vihear, shrines and fortune tellers on top and a constellation of vendors, visitors and motodups at the bottom.
The legend of the founding of Wat Phnom is tied to the beginnings of Phnom Penh. Legend has it that in 1372 Lady Penh (Yea Penh) fished a floating Koki tree out of the river. Inside the tree were our Buddha statues. She built a hill (‘phnom’ means ‘hill’) and a small temple (wat) at what is now the site known as Wat Phnom. Later, the surrounding area became known after the hill (Phnom) and its creator (Penh), hence the name of the city ‘Phnom Penh.’ f
The current temple was last rebuilt in 1926. The large stupa contains the remains of King Ponhea Yat (1405-1467) who moved the Khmer capital from Angkor to Phnom Penh the early 15th century. Look for the altar of Lady Penh between the large stupa and the vihear. She is said to be of particular help to women..
Independence Monument
Admission: None
Location: At the intersection of Norodom and Sihanouk Blvds.
The Independence Monument (Vimean Ekareach) was inaugurated in November 9, 1962, celebrating Cambodia’s independence from foreign rule. Renowned Cambodian architect Vann Molyvann was the architect of the monument which is patterned on a lotus flower bud, adorned with Naga heads (multi-headed cobras,) and obviously reminiscent in design of the towers of Angkor Wat.
The Independence Monument now also serves as a monument to Cambodia’s war dead as well as her independence. The Independence Monument sit in the center of the traffic circle at the intersection of Norodom Blvd. and Sihanouk Blvd. and is the site of colorful celebrations and services on political holidays such as Independence Day (January 7) and Constitution Day (September 24.)
The Rivers
Situated on the west side of the Tonle Sap River, Phnom Penh is, before all else, the city at the Chaktomuk on the Mekong River. - the 'four faces' - riverine crossroads in the heart of Cambodia with the Tonle Sap River running northwest to the old Angkorian capital, the Mekong River north to Laos and branches south to the delta and the South China Sea.
The River Front
Some of Phnom Penh's most important cultural sites as well as dozens of pubs, restaurants and shops sit along the picturesque park-lined riverfront overlooking the chaktomuk - the confluence of the Tonle Sap, Mekong and Bassac Rivers. The Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda and the National Museum are clustered together between Street 178 and 240 and restaurants and pubs line the riverfront road Sisowath Quay, stretching north from the Royal Palace area all the way to Street 104 near Wat Phnom. Visit the Royal Palace and National Museum and stroll up the riverfront for a drink or a meal or to do some shopping. Just off the riverfront, Street 240 behind the Royal Palace harbors several restaurants and high-quality boutiques and Street 178 next to the National Museum is known as 'Art Street' and is dotted with interesting little art galleries and silk shops. Early risers, check out the spectacular sunrise over the river in front of the Royal Palace area.
River Cruises
Short river and sunset cruises along the Phnom Penh riverfront are easy to arrange and offer an interesting view of the city.
A tour cruise typically takes about 1 - 2 hours and runs up the Tonle Sap River along the central riverfront area providing a picturesque view of the Royal Palace and Phnom Penh skyline, and then across the Tonle Sap and up the Mekong River to view floating fishing villages. (Photography: Best lighting in the early morning as the low sun illuminates the riverfront.) Longer cruises are also possible and can be tailored to your requirements - upriver tours to villages and paddies, dinner and party cruises, sunset cruises, trips to Silk Island.
Boat trips can be arranged through your hotel or travel agent or you can deal with the operators directly. Tourist boats are clustered together on the river along Sisowath Quay just north of the Phnom Penh Port. Starting at around $20-$25/hour, depending on the duration and number of passengers.
CamboCruise
Regularly scheduled, daily river cruises and excursions departing the Phnom Penh Floating Port on a western managed boat. Cruises depart every day, on schedule without fail. All cruises offer buffet meals (optional), full bar and lots of extras including live traditional Cambodian music, free filtered water and exceptionally good service.
The Silk Island Lunch Cruise departs at Noon and returns at 4:00PM, including lunch buffet and Silk Island tour. $34 with buffet, $24 without the buffet.
A 2 hour Sunset Dinner Cruise departs at 5:00PM daily and return at 7:00PM. $24 with buffet, $15 without the buffet.
It is best to book online through the CamboCruise website, though you can also book through your hotel or a travel agent, but make sure to specify that you want the CamboCruise tour. All cruises depart in front of Yi Sang Riverside / Tourist Information Center, just south of the Royal Palace. You can usually even just show up at the dock just before departure. If you do show up without advanced booking, ignore touts at the Port that try to direct you to other boats.
Tel 092-290077www.CamboCruise.com
KKS Travel
Riverboat offering daily sunset (4PM-6PM) and evening ‘firefly’ (6:30PM-8PM) boat cruises on the Tonle Sap and Mekong. Music and cold drinks. W.C. on boat.
Tel 016-994161
Silk Island (Koh Dach)
Admission: None
Location: In the Mekong River located about 1-hour boat ride from Phnom Penh. See above for boats to the island.
For those with an interest in Cambodian silks and silk weaving, set aside a half-day for a boat trip to a rural weaving village on Koh Dach (aka ‘Silk Weaving Island,’) a nearby island up the Mekong River. The weaving village is a typical rural Cambodian village, dedicated almost entirely to silk weaving - people operating hand looms under most of the houses, others dying and spinning silk on spinning wheels made of bicycle parts. The area does not receive a lot of tourists. Wander the village to observe the activities, and expect silk sellers to try to hawk their wares.
Arrange a visit through your guesthouse, travel agent or see tour/boat operators. CamboCruise (see above) offers regularly scheduled daily tours to the islands. If you want to do it yourself boats can be chartered for around $20/hour and take about 2 hours round trip plus the time you want to spend there. The boat may stop at ‘Mekong Island’ and some other weaving houses along the way. Make sure that the boat operator understands that you want to go all the way to the silk village on Koh Dach.
Phnom Penh City Sights: Khmer Rouge History
From April 17, 1975 until January 7, 1979, the brutal, ultra-Communist Khmer Rouge regime (i.e. the Red Khmer) controlled the whole of Cambodia, then known as 'Democratic Kampuchea.' The Khmer Rouge was headed by Saloth Sar, nom de guerre Pol Pot. During their short reign between one and two and a half million Cambodians perished, some killed outright, others dying from disease, malnutrition, neglect and mistreatment.
Some of the horrific remnants of the Khmer Rouge regime can be seen at the Choeung Ek Memorial (the ‘Killing Fields’) and the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum. Though the Khmer Rouge were driven from power in 1979, they retreated to the mountains and border areas, persisting until their final defeat and dissolution in 1998.
Surviving KR leaders are only now facing the court. Kaing Guek Eav, a.k.a. ‘Duch,’ director of the infamous S-21 prison was found guilty by the ECCC in 2010. Proceedings against other defendants are currently underway. Pol Pot died in 1998, never having faced justice.
Choeung Ek Memorial (The Killing Fields)
Hours: 7:30AM - 5:30PM
Admission: $6.00
Location: 15 km southwest of Phnom Penh - Take Monireth 8.5 km past the bridge at Street 271
Many of the Cambodians who perished under the Khmer Rouge regime ended up dumped in one of the dozens of ‘killing fields’ that can be found scattered across the country. The killing fields were essentially ad hoc places of execution and dumping grounds for dead bodies during the Khmer Rouge regime (1975-1979.) After the Khmer Rouge regime, memorials were set up at many of the sites, some containing the bones and remnants of victims gathered from the area.
Prior to 1975, Choeung Ek just outside Phnom Penh was a orchard and a Chinese cemetery. But during the Khmer Rouge regime the area became one of the infamous killing fields. This particular killing field is the site of the brutal executions of more than 17,000 men, women and children, most of whom had first suffered through interrogation, torture and deprivation in the S-21 Prison (now the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum) in Phnom Penh. The Choeung Ek Memorial is now a group of mass graves, killing areas and a memorial stupa containing thousands of human skulls and long bones.
The memorial is about a 20-40 minute drive from the center of Phnom Penh. Guided tours through the area are available and reasonably priced multi-lingual guides are available at the site. There is also a small souvenir shop as well. For sake of historical context, combine your trip to Choeung Ek with a visit to Toul Sleng Genocide Museum (the former S-21 Prison) in Phnom Penh. (See below.) Also see David Chandler’s book, ‘Voices of S-21’ for the most systematic and complete account to date of the history and operation of the S-21 Prison.
Toul Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21)
Hours: 8:00AM-5:00PM, daily. Closed for lunch.
Admission: $3.00
Location: Corner of Street 113 & Street 350
Prior to 1975, Toul Sleng was a high school - a set of classroom buildings in a walled compound. When the Khmer Rouge came to power in 1975 they converted into the S-21 prison and interrogation facility, administered by Kaing Guek Eav, a.k.a. ‘Duch.’ Inmates at the prison were held in tiny brick cubicles and systematically tortured, sometimes over a period of months, to extract the desired ‘confessions,’ after which the victim was inevitably executed at the killing field of Choeung Ek just outside the city. S-21 processed over 17,000 people, less than a score of whom are known to have survived.
