Kandal Market - a group of people shopping at an outdoor market
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Kandal Market

4.4
·200 reviews·Phnom Penh, Cambodia

A bustling heart of Phnom Penh, Kandal Market offers authentic local life, vibrant street food, and a glimpse into daily commerce.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings (6-7 AM)

Authentic scenes & photos

CrowdLow
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Kandal Market - a group of people shopping at an outdoor market

Kandal Market

Best Time

Early mornings (6-7 AM)

Authentic scenes & photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A bustling heart of Phnom Penh, Kandal Market offers authentic local life, vibrant street food, and a glimpse into daily commerce. Reddit

4.4
(200 reviews)

"Great local market experience, full of essentials and delicious street food. Reddit"

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TIP

📸 Early Bird Photography

Visit 6-7 AM for fewer crowds and great shots of vendors setting up.

🍜 Taste Local Flavors

Don't miss the street food stalls for an authentic culinary experience.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Street Food Delights

Street Food Delights

Savor authentic Khmer flavors from local vendors. A true taste of Phnom Penh!

Reddit
Fresh Produce Section

Fresh Produce Section

Vibrant displays of local fruits, vegetables, and meats. Great for photos!

Reddit
Local Crafts & Goods

Local Crafts & Goods

Discover a variety of essentials, clothing, electronics, and more. A glimpse into daily life.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Vibe

Kandal Market is a bustling hub for locals. Expect a vibrant, authentic experience, not a polished tourist trap. Come with an open mind and a willingness to explore the diverse goods and food stalls.

Best Time for Authentic Scenes

For the most authentic experience and great photo opportunities, visit early in the morning (6-7 AM) when vendors are setting up. It's less crowded and you'll see locals in their element. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings (6-7 AM)
Why
Authentic scenes & photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Fresh produce still available
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Phnom Penh Central Market

📸 Early Bird Photography

Visit 6-7 AM for fewer crowds and great shots of vendors setting up. Reddit

🍜 Taste Local Flavors

Don't miss the street food stalls for an authentic culinary experience. Reddit

reddit.com

Where to eat local food with locals in Phnom Penh?

🤝 Friendly Locals

Engage with vendors; they are known for their welcoming nature. Reddit

☕ Try Khmer Coffee

Grab a refreshing iced Khmer coffee near the entrance. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Early Bird Photography

Visit 6-7 AM for fewer crowds and great shots of vendors setting up. Reddit

🍜 Taste Local Flavors

Don't miss the street food stalls for an authentic culinary experience. Reddit

🤝 Friendly Locals

Engage with vendors; they are known for their welcoming nature. Reddit

☕ Try Khmer Coffee

Grab a refreshing iced Khmer coffee near the entrance. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(200 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Kandal Market is praised for its authentic local atmosphere and friendly people, offering a genuine glimpse into Phnom Penh life. Visitors enjoy the diverse goods and especially the delicious street food. While not modern or pristine, its vibrant energy and reasonable prices make it a worthwhile experience for those seeking an unfiltered cultural immersion. Reddit

"People here are friendly. I like them all.
Various goods and reasonable price."

Sok Channting

"Great mid town market full of essentials for home cooked meals, there are barbers and salons, there’s a limited selection of clothing and electronics, and of course, phone shops, etc. On the backside is fresh produce, which is available even until evening. A few decent local hot food vendors to check out as well."

Riel Khmerican (Aaron)

"Kandal Market is a local market located in the middle of Phnom Penh Capital City and close to the riverside.
Not a clean or modern place but international tourists who walk along riverside usually pop in and walk through especially the fresh vegetables and meat section right behind The Ohana and Harmony hotels for window shopping or taking photos of local vendors.
For international tourists, I recommend the early morning hour between 6-7am when most people you will see are sellers. They come early and start preparing their products and wait for customers, it’s good for photography in such a less crowded hour."

sopha kuch

What People Like

Authentic local vibe
Friendly people
Delicious street food

What People Dislike

Not very clean
Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kandal Market is centrally located near the riverside, making it easily accessible. You can take a tuk-tuk or taxi from most parts of the city. Many visitors walk to the market if they are staying near the riverside area. Reddit

Yes, Kandal Market is situated right in the heart of Phnom Penh Capital City, very close to the popular riverside promenade. Reddit

Absolutely! Apps like Grab are widely used in Phnom Penh and are a convenient way to get to Kandal Market. Just set your destination to 'Kandal Market'.

Parking can be challenging in this busy area. It's often easier to arrive by tuk-tuk or to be dropped off and picked up, rather than trying to find dedicated parking for a car.

