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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Authentic scenes & photos
Kandal Market
Best Time
Authentic scenes & photos

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.
"Great local market experience, full of essentials and delicious street food.
"📸 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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

Local Crafts & Goods
Discover a variety of essentials, clothing, electronics, and more. A glimpse into daily life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Best Time for Authentic Scenes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Phnom Penh Central Market
📸 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.
Where to eat local food with locals in Phnom Penh?
🤝 Friendly Locals
Engage with vendors; they are known for their welcoming nature.
☕ Try Khmer Coffee
Grab a refreshing iced Khmer coffee near the entrance.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 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.
🤝 Friendly Locals
Engage with vendors; they are known for their welcoming nature.
☕ Try Khmer Coffee
Grab a refreshing iced Khmer coffee near the entrance.
What Travellers Say
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.
"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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, Kandal Market is situated right in the heart of Phnom Penh Capital City, very close to the popular riverside promenade.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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).
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.
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.
Yes, photography is generally allowed, especially in the fresh produce section. Early mornings offer the best light and fewer people.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Goods
You'll find a wide array of items including fresh produce, meats, household essentials, clothing, electronics, and phone accessories.
For most goods, especially in the non-food sections, bargaining is expected. Approach it politely and with a smile. Food prices are generally fixed.
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.
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.
The fresh produce section offers a vibrant visual experience. Exploring the stalls selling household goods and clothing can also yield interesting finds.
🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining
Kandal Market is known for its local street food. You can find various hot food vendors offering authentic Khmer dishes.
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.
While many dishes are meat-based, you can often find vegetable stir-fries or noodle dishes. It's best to ask vendors about ingredients.
As with any street food, use your judgment. Opt for busy stalls where food is cooked fresh. Many visitors enjoy the food without issues.
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.
📸 📸 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.
Focus on the vibrant colors of the fresh produce, the interactions between vendors and customers, and the daily hustle and bustle of market life.
Generally, photography is permitted. However, always be respectful and ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals.
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.
Look for candid moments, focus on details like textures and colors, and try to convey the energy and daily life of the market.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
📸 Photographers
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.
🍜 Foodies & Culinary Explorers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing Local Life at Kandal Market
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.
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.
A Culinary Adventure: Street Food at Kandal Market
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.
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.
Social
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