The Tuol Sleng compound now serves as a museum, a memorial and a testament to the madness of the Khmer Rouge regime. Much has been left in the state it was in when the Khmer Rouge abandoned it in January 1979. The prison kept extensive records, leaving thousands of photos of their victims, many of which are on display. Paintings of torture at the prison by Vann Nath, a survivor of Toul Sleng, are also exhibited. For more on S-21 check out David Chandler’s book, ‘Voices from S-21.’
Domrey Travel & Tours
Half day bus tour to two historic museums - S21 and Choeung Ek Memorial, “the Killing Fields.” Price includes English speaking tour guide, audio tour, introductory documentary, wifi available on the bus and complimentary drinking water.
Tel 070-745284
www.bustourkillingfields.com
Kingdom Brewery
Brewery Tours
Admission: $7.00
Location: #1748 National Route #5, Russei Keo district
Tel: 023-430180-2
Kingdom Breweries, brewers of Kingdom Pilsner and Dark Lager, offers regular guided tours of their brewery. For a tour drop by the brewery Monday-Friday 1:00PM-5:00PM, Saturday 2:00PM-5:00PM. Admission $7.00. After the tour there is the traditional stop at the brewery bar, the Taproom, to sample the product.
Cerevisia Craft Brewery
Location: #9, St. 29 Cerevisia Craft Brewery, In Phnom Penh, Craft Brewhouse is on a mission: To create damn fine beer. Crafting full-bodied brews with iconic aromatics and a pleasing finish, we are an innovative young brewery seeking to distance ourselves from the lager-swilling masses. At Craft Brewhouse, we don’t cut corners. You will not find us in every tap room, only the finest.
Traditional Markets
In Cambodia it is the women who take charge of trade...
Market is held everyday from six o'clock...
they display their goods on matting spread upon the ground.
Each has an allotted place...
- excerpt from The Customs of Cambodia by Zhou Daguan circa 1300AD
'Phsar means ‘market’ and a visit to at least one traditional phsar is a must. A typical traditional market is a sprawling ground level affair, open-air but covered, crowded with rows of booths and stalls. If you visit only one or two markets in Phnom Penh, begin with the Phsar Tuol Thom Poung (Russian Market) and Phsar Thmey (Central Market.) Both offer curios, souvenirs and a cultural shopping adventure. Other traditional markets such have fewer items for tourists but can still be culturally and photographically interesting. The markets open and close with the sun but are fairly sleepy between 11:30AM and 2:00PM.
Central Market (Phsar Thmei)
Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Admission: None
Location: Corner of Street 130 and Street 63
This distinctive building is a city landmark - a unique Art Deco interpretation of a traditional market. Four arms of the market converge in a soaring dome at the hub, perhaps reflecting the four arms of the chaktomuk (the convergence of the Mekong River.) Prior to 1935 the market area was a swampy lake known as Beng Decho that received the runoff during the rainy season. The lake was drained and the market constructed in 1935-37 during the French colonial period, and originally dubbed the ‘Grand Market.’
The central section of the market building displays an amazing collection of gems and jewelry. Souvenir vendors along the central entrance walk offer curios, statuary, handicrafts, silks, t-shirts, postcards, etc. (‘Phsar Thmey’ is properly translated ‘New Market’, but ‘Central Market’ has caught on in English.)
Russian Market (Phsar Toul Tom Poung) (see market map)
Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Admission: None
Location: Street 450, between Streets 155 and 163
This market became the foreigner’s market during the 1980’s when most of the foreigners in Cambodia were Russians, hence the name ‘Russian Market.’ It is of far less architectural interest than the Central Market but has a larger, more varied selection of souvenirs, curios and silks.
The Russian Market became the foreigner’s market during the 1980’s when most of the foreigners in Cambodia were Russians, hence the name ‘Russian Market.’ It is of far less architectural interest than the Central Market but has a larger, more varied selection of souvenirs, curios and silks. Also unlike the Central Market this is a classic traditional market - a sprawling, single level collection of stalls - and offers a larger, more varied selection of souvenirs, curios and silks. It is also one of the best markets in town for fabrics and has the largest selection of DVDs of all the traditional markets. Most of the DVD vendors are on the south side as are most of the visitor-oriented places, but the rest of the market is well worth exploring. There are some good local food and drink stands in the middle of the market.
Phsar Kandal
Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Admission: None
Location: Street 450, between Streets 155 and 163
A typical, sprawling, low-slung local market similar to Phsar Chas. Meat, vegetables, fruits and tailors fill the north half while jewelers and electronics stalls are located in the building next door. It’s a very local scene but as the market is only a couple of blocks off the riverfront tourists occasionally find their way to the coffee stalls and noodle shops. There is a comparatively large Vietnamese population living in the area around Phsar Kandal, which and is reflected in the character of the market - the food, the dress and the language.
Old Market (Phsar Chas)
Phsar Chas not at all geared to tourists, carrying such items as fruits and vegetables, hardware, second hand clothes, motorcycle parts and religious items. The late afternoon shopping hour along Street 110 and Street 108 makes for a confusing, dirty, potentially photogenic scene. There has been a market on this site since at the earliest days of the French colonial period (and probably much longer) when it sat next to a now reclaimed river inlet.
Night Market (Phsar Reatrey)
Phnom Penh’s new Night Market on the riverfront is aimed squarely at visitors and tourists, offering a wide and varied selection of Cambodian handicrafts silks, art, curios and souvenirs. Currently the Night Market opens from Thursday to Sunday, starting up at about 5:00PM and runs until at least 10:00 or 11:00PM. Located in the park between Street 106 and 108 on the riverfront. Stop in as you stroll up the riverfront
Cambodia has a long and rich history of classical dance, shadow puppetry and circus, and it has also become tradition for visitors to Cambodia to attend at least one traditional performance, most often an ‘Apsara Dance Performance.’ Dozens of restaurants in Siem Reap host nightly performances, but there are only a few places in Phnom Penh offering regularly scheduled shows, and for that reason the shows that are available often offer something a bit unique. It can have a somewhat more authentic, less canned feeling than what you may find at some of the 'buffet & dance mills' in Siem Reap.
Traditional Dance Performance @ the National Museum
The beautiful gardens of the National Museum are the setting for each 60-minute choreographed performance, including several different traditional classical and folk dances. Discover the diversity of Cambodian culture and traditional arts through original and enjoyable pieces.
Performances (October - March): Mon - Sat, 7:00PM
Performances (April - September): Mon - Sat, 7:00PM
Admission: $15
Located in the garden of the National Museum
Tel: 017-998570
bookings@cambodianlivingarts.org
www.cambodianlivingarts.org
Sovanna Phum Art Association
Striving to revive and promote Cambodian culture. Classical, Folk and Contemporary dance, Shadow theatre, Circus and Music are performed for local and international audiences. Also active in promoting inter-cultural exchanges by interacting with artists from other countries as well as working with NGO/IOs on different educational and awareness projects. Also available for private and commercial events.
Performances every Friday and Saturday, 7:30PM.
Admission: Adult : $10; Children: $5
#166 Street 99
Tel: 012-837056, 012-846020
www.sovannaphumtheatre.com
www.facebook.com/sovannaphum.art
Cooking Classes
Feel Good Cooking School / Street Food Tours
Khmer cooking classing by experienced Cambodian cooking teachers at Feel Good Cafe. Featuring a trip to a traditional market to shop for ingredients. In class, individual cooking stations. Also offering Evening Street Food Tours.
#79 Street 136 (Feel Good Cafe)
Tel: 098-252533
La Table Khmere
Well-reviewed Cambodian cooking classes in Boeung Keng Kang 1 (BKK1) at La Table Khmere restaurant. Daily, half-day classes, morning and afternoon, including a trip to the market and hands-on preparation in a modern kitchen environment.
#11A Street 278, BKK1 (La Table Khmere restaurant)
Tel: 012-238068
www.phnompenh-cooking-class.com
The Architecture of Phnom Penh
Architecturally speaking, Phnom Penh is a comparatively new city. Prior to the late 19th century the city was but a few pagodas and clusters of wooden structures along the riverfront. Almost every currently existing structure in Phnom Penh was built after the beginning of the French colonial period in 1863. The oldest part of the city stretches from the Wat Phnom area south to the Royal Palace, and is also where you will find most of the surviving colonial era structures.
‘Chinese shophouse’ style buildings dominate the city, characterized by deep narrow apartments composed of a combined ground-floor businessfront and upstairs residence. Standing in distinctive difference, European influenced colonial period structures are interspersed through the central city. At the height of the colonial period Phnom Penh was reputed to be the most beautiful city in French Indochina - recalling Paris in its manicured parks and picturesque boulevards lined with ornate villas.
The historical architecture of the old city center may be divided into three broad categories:
1) The ubiquitous ‘Chinese shophouse-style’ structures, some as old as the late 19th century but most later - from the 1900s through the 1960s.