Many visitors enjoy walking along the riverside after visiting the market. You can also consider taking a cyclo for an iconic Phnom Penh experience. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Kandal Market is a public local market, and there is no admission fee to enter. You can freely wander through its various sections. Reddit

The market is generally open from early morning until late evening, though specific stall hours may vary. For the most authentic experience and best photo opportunities, aim for early morning (6-7 AM). Reddit

While it's primarily a local market, you can find some unique items. However, it's more about experiencing local life than dedicated souvenir shops. Reddit

Yes, international tourists often visit Kandal Market, especially to see the fresh produce and experience local life. It's not a modern or overly clean place, but offers an authentic glimpse. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed, especially in the fresh produce section. Early mornings offer the best light and fewer people. Reddit

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Goods

You'll find a wide array of items including fresh produce, meats, household essentials, clothing, electronics, and phone accessories. Reddit

For most goods, especially in the non-food sections, bargaining is expected. Approach it politely and with a smile. Food prices are generally fixed. Reddit

The fresh produce section is located at the back of the market, behind the hotels like The Ohana and Harmony. It's available even into the evening. Reddit

While not its primary focus, you might find some locally made items. It's more of a daily necessities market than a dedicated craft bazaar. Reddit

The fresh produce section offers a vibrant visual experience. Exploring the stalls selling household goods and clothing can also yield interesting finds. Reddit

🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining

Kandal Market is known for its local street food. You can find various hot food vendors offering authentic Khmer dishes. Reddit

Kandal Market is a great spot to experience local food alongside locals. Look for busy stalls with many patrons for the freshest and most popular options. Reddit

While many dishes are meat-based, you can often find vegetable stir-fries or noodle dishes. It's best to ask vendors about ingredients. Reddit

As with any street food, use your judgment. Opt for busy stalls where food is cooked fresh. Many visitors enjoy the food without issues. Reddit

The coffee stall near the entrance serves iced Khmer coffee, typically made with strong coffee, condensed milk, and ice, offering a sweet and refreshing treat. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The early morning hours (6-7 AM) are ideal for photography due to softer light and fewer people. The fresh produce section is particularly photogenic. Reddit

Focus on the vibrant colors of the fresh produce, the interactions between vendors and customers, and the daily hustle and bustle of market life. Reddit

Generally, photography is permitted. However, always be respectful and ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals. Reddit

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful. A wider lens can capture the market's atmosphere, while a telephoto can discreetly capture candid moments. Reddit

Look for candid moments, focus on details like textures and colors, and try to convey the energy and daily life of the market. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kandal Market offers a sensory-rich experience for families. While it can be crowded, the vibrant sights and sounds can be engaging for children. The fresh produce section, with its colorful array of fruits and vegetables, is often a hit. Encourage kids to try a new fruit or observe the different types of local goods. Reddit

Keep a close eye on children in crowded areas. Consider visiting during off-peak hours if you prefer a slightly calmer environment. The street food stalls can be an adventure, but ensure children are comfortable with the flavors and preparation methods. Trying a sweet Khmer coffee or a simple noodle dish might be a good starting point. Reddit

📸 Photographers

For photographers, Kandal Market is a goldmine of authentic Cambodian life. The early morning hours (6-7 AM) are particularly prized for their soft light and the opportunity to capture vendors in action before the main rush. The fresh produce section is a visual feast of colors and textures, perfect for close-ups and wider market scenes. Reddit

Focus on capturing candid moments, the interactions between people, and the details that tell a story. Be respectful when photographing individuals; a smile and a nod can go a long way. A versatile lens that can handle both wider market shots and tighter portraits will be most useful here. Reddit

🍜 Foodies & Culinary Explorers

Kandal Market is a must-visit for anyone looking to taste authentic Cambodian cuisine. It's a place where you can find a wide array of local street food, often prepared using traditional methods. Seek out the busy stalls frequented by locals for the best culinary experiences. Reddit

Don't shy away from trying new dishes. From savory noodle soups to grilled meats and unique snacks, the market offers a diverse menu. The iced Khmer coffee is a refreshing local specialty that's perfect for a mid-market pick-me-up. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Experiencing Local Life at Kandal Market

Kandal Market is a true reflection of Phnom Penh's daily life. Unlike modern malls, it's a place where locals come to shop for everything from fresh ingredients to household goods. The atmosphere is lively and authentic, with vendors calling out to customers and the general buzz of commerce. It's a fantastic opportunity to observe Cambodian culture firsthand. Reddit

Visitors often remark on the friendliness of the people here. Don't hesitate to interact, even with a smile and a few basic Khmer phrases. The market is divided into sections, with the fresh produce, meat, and seafood area at the back being particularly vibrant and a popular spot for photographers. You'll also find stalls selling clothing, electronics, and various everyday items. Reddit

For those seeking an immersive experience, visiting during the early morning hours (6-7 AM) is highly recommended. This is when vendors are setting up their stalls, and you can witness the market come alive. It's a less crowded time, offering better opportunities for photography and a more genuine interaction with the local community. Reddit

A Culinary Adventure: Street Food at Kandal Market

Kandal Market is a haven for street food enthusiasts. It's one of the places where you can truly eat like a local, sampling a variety of authentic Khmer dishes prepared right before your eyes. The variety of hot food vendors ensures there's something to tempt every palate. Reddit

When exploring the food options, look for stalls that are popular with locals – this is usually a good indicator of quality and freshness. You can find everything from noodle soups and stir-fries to grilled meats and local snacks. Don't miss the chance to try the iced Khmer coffee near the entrance; it's a refreshing and iconic local beverage. Reddit

While hygiene standards might differ from Western expectations, many visitors find the street food here to be delicious and safe when choosing wisely. Opt for food that is cooked thoroughly and served hot. It's an essential part of the Kandal Market experience and a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

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