City Guide
Deserted during the Khmer Rouge regime and repopulated only after 1979, Cambodia’s capital city lies at the confluence of three rivers and is now the nation’s economic, political and cultural center. Soak in the city’s charm by visiting historical attractions during the day, such as the Independence Monument, and enjoying an inventive cocktail at a hotel rooftop bar at night.
Cambodian artists, architects and students volunteer at this non-profit group to lead English language tours. Sign up for the “1960s New Khmer Architecture” tour to see buildings designed by the late Van Molyvann, or the “Four Religions of Phnom Penh” tour, which includes a visit to a Buddhist wat, Chinese temple, Cham mosque and Carmelite chapel.
Spread across 17.5ha, the Royal Palace compound has been the residence of
Cambodian kings since the 1860s. Visit the Throne Hall, Moonlight Pavilion, Silver Pagoda and Khemarin Palace before crossing the road to the National Museum of Cambodia to marvel at the world’s finest collection of Khmer sculptures, including a stunning 2m-wide bronze reclining Vishnu statue made in the 11th century.