2) Late-19th/early-20th century French Colonial buildings encompassing a range of influences and styles. Early villa-style residences and public buildings display an eclectic mix of European influences. Slightly later structures such as Phsar Thmei reflect the Art Deco movement and other western styles. Also of this period, ‘Colonial Traditional’ style buildings such as the National Museum that draw heavily on traditional Cambodian themes. Most of Phnom Penh’s colonial-era highlights are located within the city center with clusters near the Royal Palace, around Post Office Square and Wat Phnom, and dotting Norodom Blvd from Sihanouk to Wat Phnom.
3) ‘New Khmer Architecture’ of the late-1950s/60s, such as the Chaktomuk Theatre and Independence Monument, built in the post-colonial ‘Golden-era’ and displaying a modern but distinctively Cambodian direction. There are only a few examples in the city center.
For more on the architecture of Phnom Penh check out the books: ‘Phnom Penh Then and Now,’ ‘Cultures of Independence’ and ‘Building Cambodia: New Khmer Architecture 1953-1970.’
Pagodas (Wats)
Cambodia is a Theravada Buddhist country, and in Phnom Penh you are never far from a Buddhist pagoda (wat.) Dozens of wats dot the city with at least one located in almost every neighborhood. Though many of the wats are comparatively modern, Phnom Penh’s original five wats were established in the 15th century and all are still functioning.
Pagoda grounds are colorful and photogenic places and most are open and welcoming to the general public. But if you visit a pagoda please be respectful of the place and people. Dress conservatively, remove your hat on pagoda grounds, remove your shoes before entering the vihear (main temple) and respect the privacy of monks and worshippers. The following short list of pagodas include some of the city’s more historic and photogenic wats, as well as being in areas popular with visitors. See Ray Zepp’s book ‘A Field Guide to Cambodia Pagodas’ for a more complete list and description of Phnom Penh’s pagodas.
Wat Botum
Location: Street 7, 100 meters from the
Royal Palace
Wat Botum is a colorful, photogenic wat, the compound crowded with ornate stupas, including the towering ‘Buddha’s Relic Stupa.’ Though Wat Botum took its present structure in 1937 it is one of the city’s original wats, possibly founded by King Ponhea Yat in the 15th century, the first king to rule from Phnom Penh.
Wat Koh
Location: Located in the heart of the city, on Monivong and Street 174.
One of the city’s five original wats, established in the early 15th century. The main building was destroyed in the 1970s and rebuilt in the 90s. This pagoda has become a refuge for stray and abandoned house pets. If you want to adopt a cat, this is the place to come.
Wat Langka
Location: Just southwest of the Independence Monument
In Boeung Keng Kang (BKK1) near the Independence Monument. Reputedly one of Phnom Penh’s original wats (1422). Estab-lished as a sanctuary for the Holy Writings and a meeting place for Khmer and Sri Lankan monks, and named in honor of the meetings.
Location: North end of Norodom Blvd.
Small hill crowned by an active wat (pagoda) marks the legendary founding place of the Phnom Penh. The hill is the site of constant activity, with a steady stream of the faithful trekking to the vihear, shrines and fortune tellers on top and a constellation of vendors, visitors and motodups at the bottom.
Wat Ounalom
Location: Sothearos Blvd. about 200m north of the Royal Palace
This sprawling pagoda in the heart of the riverfront district is as impressive from across the street as the interior - its golden temples and towering stupas defining the streetscape. It is also particularly accustomed to receiving walk-in visitors. Wat Ounalom is the home to the Buddhist patriarch and is reputedly the oldest Buddhist foundation in the city, probably predating the abandonment of Angkor in the 15th century.
Sight Seeing
There is a lot of Cambodian history within a daytrip’s distance of Phnom Penh. Silk Island, just an hour’s boat ride away, offers a unique opportunity to see a traditional, working silk weaving village. An hour or two south of Phnom Penh, the Angkorian ruins of Takeo province, though not as impressive as the ruins near Siem Reap, still rank amongst the most important in Cambodia. And an hour west of the city, the picturesque 17th-19th century remains of the royal city of Oudong allow you to explore the period of Cambodian history between Angkor and the colonial period that is neglected in most tours. And just the process of getting to these sites provides a good glimpse of Cambodian rural life - scenic rice paddies, stilted villages and countryside pagodas.
Most of the places listed are too far for a tuk-tuk. It is easiest to arrange a tour or transportation through a travel agent or your hotel, usually a daily tourist van. DIY options include chartering a taxi, renting a motorcycle or for the hard core do-it-your-selfer, taking a public bus to the nearby city and ask to be let off at the site or turn-off.
Day Trips & Nearby Destinations
Silk Island (Koh Dach)
Located in the Mekong River located about 1-hour boat ride from Phnom Penh.
Admission: None
For those with an interest in Cambodian silks and silk weaving, set aside a half-day for a boat trip to a rural weaving village on Koh Dach (aka ‘Silk Weaving Island,’) a nearby island up the Mekong River. The weaving village is a typical rural Cambodian village, dedicated almost entirely to silk weaving - people operating hand looms under most of the houses, others dying and spinning silk on spinning wheels made of bicycle parts. The area does not receive a lot of tourists. Wander the village to observe the activities, and expect silk sellers to try to hawk their wares.
Arrange a visit through your guesthouse, travel agent or see tour/boat operators. Cambo
Cruise (www.CamboCruise.com 092-290077) offers regularly scheduled daily cruise & tours to the island for $24-$34 inclusive. If you want to do it yourself, boats can be chartered for around $20-$25/hour and take about 2-3 hours round trip plus the time you want to spend there. The boat may stop at ‘Mekong Island.’ Make sure that the boat operator understands that you want to go all the way to the silk village on Koh Dach.a
Oudong
Route #5, 1-hour west of Phnom Penh
The abandoned royal city of Oudong sits amongst the hills west of Phnom Penh. Oudong was the capital city of Cambodia from the 17th century until 1866 when the capital was moved to Phnom Penh. Several temples, stupas and other structures cover three hills. The walk up the hill provides an excellent countryside view. The hill is crowned with stupas containing the remains of several Cambodian kings including King Monivong (1927-1941) and King Ang Duong (1845-1859). The earliest structure is from the 13th century. These hills were also the site of some of the Khmer Rouge’s most prolonged resistance against the encroaching Vietnamese army in 1979. Several new temples and shrines have recently been installed on the hill. For something completely different, take a side trip to ‘Prasat Nokor Vimean Sour’, a concrete, unduly ornate, semi-replica of Angkor Wat built circa 1998.
Take a Kampong Chhnang/Oudong bound bus. Get off at the billboard in Oudong town and take a motodup the rest of the way to the site.
Phnom Da/Angkor Borei
Takeo Province, 2-hours south of Phnom Penh
Angkor Borei is a small town in the area of several ruins and archaeological digs. The area has been continuously inhabited for at least 2500 years and has yielded artifacts dating from the Neolithic period, the Funan period (4th/5th century AD) and Chenla (8th century AD) as well as the later Angkorian period (9th-15th century AD.) There are no significant temple ruins at Angkor Borei but there is a very interesting little museum displaying artifacts from the area and providing information on recent archaeological digs.
The hill, Phnom Da, sits about 20km from Angkor Borei and is crowned by an impressive 11th century Angkorian-era prasat (tower) displaying some carvings in pretty good condition. The temple was constructed under King Rudravarman and dedicated to Shiva. Further down the hill is the unique little temple ruin Ashram Maha Rosei, quite unlike other Khmer monuments in both design and adornment. Constructed in the late 7th-early 8th century, during the pre-Angkorian Chenla period, under King Bahavavarman. The temple shows signs of non-Khmer influence and has unusual north-facing entrance. The design is reminiscent of Prasat Ashram Isay in the Sambor Prey Kuk group in Kampong Thom.
Getting there: During the dry season, Phnom Da can be reached by road or boat. In the wet season, it can only be reached by boat. By road: Take the Takeo bound bus (NR2) to the Phnom Chisor turnoff (52km from Phnom Penh.) Take a motodup or taxi to Phnom Chisor and then on to Phnom Da. By boat, take the bus to Takeo town. Pick up a boat to Angkor Borei and Phnom Da. During the dry season you will stop well short of the hill and will have to hike a ways.
Phnom Chisor
Takeo Province, off Rte 2, 2 hours south of Phnom Penh
At the top of Phnom Chisor sit some very nicely preserved 10th/11th century AD Angkorian era ruins. The temple was constructed under King Suryavar-man I during a period when the Angkorian-era Khmer Empire was nearing its apex. As most Angkorian temples of the period, this temple is Hindu, dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu. Scenes including Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu are still visible, carved on some lintels and pediments. The 503 steps to the temple on top of the hill make for a fairly vigorous climb but the quality of the ruins and the amazing view of the countryside make the effort well worth it.
Prasat Neang Khmau
Takeo Province, off Rte 2, 1.5 hours south of Phnom Penh
Standing next to an active pagoda, Prasat Neang Khmau consists of two deteriorating brick prasats (towers) built in the Angkorian-era in the 10th century A.D. under King Jayavarman IV. There was probably at least one more ancient prasat where the modern pagoda now sits. Prasat Neang Khmau was originally dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. The temple complex is named after Neang Khmau, ‘Black Lady’, a modern-era statue located in front of the temples. At the 51km road marker. The temples are on a small hill right next to the road.
