Visit Phnom Penh, Cambodia

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Phnom Penh is the largest city in Cambodia and serves as the country’s capital. The city is found on the banks of the Mekong River and is the center of Cambodia’s economic, cultural, political and industrial activity. Established in 1434 the city exhibits architecture and sites that are historic in nature while also stunningly beautiful. Architectural tours of the city which feature the broad spectrum of styles found in Phnom Penh from Art Deco to Khmer to Colonial is a favorite of visitors. Toul Sleng Museum is a challenging journey through Cambodia’s dark, relatively recent past. The Museum is housed in a school building that was the site of many grotesque acts of torture and murder that marked the rule of the Khmer Rouge. Four statues of Buddha that were rescued Lady Penh in the 14thcentury are found on the only hill in Phnom Penh, known as Wat Phnom, 30 meters in height. The historic riverfront district of Sisowath Quay is among the places most frequented by tourists in Phnom Penh. Located near the Royal Palace along the banks of the Mekong and Tonle Sap Rivers, Sisowath Quay is the site of an annual Festival with exhibits that include traditional dance, singing and cultural shows in November. Known as the Bon Om Touk Water Festival it includes three days of boat racing that coincides with the annual reversal of the flow in the Tonle Sap River. Boat trips on the Tonle Sap and Mekong Rivers are popular, especially sunset cruises that exhibit the beauty of the riverfront in the changing light. The more than 120 stalls offering artwork, silk, antiques, food and drink are found at the Night Market which attracts all ages. The Central Market constructed in a domed building of Art Deco Style in the 1930’s is an architectural masterpiece that houses vendors hawking every imagineable product. Tourists will also find visits to the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, The National Museum of Cambodia and the Russian Market necessary stops during their tour of the city 17 Kilometers south of Phnom Penh is found the “Killing Fields” (Choeung Eck) a haunting site of the genocide the Khmer Rouge regime rained upon its own people with exhibits that provide a sobering reminder of the inhumanity man can and occasionally does exhibit. Phnom Penh International Airport, the largest airport in Cambodia, is a common gateway with service from many other Asian countries. Ferries and faster boats connect Phnom Penh with Siem Reap and Chau Doc. Phnom Penh is also a regular stop on cruises of the Lower Mekong River. Bicycle Rickshaws known as “Cyclos” are a popular way for visitors to be transported about the city along with motorized “Tuk Tuks” and a growing number of taxis. Phnom Penh presents a vibrant and multi-dimensional nightlife culture with a broad array of restaurants, clubs, bars, entertainment and dance venues. A full spectrum of hotels and other accommodation options ranging from 5 star luxury establishments to budget oriented guesthouses are available. Your dream of visiting Southeast Asia and touring some important cultural sites can be realized by including the trip to Visit Phnom Penh, Cambodia on your list. Spend your days touring unique and memorable attractions and your nights enjoying the wide variety of experiences. You’ll have plenty of great stories to share with your friends and family when you return.

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