Tonle Bati/Ta Prohm
Off Route #2, 1 hour south of Phnom Penh
Tonle Bati is a small lake and popular picnic spot for the locals - bamboo picnic stands and mats by the water. On the road to Tonle Bati there are two Angkorian era temples, Ta Prohm and Yeay Peau. Both temples were built under Jayavarman VII in the late 12th century during the same period that Bayon and Angkor Thom in Siem Reap were constructed. Ta Prohm is the more extensive and impressive of the two, displaying a number of very well-preserved carvings. Yeay Peau is a single sandstone tower situated next to an active pagoda displaying some carvings. The area has been occupied since the pre-Angkorian Funan period and Ta Prohm was modified and extended as late as the 16th century.
Ta Khmau Zoo / Phnom Tamao / Prasat Tamao
Off Route #2, 39km, 1 hour south of Phnom Penh
The Phnom Tamao area is a popular destination for weekend holidayers from Phnom Penh, offering picnicking, a zoo and some minor Angkorian-era ruins. The Ta Khmau Zoological Gardens is Cambodia’s newest and best zoo displaying a variety of animals including lions, tigers, bears, birds and more. An 11th century, Suryavarman I temple ruin in very poor condition (Prasat Tamao) sits at the top of Phnom Tamao. Located off of Route #2 at the 39km mile marker. Turn right. 1000 riel entrance fee.
Tour Operators
Cambodia Motorcycle Adventures
Motorcycle touring out of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. One day and multi-day tours out of Phnom Penh available. Multi-day Angkor and full country tours.
Tel: 017-768624, 017-779413
www.cambodiamotorcycleadventures.com
Siem Reap and Phnom Penh
CamboCruise.com
Regularly scheduled, daily river cruises and excursions departing in front of Yi Sang Riverside/Tourist Information Center just south of the Royal Place. The Silk Island Lunch Cruise departs at 12:00PM and returns at 4:00PM, including optional lunch buffet. A 2 hour Sunset Cruise Dinner departs at 5:00PM, including optional dinner buffet. Live traditional music, free filtered water, full bar and excellent service on all cruises. Tel 092-290077
cambocruise@icloud.com
www.CamboCruise.com
CamboCruise boat at Phnom Penh Tourist Information Center Riverside
Dancing Roads
Specializing in dirt bike tours. Explore coast, jungle, temple ruins. Custom tours. Consistantly good reviews.
www.dancingroads.com
Siem Reap and Phnom Penh
Hidden Cambodia Adventure Tours
Single and multi-day all-inclusive, high end, cultural, ad- venture and humanitarian tours by 4WD, dirtbike and car to Koh Ker, Preah Vihear, Preah Khan temples and historic KR area, Anlong Veng. Tonle Sap Lake tours.
Tel: 012-655201, Tel: 012-655201
C/O Siem Reap Post Office, P.O Box 93058, Siem Reap
MotoGirl Tour
Unique city motorcycle tours conducted by female tour guides. A variety of tours available - sights, adventure, culture, nightlife.
Phnom Penh Tel: 015-292952
www.motogirltour.com
Phnom Penh offers a fairly steady stream of parties, art exhibitions, live music, openings, cultural events and such. For the latest information on up-coming events there are several print publications floating around, including monthly magazines Asia Life (parties, cultural events, exhibitions, concerts) and Bayon Pearnik (pub crawls, music, parties and fun stuff) and few weekly mini-magazines such as 7 Days by the Phnom Penh Post.
Arts Exhibitions and Galleries
Cambodia's art scene has begun to blossom as a new generation of Cambodian artists come into their own. Art spaces offering changing exhibitions:
Bophana Center
#64 Street 200, Phnom Penh
Tel: 023-992174
Java Café & Gallery
#56E1 Sihanouk Blvd, Phnom Penh
Tel: 023-987420
Culture and Arts: Events
Amrita Performing Arts
An international performing arts production company working to promote and sustain the revival and preservation of traditional Cambodian performing arts.
#128-G9, Sothearos, Phnom Penh
Tel: 023-220424
Cambodia Living Arts
Currently offering 'Traditional Dance Performances,' a series of three rotating performances, showcasing a range of traditional Cambodian performing arts. Featuring more than Apsara dances, offering the chance to discover the diversity of Cambodian culture in the garden of the National Museum. Traditional Dance Performances, an initiative by non-for profit Cambodian Living Arts, also aims to create regular, well-paid work for emerging arts professionals in Cambodia. Low season: June 6 - August 30 shows on Fridays & Saturdays only. Starts at 7:00PM. Doors open at 6:45PM. Tickets: $15. (No shows in the months of April, May and September.)
Tel: 017-998570
Institut Français du Cambodge (formerly the French Cultural Center)
Events, lectures and exhibitions. Le Cinema hosts French films at 6:30PM every few days. Watch for monthly event schedule brochures.
#214, Street 184, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Tel: 023-721383
Java Cafe
A café set in an exhibition space, offering regularly changing exhibitions showcasing contemporary artists.
#56 E1, Sihanouk Blvd., Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Tel: 023-987420
www.javaarts.org
Sovanna Phum Art Association
Sovanna Phum Art Association aims to revive and promote the treasure of Cambodian culture. Classical, Folk and Contemporary dance, Shadow theatre, Circus and Music are performed to local and international audiences in or out our theatre. Also active in promoting inter-cultural exchanges by interacting with artists from other countries as well as working with NGO/IOs on different educational and awareness campaign projects. Sovanna Phum's artists can be hired for private or commercial events. Performances every Friday and Saturday at 7:30PM. Adult : $10; Children: $5
#166 Street 99, corner of St. 484, Phnom Penh
Tel: 012-846020
012-837056
www.facebook.com/sovannaphum.art
Brewery Tour
Kingdom Breweries (Cambodia), the producers of the premium beer Kingdom Pilsner, offers regular tours of its brewery facilities just north of the city. Kingdom Breweries in Phnom Penh has been in operation since 2010 and Kingdom Pilsner is available at bars and restaurants throughout Cambodia. Enjoy a complete tour of the brewery and stop in a the brewery bar, the Taproom overlooking the Tonle Sap River for a Kingdom Pilsner and Visitors are welcome to check out how the most premium Cambodia beer is made as brewery tours can be arranged and get to enjoy the Kingdom's pride at the brewery's Taproom.
Located at #1748, National Route #5, Russei Keo district, Kandal Province.
Tours are available Mon - Sat, 1:00PM-5:00PM.
Call for reservations Tel: 023-430180-2
enquiries@kingdombreweries.com
Classes
Cooking Classes
The Cambodia Cooking Class
The Cambodia Cooking Class has been running since 2005. Begins with a tour around a local market. At the cookery school itself it's hands-on action. You'll make everything from scratch with fresh ingredients. Classes are held every day on a rooftop terrace. Book through frizz restaurant.
#67 Street 240
Tel: 012-524801
www.cambodia-cooking-class.com
Feel Good Cooking School / Street Food Tours
Khmer cooking classing by experienced Cambodian cooking teachers at Feel Good Cafe. Featuring a trip to a traditional market to shop for ingredients. In class, individual cooking stations. Also offering Evening Street Food Tours.
#79 Street 136 (Feel Good Cafe)
Tel: 098-252533
La Table Khmere
Well-reviewed Cambodian cooking classes in Boeung Keng Kang 1 (BKK1) at La Table Khmere restaurant. Daily, half-day classes, morning and afternoon, including a trip to the market and hands-on preparation in a modern kitchen environment.
#11A Street 278, BKK1 (La Table Khmere restaurant)
Tel: 012-238068
www.phnompenh-cooking-class.com
Dance and shadow puppets
Sovanna Phum Art Association
In addition to hosting regularly scheduled traditional performances, Sovanna Phum Art Association also offers workshops in traditional Khmer arts such as Shadow puppet making & performing, classical & folk dance and how to play Khmer traditional music instruments. Private classes in the art of shadow puppet making are available on request.
#166, Street 99, Phnom Penh
Open Mon-Sat.
Tel: 023-987564, 012-846020
Fitness centers/Gymnasiums
Most of the major hotels have gyms offering complete, modern facilities. For early risers, every morning at the crack of dawn people congregate in the park in front of the Royal Palace to jog, walk, stretch, do Tai Chi and calisthenics.
The Great Duke Phnom Penh Fitness Center
Air- con, cardio/weight equipment. Swimming pool. Memberships.
#296 Mao Tse Toung Blvd., Phnom Penh
Tel: 023-424888
Phnom Climb Community Gym
Indoor climbing, bouldering, classes, workshops, kids activities. Open: 3:00PM - 9:00PM (8:00PM on Sunday); Saturday 8:00AM - 11:00AM, 3:00PM - 8:00PM.
#345, St 460, Toul Tom Poung, Phnom Penh
Tel: 017-897105
Physique Club, Hotel Cambodiana
Air-con, wieght machines, swimming pool, sauna, steam.
#313 Sisowath Quay Blvd., Phnom Penh
Tel: 023-218189
The Place 2
All new, five-star gym, state-of-the-art equipment, sauna, Jacuzzi, classes, swimming pool, table tennis, internet lounge.
#11 Street 51, BKK1 (The Place 2), Phnom Penh
Tel: 023-726999
Golf
Cambodia offers a limited but slowly growing number of golf courses. The Cambodia Golf and Country Club is the best and most popular 18-hole course in the Phnom Penh area, sitting about 35km from the city. There are now three comparative new courses in and near Siem Reap Angkor in the west of Cambodia.
Cambodia Golf and Country Club
Cambodia's first golf course and the most popular in the Phnom Penh area. 18 hole golf course spread over 120 acres, palm trees, several water features. Clubhouse, restaurant, swimming pool, tennis courts.
Golf Course: Rte #4, 35km south of Phnom Penh
Tel: 023-363666
Hash House Harriers (P2H3)
In the time honored colonial tradition of curing the weekend’s hangover through exercise, beer and good cheer, the Phnom Penh chapter of the Hash House Harriers meets every Sunday at 2:00PM for a run, fun and food. Gather in front of the Railway Station at Monivong Blvd and Street 106. Phnom Penh
Tel: 099-353325
www.p2h3.com
Horseback Riding
Cambodia Country Club
Equestrian center at the Cambodia Country Club with 30 horses, complete stables, arenas, open riding country. Offering lessons at all levels - basic riding skills, kid’s classes, dressage, jumping, vaulting and pony club for the kids. Lead trails for the kids. Sports club and restaurant.
Street 2004, Russey Keo District, Phnom Penh
Tel: 023-885591/2
www.cambodian-country-club.com
Ice Skating
Ice Park Cambodia
The comparatively new Ice Park Cambodia offers a large, state of the art ice skating rink as well as skate rental and skating lesson. . Both have skate rental and the Ice Park offers skating lessons. and is open 9AM-10PM.
Located in AEON Mall, Phnom Penh
Kid’s City Asia
Asia State-of-the-art indoor entertainment center for kids of all ages. Ice skating, Science Center, Clip & Climb, Laser Tag, Playground, dining, kid’s clothing shops.
#162 Sihanouk Blvd., Phnom Penh
Tel: 012-523218
www.kidscityasia.com
Movies
The city now sports several modern movie theaters, most in the malls, showing the latest first-runs and blockbusters. The facilities at the major theaters are state of the art - 2D, 3D, 4D, and very comfy VIP seating. There are also a few old school traveler-friendly small community movie houses with regularly scheduled movies, often classics, in a sofa lounge atmosphere, with food and drink available.
The Empire Movie House
The movie house sits above The Empire restaurant and bar. Very comfy, 22-seat, fully air-conditioned, sound-proof theater. Chairs, tables, throw cushions and mats, your choice. Showing the classics and the latest movies, afternoons and evenings on weekdays, and an extra matinee showing on the weekends. Enjoy food and drinks from the restaurant/bar, served to you in the theater. One block off the riverfront.
Opening hours:
Monday - Friday: 4:00PM - 11:00PM
Saturday - Sunday: 1:00PM - 11:00PM
Happy Hour daily 4:00PM - 6:00PM
All house wine, cocktails and mixed drinks $2.50
Thursday steak special - Steak meal $7.50 (usually $12)
#34 Street 130 (near corner with Street 5), Phnom Penh
Tel: 015-251971 (English)
077-468243 (Khmer)
The Flicks Festival Movie House
Two uber-comfy movie houses offer blockbusters, film festival winners, documentaries and classics in HD quality on the big screen, in a/c movie rooms. The Flicks 1 has a welcoming bar with lounge deck outside. The Flicks 2 can be found next to the 11 Happy Backpackers on Street 136, ready to serve you cold drinks and fine food. The Flicks 3 @ Gasolina is the open air cinema during the dry season, screening movies on the big screen in a big garden. Cover: $3.50/day. See website for the weekly movie schedule and to make reservations.
The Flicks 1 Community Movie House: #39B, Street 95, BKK3, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
11 Happy Flicks 2: #88-89 St 136, riverside, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
The Flicks 3: #11, St 258, opposite Hotel Cambodiana, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
The Legend Cinema
Phnom Penh’s first and currently only international standard movie theater playing first-run English language movies. Three movie halls with proper theater seats (including a VIP section), a full size screen, THX sound and 2D/3D capability. Popcorn, soft drinks and candy. See website for current showing schedule.
Tel: 088-9549857
www.legend-cinemas.com
Major Cineplex at Aeon Mall
Phnom Penh’s newest international standard movie theater. State-of-the-art theaters. VIP seating. 2D/3D/4DX theaters.
Aeon Mall, Sothearos Blvd., Phnom Penh
Tel: 023-901111
www.majorcineplex.com.kh
Scuba Diving
Scuba Nation PADI 5 Star Instructor Development Center
The pioneers of diving in Cambodia, providing comprehensive diving and snorkeling services, day trips, live-aboards, nitrox and a full range of PADI courses from beginner to instructor. Flexibility is the key: you can do training sessions while ding sight-seeing in Phnom Penh, then finish with a live aboard on the only custom made diving boat in Cambodia.
Phnom Penh Head Office:
#1818Eo, Sothearos Boulevard, Phnom Penh
H/P: +(855)(0)12-715785
Tel/Fax: +(855)(0)23-211850
Sihanouk Ville Serendipity Beach Office:
Mohachai guesthouse, serendipity beach road, Sihanouk Ville, Cambodia.
H/P:+(855)(0)12-604680
Tel: +(855)(0)34-933700
info@divecambodia.com
www.divecambodia.com
Swimming Pools
If you are looking for a refreshing swim or leisurely afternoon lounging poolside, some of the fitness clubs (see previous page), most of the top-end hotels and many of the mid-range hotels allow use of their swimming pools for $4-$10/day.
Here are but a few:
Himawari Hotel
Large pool. Jacuzzi. Gym.
#313, Sisowath Quay, Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)23-214555
Fax: +(855)(0)23-217111
reservation@himawari.com.kh
www.himawarihotel.com
Julianna Hotel
Large pool. Restaurant/drinks.
#16, Street 152 (100m from Tchecoslovaquie Street), Phnom Penh
Tel/Fax: +(855)(0)23-880530-31
hotelpp@online.com.kh
www.julianahotels.com
Patio Hotel
Rooftop infinity pool and bar with city view.
#134Z Street 51, BKKI, Phnom Penh
Tel: 023-997900
Raffles Hotel Le Royal
#92 Rukhak Vithei, Phnom Penh
Tel: 023-981888
Recreation & Activities
The travel and tour agent business is alive and well in Cambodia, with travel agents and tour operators in all the major tourist cities offering personal attention and a wide range of travel, tour and visitor services. It's still possible to just walk into a travel agent and do all your bookings for you. ‘Walk-in’ services usually include services such as air ticketing, tours and guides, bus/boat tickets, car and motorcycle rental, hotel reservations, passport services, visa extensions and foreign visas.
Phnom Penh
There are dozens of travel agencies in Phnom Penh - in-bound/outbound tour operators as wide variety of places offering ‘walk-in’ services, many such places located in tourists areas such as along the riverfront road and in the Boeung Keng Kang 1 area.
2World Travel (Cambodia) Ltd.
Specialist in tailor-made journey in Indochina package tours and beyond (ASEAN and Asia Pacific), inbound or outbound travels & tours operator, package tours for group, family, incentive, leisure, individual, honeymoon tour, soft adventure, trekking, golf package, luxury & VIP, air charter and tours, air travel ticketing agency, worldwide and domestic air ticketing, worldwide and domestic hotel reservations, Cambodian visa extensions, bus/boat ticket reservations, Japan Rail Pass, tour guide or translator, bus, van, car for rentals and travel insurance.
Nº.270E0-E1, Mao Tse Toung Blvd, corner of St. 199, Sangkat Tomnup Teuk, Khan Chamkar Morn, Phnom Penh
Tel: 023-222727, 023-222323, 023-6422727, 012-222623, 095-771919, 016-985400, 077444577
Fax: 023-222525
Skype Lives support ID: bophatravel, tours.2worldtravel, sales.2worldtravel
info@2worldtravel.com tours@2worldtravel.com
www.2worldtravel.com www.a1carrentalincambodia.com
www.cambodiahotelsandtours.com
5Oceans Co., Ltd.
Full walk-in services, flights, hotels, transportation, guides, tours (inbound/outbound). Offering a variety of Cambodia based tours in Siem Reap Angkor, Phnom Penh and beyond. Classic Angkor tours, temple adventure tours, countryside tours, a variety of tours of Phnom Penh including cycling tours.
Tel: 023-221537, 023-986920, 023-221869, 023-5003134
Mobile: 012-540983, 016-651398, 097-7721333
Fax: 023-986931
5oceans@online.com.kh
tickets5oceans1@online.com.kh www.new.5oceanscambodia.com
No.139E0, Street 136 (Oknha In), Phnom Penh
Angkor 7th Travel
Full walk-in services. Outbound, Inbound tours and reservations. International and domestic air ticketing, tours, bus/boat tickets, car rental, worldwide hotel reservations, passport services, Cambodian visa extensions, foreign visas. Daily tours from Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
Tel: 023-885391, 069-777367
Fax: 023-992391
info@angkor7thtravel.com
#62, Street 134, Phnom Penh
Asia Exotic Tours
Full walk-in services. Outbound, Inbound tours and reservations. International and domestic air ticketing, tours, bus/boat tickets, car rental, worldwide hotel reservations, passport services, Cambodian visa extensions, foreign visas.
Tel: 078-820840, 089-342547
sales@asiaexotictours.comwww.asiaexotictours.com
#141, Street 598, Phnom Penh
Cambodia Motorcycle Adventures
Motorcycle touring out of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. One day and multi-day tours out of Phnom Penh available. Multi-day Angkor and full country tours.
Tel: 017-768624, 017-779413
www.cambodiamotorcycleadventures.com
Siem Reap and Phnom Penh
CH World Travel
Walk-in, Outbound, Inbound. Air, bus, boat tickets, car rental, visa services, tours.
Tel: 023-223738, 023-219162
ticketing@chworldtravel.com
#473AEo , Monivong Blvd corner St. 242, Phnom Penh
#228, Monivong Blvd.(93), Phnom Penh
Cina Travel
Full walk-in services. International and domestic air ticketing, tours, bus/boat tickets, car rental, worldwide hotel reservations, passport services, Cambodian visa extensions, foreign visas.
Tel: 023-998775
Hotline: 016-661414
#129Eo, Street 130, Phnom Penh
Dancing Roads
Specializing in dirt bike tours. Explore coast, jungle, temple ruins. Custom tours. Good reviews.
www.dancingroads.com
Diethelm Travel
Inbound and outbound tours specializing in Cambodia and Southeast Asian countries. Full walk-in services. International and domestic air ticketing, bus/boat tickets, tours, car rental, worldwide hotel reservations, passport services, Cambodian visa extensions, foreign visas.
Tel: 023-219151
DT_Cambodia@kh.diethelmtravel.com
#3, 2nd Floor (Sophy & Sina Building, after Aquarius Hotel), Street 240, Phnom Penh
Domrey Travel & Tours
Half day bus tour to two historic museums - S21 and Choeung Ek Memorial, “the Killing Fields.” Price includes English speaking tour guide, audio tour, introductory documentary, wifi available on the bus and complimentary drinking water. Museum entrance fees not included. Itinerary available on website.
Tel 070-745284
www.bustourkillingfields.com
Sisowath Quay, Night Market, Phnom Penh
First Travel
Long established, well-known tour operator. Primarily inbound tour management.
Tel: 023-213301-302
Fax: 023-219326
http://first-travel-cambodia.com
##3C, St. 118, Phnom Penh
Hidden Cambodia Dirt Bike Tours
Hidden Cambodia Adventure Tours
Hidden Cambodia Tours
International Travel specialists to all areas outside of Siem Reap. All inclusive day and multi-day, high end, cultural, adventure and humanitarian tours by 4WD vehicles, dirt bike & car to remote temples and historic locations: Koh Ker, Preah Vihear, Preah Khan and Anlong Veng. Rental of 4WD vehicles, Wrangler Jeep and cars with driver.
Tel: 012-655201
Fax: 063-934412
hiddencambodia@yahoo.com
www.hiddencambodia.com
Street 60, Trang Village, Siem Reap
Hola Travel
Full walk-in services. Outbound, Inbound tours and reservations. International and domestic air ticketing, bus/boat tickets, car rental, worldwide hotel reservations, passport services, Cambodian visa extensions, foreign visas.
Tel: 023-221091
Fax: 023-221094
H/P: 012-238866
#106, Street 15, Phnom Penh
Intra Co.
Inbound, Outbound, Walk-in. Air, boat, bus tickets. Car rental. Tours and tour guides. Import/export, courier, freight forwarding.
Tel: 023-428596
www.intracambodia.com
#2-3 Street 118, Phnom Penh
KKS Travel
Walk-in, outbound, Inbound, tickets, tours, visas. Boat cruise on the Mekong River - sunset and evening.
Tel: 012-311566 012-311577 023-6662888 023-6666637
1) #75, Street 480, Toul Tompoung I
Khiri Travel Cambodia
"Off the beaten track experience throughout Cambodia and Southeast Asia"
Tel: 023-215970
sales.cambodia@khiri.com
#25D, Street 294, Phnom Penh
Krorma Tours
Specializing in outbound tours to Japan. Japan Rail Pass for sale.
Tel: 099-890960
#23D Street 350, Phnom Penh
Larryta Express
Deluxe mini-buses to/from Siem Reap. Bus and car rental.
Tel: 011-202020
www.larryta.com
#99, Sisowath Quay, Phnom Penh
Mekong Heritage Travel
Travel Full service travel agent specialize in Cambodia and SEA. Inbound, outbound packages, tickets, hotels, visas. Walk-in services.
Tel: 023-885806
www.mekongheritage.com
#13, Street 315, Phnom Penh
MRL Travel
Long running full travel agent offering walk-in as well as.
Tel: 023-986998
#136 Street 136, Phnom Penh
MotoGirl Tours
Unique city motorcycle tours conducted by female tour guides. A variety of tours available - sights, adventure, culture, nightlife.
Tel: 015-292952
www.motogirltour.com
Ravy Angkor Tours
Inbound/outbound tours. Full walk-in services. Visas. Specializing in buses, cars and vans (with driver) for rent, for excursions, by the day or longer.
Tel: 023-215618, 023-986772
www.ravyangkortours.com
#3 Street 390, BKK3, Phnom Penh
RTS Asia Travel
Walk-in (ticketing, reservations, insurance, transportation, vehicle rental), tours, visas.
Tel: 023-994086
Hotline: 012-409697
rtsasia@online.com.kh
#22CEO Street 289, Tuol Kok, Phnom Penh
Tour Guide and Vehicle Rental
Cars, vans and buses with/without driver for rent. Tour guide. Airport shuttle
H/P: 012-894155, 097-8828155
bpheap@yahoo.com
www.letgocambodia.com
#16D, St 2003, Phnom Penh
VGS Travel & Tours
Full service travel agent: Walk-in, inbound and outbound. Air tickets, hotel reservations, boat and bus tickets, visas and passport services.
Tel: 023-220252
H/P: 068-538888
Fax: 023-224052
info.vgs@online.com.kh
#213BEo, Street 310, Phnom Penh
V-Silk Travel
Specializing in walk-in traveler services. Flights, boat and bus tickets, hotel reservations, local transportation, tours. Also a silk shop with a moderately deep selection of locally made, hand loomed silks.
Tel: 077-881881, 015-363628
#221 Sisowath Quay, riverfront, Phnom Penh
Worldwide Tours Agency
Inbound, outbound, full walk-in services including air ticketing, hotels reservations, car rental and transportation, noat and bus tickets, tours, Cambodian passports and visas
Tel: 077-999871, 023-966183
ratana@worldwidegroup.com.kh
#135E0 Sisowath Quay, Phnom Penh
World Express Tours
Walk-in services, temple tours, inbound and outbound, air/bus/boat ticketing, hotel reservations, visas, transportation, etc.
Tel: 023-884574, 023-882359
Fax: 023-884787
www.worldexpresstour.com
#34Eo Nehru Blvd (DN), Phnom Penh
#349Eo Charles De Gaulle (217), Phnom Penh
Travel Agents & Tour Operators
The supermarkets, though small by international standards, offer a fairly good selection. Lucky Market is the longest running in town, and its branch at AEON Mall is particularly popular. Bayon Market is quite popular for its large selection and specialty imported items. Danmeat is the go-to international butchery in Phnom Penh.
Amarak
Fresh, locally grown, organic/chemical free fruits, vegetables and meat. Shop at the store or order on-line, delivered free-of-charge to your door. Also imported wines, cheeses and specialty food items.
Kos Krobey village, Sangkat Preak Thmey, Phnom Penh
Tel: 070-526080
Facebook: Amarak Organic Garden
Bayon Market
One of the largest international supermarkets in the city. Specialty items others don’t carry.
#33-34, Street 118 (Russian Blvd.), Phnom Penh
Bloom Café
Cake art gallery, cupcake emporium. Fair-trade coffee.
#40 Street 222, (Between Street 63 and 55), Phnom Penh
Tel: 077-757500
Comme a la Maison
Popular delishop, now with four locations. Fresh baked breads, pastries, cakes, quiches, snacks, terrines, wines and much more. The original in BKK1, as well as the Tonle Sap Street location offer a full restaurant, air-conditioned dining and French dishes.
1) #13 Street 57 (BKK1)
2) #73 Tonle Sap St (Chroy Changvar);
3) Rose Garden Condo, next to Lucky Market, Bassac
4) Kiwi Mart, Street 136 corner 19
5) Thai Huot Monivong, Phsar Thmey
6) Angkor Market Tuol Tom Poung
7) Chip Mong Market, Monivong Blvd corner 322
Tel: 023-360801
www.commealamaison-delicatessen.com
Facebook: CommealamaisonPhnomPenh
Cambodia Harvest Dried Fruit
Dried fruits, jams and pickles made exclusively from Cambodian grown fresh fruit, and produced by people suffering disabilities from landmine injuries. All products made to international health standards. Available at the Cambodian Dried Harvest Fruit showroom, and at stores and shops in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Look for the distinctive green label. Wholesale inquiries welcome.
#27 Street 470 (Toul Tum Poung area), Phnom Penh
Tel: 023-220910
Danmeat
International-standard butcher. Long established and very well reputed. Wide selection of meat and sausages.
#36 Street 200, Phnom Penh
Tel: 097-9292234
DNAK Square
International deli, butchery and grocery.
#197 Street 63, BKK1, Phnom Penh
Tel: 023-226677
Lucky Supermarket
One of the largest and longest running international supermarkets in Phnom Penh. The original on Sihanouk Blvd, 2 blocks east of Monivong. The newest location at the AEON Mall on Sothearos, offering a much larger selection than the Sihanouk supermarket.
1) #160, Sihanouk Blvd., Phnom Penh
2) AEON Mall
Tel: 023-215229
Terrazza
Italian deli. Imported cheese, meats, spices.
#1 Street 282, BKK1, Phnom Penh
Tel: 017-696318
The Shop
Popular western style bakery and deli. Fresh baked breads, pastries, cakes. Sandwiches, salads and soups.
1) #39, Street 240, Phnom Penh
2) #38 Street 377, Tuol Kok, Phnom Penh
Tel: 023-986964www.theshop-cambodia.com
Thai Hout
International supermarket in the city. Some specialty items. Excellent selection of spices
1) #99-105 Monivong Blvd, Phnom Penh
Tel: 023-724623
2) Corner 63/352 (BKK1), Phnom Penh
Tous Les Jours
International bakery with several locations. Breads, cakes, pastries. Receiving good reviews.
Multiple locations
Tel: 023-222266
U-Care
Pharmacy, beauty products, toiletries
1) #26-28 Sothearos Blvd., Phnom Penh
2) Sihanouk (corner Street 55, opposite ANZ Bank), Phnom Penh
3) Corner of Norodom Blvd and Street 136, Phnom Penh
4) #844, Kampuchea Krom Blvd., Phnom Penh
5) #254 Monivong Blvd., Phnom Penh
Tel: 023-222399
The Warehouse
Extensive selection of fine wines from around the world.
#32 Street 240, BKK1, Phnom Penh
Tel: 023-986641
Book Stores
Monument Books is the largest distributor of new English languages books, offering a selection of Cambodia-related titles including the most recent releases. Bohr’s Books has one of the best selections of used and bootleg versions of the most popular Cambodia and SEA titles. Photocopy books and guides are also available at the traditional markets and roving book sellers that walk tourist areas such as the riverfront.
Bohr’s Books
Used and new books. Good selection of Cambodia and Southeast Asia related titles. 8AM-8PM.
#47 Street 172, behind Wat Ounalom, Phnom Penh
D’s Books
Used and new books. Cambodia title. Travel guides. Fiction and non-fiction. Several locations including:
1) #79 Street 240, Phnom Penh
2) Street 178, half block off the riverfront, Phnom Penh
Monument Books
Phnom Penh's primary new book seller. All the latest Cambodia related titles as well as a large selection of non-fiction and fiction titles. Newspapers, magazines.
#111 Norodom (near the corner of Street 240), Phnom Penh
Reyum Gallery
Selling books (English and Khmer) from Reyum Publishing, specializing in Cambodian culture and arts.
#47 Street 178, Phnom Penh
DVD, Movies, Music & Uploads
The video stalls at the Russian Market offer a large selection of DVDs, including recent movies, software and games for a dollar or two per disk. There are also several DVD shops along Sisowath Quay (the riverfront road) specializing in movies and music.
For music and movie uploads to your device:
Tel: 016-5609446
www.facebook.com/boomboomrecords278
ROGUE - iPod Shop
i-device uploads from a large catalogue: music, TV and movies. iPods, accessories. Established in Cambodia in 2002.
#1d Street 258, Phnom Penh
Photo Shops
Photo shops are located across the town, all offering digital services and most film services as well. Several dot Street 110 near Phsar Chas and another little cluster on Sihanouk at the corner of Street 51. The shops listed below are some of the more popular and complete.
City Color Photo
Long established. Digital services and film processing. Equipment, cameras, camera repair.
#121-123, Monivong Blvd., Phnom Penh
Tel: 023-999699
Laor Penh Cheth Digital Centre & Studio
Long established and respected photo shop and studio. Full digital photo services and film processing. Cameras, lens, cards, equipment. Studio and photographers. Six locations in Phnom Penh, two in Siem Reap.
#6AB, Monireth, cnr Street 286, Phnom Penh
#189, Monivong Blvd., Phnom Penh
#199, Charles De Gaulle Blvd., Phnom Penh
L3, Canadia Tower, Monivong Blvd., Phnom Penh
#A149, Airport Rd. Toeuk Thla Plaza II, Phnom Penh
Tel: 088-5666666
Supermarkets and Bakeries
Though Cambodian riel (KHR) is the official currency, US dollars are in common use. Most businesses, especially hotels, restaurants, airlines, markets and souvenir shops set their prices in US dollars. Change of less than one dollar is given in riel. Money changers cluster around the markets and tend to give a slightly better exchange rate than the banks. When accepting money, inspect the bills. Marred riel is acceptable tender, but the tiniest tear in a large US note renders it unusable in Cambodia.
Banks
Most banks are open from 8:00 to 16:00, Monday through Friday. Some are also open Saturday mornings. Several are located along Street 114 between Monivong and Norodom Blvds. A few of the more popular banks with tourists and expats include:
ACLEDA Bank Western Union service, locations throughout Cambodia. ATMs, cash transfer, Travelers Cheques, encashed and sold.
Visa/Gold Dot
#61, Monivong Blvd (Headquarters), Phnom Penh
Mon - Fri: 8:30-16:00
Tel: +(855)(0)23-994444
+(855)(0)15-999233
Fax: +(855)(0)23-998666
acledabank@acledabank.com.kh
www.acledabank.com.kh Cambodia Asia Bank (CAB)
Western Union. 24 hour services at Naga branch
Visa/MCNo. 333, Sihanouk Blvd. (Head office), Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)23-980000
Fax: +(855)(0)23-980008
NagaWorld Hotel, Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)23-210900
Naga II, Level I OutletMon, Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)23-216371
City Walk Branch (Lower Ground Floor Naga City Walk,National Assembly Street), Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)962754
Phnom Penh Airport Arrival Area Outlet, Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)23-862919
Phnom Penh Airport Departure Area I Outlet, Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)23-862836
Phnom Penh Airport Departure Area II Outlet, Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)23-862837
Phsar Thmey Counter Outlet, Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)23-212301
Riverside I Outlet, Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)23-220381
Canadia Bank Plc.
Full range of banking services, including: MoneyGram, Traveler Cheque, Foreign Exchange, International Credit Cards & ATM Service.
No. 265-269, Ang Duong Street, Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)23-868222 (9 Lines)
Fax: +(855)(0)23-427064
Telex: CANADIA KA36188
SWIFT Code: CADI KH PP
Cathay United Bank Cambodia (CUBC)
Currency exchange, ATM, t/c exchange, Western Union services Visa/MC/Maetro/Cirrus/Diners Club International/Riels.
#68, Street 214, Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)23-214466
Fax: +(855)(0)23-212121
#168GEo, Nehru Blvd, Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)23-885500
#191, Street 107, Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)23-224336
#203Eo, Monivong Blvd, Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)23-882878
#315Eo, Sisowath Quay, Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)23-990688
#55Eo, Sihanouk Blvd., Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)23-991388
#55Eo, Sihanouk Blvd., Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)23-991388
#283Eo, Kampuchea Krom Blvd, Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)23-998428
Foreign Trade Bank (FTB)
Credit cards accepted
#3, Street 114, Phnom Penh,
Tel: +(855)(0)23-724466
Mekong Bank
Credit cards accepted, currency exchange, t/c exchange.
Visa/MC/JCB/AMEX
Head Office:
#6, Monivong Blvd., Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)23-801348
Fax: +(855)(0)23-801350
Daun Penh Branch:
#1, Kramuon Sar Street, Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)23-217112
Fax:+(855)(0)23-217117
Regency Square Branch:
#298, Mao Tse Toung Blvd., Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)23-424993
Fax: +(855)(0)23-424328
Phsar Kandal Branch:
#219, Sisowath Quay, Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)23-222101
Fax: +(855)(0)23-222102
Siem Reap Branch:
#968, Vithei Chales de Gaulle., Siem ReapTel: +(855)(0)63-964417
Fax: +(855)(0)63-964420
Sihanouk Ville Branch:
#223, Ekareach Street, Sihanoukville
Tel: +(855)(0)34-933867
Fax: +(855)(0)34-933870
Union Commercial Bank (UCB)
24-hour ATM offering cash advance from Visa/MC
Visa/MC/Cirrus/Plus
#61, Street 130, Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)23-214159
ATMs
ATMs are located all across town. All ATMs accept Visa and MasterCard. Many also accept Cirrus, Plus and Maestro. All ATMs dispenses US dollars. For locations see the ATM icon on the city maps.
Credit Cards
Visa and MasterCard (MC) are the most widely accepted credit cards. Local cards from ANZ Royal Bank (ANZ) and the GoldDot card (GD) from ACLEDA Bank are both widely accepted. Many businesses charge commission on credit card payment.
Travelers Checks
Travelers checks are accepted at most banks, major hotels and restaurants and some money changers.
Cash Transfers
International cash transfers can be done through Western Union and Moneygram. For domestic money transfer Wing is very popular, with locations across the country in convenience stores, mobile phone shops and money changers.
Money and Banks
Though most medical facilities are not up to international standards, several international hospitals have opened in recent years, offering higher quality care.
The main hospital Calmette Hospital, and the international hospitals can handle most medical problems but serious illness or injury may still require medical evacuation, probably to Bangkok or Singapore. In addition to general medical services, the international clinics also offer evacuation and medical translation services. Though the cost of medical care is fairly nominal in Cambodia, the cost of medical evacuation is exorbitant. Medical insurance including evacuation insurance is highly advisable.
In case of medical emergency, proceed to one of the major international clinics/hospitals such as Royal Phnom Penh Hospital, Central Hospital, Raffles Medical Phnom Penh or the main hospital (Calmette Hospital).
Sun International Clinic has Japanese doctors and medical care.
Be aware that the ambulance services are not always prompt and the public emergency telephone numbers sometimes go unanswered. Also be aware that only a few places accept insurance. Most places including the main hospital expect payment at time of treatment
Hospitals, Clinics and Doctors
Calmette Hospital (Main Hospital)
Phnom Penh's main public hospital
#3, Monivong Blvd.
Tel: +(855)(0)23-426948
Central Hospital
International hospital
#82A Street 154
Tel: +(855)(0)11-332224
+(855)(0)23-214955
www.central-hospital.com
CME European Medical Center
#109-135 Street 144
Tel: 023-999008
Institute Pasteur du Cambodge
Vaccinations
#5 Monivong Blvd.
Tel: +(855)(0)23-428561
www.pasteur-kh.org
Khema Clinic#18 Street 528, Tuol Kok District
Tel: +(855)(0)23-880949
www.khemaclinic.com
Naga Clinic
International clinic. General medicine, tropical medicine, gynaecology-obstetrics.
#11, Street 254
Tel: +(855)(0)23-211300
Polyclinique Aurore
Long running, respected affordable Cambodian clinic. Ultrasound, X-ray.
#58-60 Street 113, Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)23-360152
Raffles Medical Phnom Penh
International standard medical clinic with full facilities. General medicine. Emergency care. Pediatrics. Translation. Evacuation.
#161 Street 51
Tel: +(855)(0)23-216911
+(855)(0)12-816911
Roomchang Dental & Aesthetic Hospital
Dental hospital and clinic.
1) #6 Street 184
Tel: +(855)(0)23-211338
2) #10 Rose Condo, Phnom Penh
Tel: +(855)(0)23-723338
www.roomchang.com
Royal Phnom Penh Hospital
International hospital. Affiliated with Bangkok Hospital from Thailand.
#888 ‘Russian Blvd’
Tel: (855)(0)23-991000
www.royalphnompenhhospital.com
Sun International Clinic
Japanese medical clinic.
#97B Monireth Blvd
Tel: (855)(0)23-956777, (855)(0)69-268060
http://siclinic.com
Tropical & Travelers Medical Clinic: Dr. Gavin Scott
Clinic with British doctor. General medicine. Tropical medicine.
#88, Street 108
Tel: +(855)(0)23-366802
+(855)(0)12-898981
www.travellersmedicalclinic.com
Dentists
Phnom Penh is becoming something of a dental tourism destination. Several dental clinic with internationally trained dentists have opened in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap in recent years, offering reportedly international standard dental care at a fraction of what it would cost back home.
International Dental Clinic
Full service dental clinic. Foreign trained local dentists.
#193, Street 208
Tel: +(855)(0)23-212909
+(855)(0)16-553366
Pachem Dental Clinic1) #93Eo Street 154
Tel: +(855)(0)23-990666
2) #303-305 Sihanouk
Tel: +(855)(0)23-993222
3) Kampuchea Krom
Roomchang Dental & Aesthetic Hospital
1) #6 Street 184
Tel: +(855)(0)23-211338
2) #10 Rose Condo
Tel: +(855)(0)23-723338
www.roomchang.com
Counseling, Mental Health, Psychiatry, Recovery
Alcoholics Anonymous - Phnom Penh Group
Meets throughout Cambodia - Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, Siem Reap and other locations.
Tel: +(855)(0)12-222179
www.aacambodia.org
Phnom Penh Group of Alcoholics Anonymous
Meetings Sun 10 AM; Mon 7PM; Wed 7PM; Fri 7PM
Coffee House, Street 13
Tel: +(855)(0)88-8181284
www.aacambodia.org
S.M.C Clinic
#247 Street 63
Tel: 023-955999
Chiropractors
International Chiropractic Clinic (ICC)
Dr. Christophe Savoure D.C.
#67 Street 240
Tel:+(855)(0)23-223101
Acupuncture
Younger Cosmetic Acupuncture
Offering a holistic approach to health and beauty through ‘cosmetic acupuncture’. Assisting everything from skin disorders and weight loss to hair loss and anti-aging treatments.
#313 Sisowath Quay, Himawari Hotel
Tel: +(855)(0)23-214555
Pharmacies
Pharmacies are common and most major medications are available but the smaller pharmacies often have a limited selection and dated medications. It is advisable to purchase from a major pharmacy (including the following) or one of the international clinics. For medical equipment and supplies, there is a small cluster of pharmacies and medical supply stores at the corner of Sihanouk Blvd and Street 173
Help Pharmacy
Full pharmacy. Health care and beauty products. English spoken. Open 24 hours.
#322 Moniviong Blvd, corner Street 252
Tel: +(855)(0)23-210338
Imatoku Pharmacy
"Only quality medicines; only licensed medicines." Located in the Cambodiana Hotel, this modern pharmacy staffed by fully trained Japanese and Khmer pharmacists sells authentic imported medications and high-end beauty products.
Located in Hotel Cambodiana, 1st Floor, #313 Sisowath Quay, Hotel Cambodiana
Tel: +(855)(0)99-990-039/070-990-039
Pharmacie Chamroeun Chanlida
New, modern pharmacies. English spoken. Minor first aid available.
#64 Street 136, 2 blocks off the riverfront, opposite Feel Good Cafe
Tel: +(855)(0)23-6727273
Pharmacie Chan Penh Vong
Very large stock of medications. Some medical equipment also available. Other pharmacies and medical sup- ply stores nearby.
#352 Sihanouk, corner Street 173
Tel: +(855)(0)23-213043
Pharmacie De La Gare
One of the city’s longest running pharmacies. Huge stock of medicines. Open: 7am – 7pm, Monday – Saturday and Sunday: 7pm – 5pm
#81Eo, Monivong Blvd.
Tel: +(855)(0)23-430205
U-Care
Modern pharmacies. Well-respected, very popular with expats and tourists. English spoken. Locations across the city, and in Siem Reap.
1) #26-28 Sothearos Blvd., corner of Street 178, a block off the riverfront
2) Sihanouk Blvd, corner Street 55, opposite ANZ Bank, next to Mobitel office
3) Corner of Norodom Blvd and Street 136, near the Central Market
4) #844, Kampuchea Krom Blvd.
5) #254 Monivong Blvd.
Tel: +(855)(0)23-222399
Insurance
All types of personal, medical, vehicle, home and business insurances are available. Expatriate medical insurance and travel insurance is also available.
AG Cambodia (agent)
#313 Sisowath Quay, Hotel Cambodiana
Tel: 017-360333
Asia Insurance (Cambodia)
#5 Street 13
Tel: 023-427981
Forte Insurance
#325 Mao Tse Toung
Tel: 023-885077
Infinity Insurance
#126 Norodom
Tel: 012-800001
Bumrungrad Hospital
33 Sukhumvit 3 (Soi Nana Nua), Wattana, Bangkok, Thailand 10110
Tel: +(66)(0)26671000
Veterinarians
Agrovet
Full service, western doctors, specializing in domestic animals.
#40 Street 111, Boeung Proleit, Khan 7 Makara, between Streets 214 and 232
Tel: +(855)(0)23-216323
Hospitals & Emergency Services
Emergency Phone Numbers in Phnom Penh
Ambulance: 119 (from 023 phones), 023-724891
Police Hotline: 117 (from 023 phones)
Tourist Police: 097-7780002
Child Abuse/Exploitation Police Hotline: 023-720555
Fire: 118 (from 023 phones), 012-786693