Wat Ounalom
A serene Buddhist temple compound established in 1443, offering a peaceful escape with intricate architecture and a glimpse into monastic life.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the heat and noise
Wat Ounalom
Best Time
Escape the heat and noise

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Buddhist temple compound established in 1443, offering a peaceful escape with intricate architecture and a glimpse into monastic life.
"A beautiful pagoda full of peace, offering a serene environment to reflect and enjoy the surrounding area."
👗 Respectful Attire
Always wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees when entering buildings.
👟 Remove Shoes
Be prepared to take off your shoes before entering the main sanctuary.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Main Sanctuary
Central building
Admire the intricate gold leaf, detailed ornaments, and typical Khmer architecture. A truly beautiful and peaceful space.

Monastery Grounds
Compound
Wander through the peaceful grounds, observe daily monastic life, and enjoy the quiet atmosphere. Look out for cute cats!

Stupas and Pagodas
Throughout the compound
Marvel at the monumental and elaborate stupas, showcasing impressive Buddhist artistry and architecture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress Code is Key
Best Time for Peace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👗 Respectful Attire
Always wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees when entering buildings.
👟 Remove Shoes
Be prepared to take off your shoes before entering the main sanctuary.
🚶♀️ Free Entry
Admission is free, making it an accessible cultural stop.
🐱 Cute Cats
You might spot some friendly feline residents roaming the grounds.
Tips
from all over the internet
👗 Respectful Attire
Always wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees when entering buildings.
👟 Remove Shoes
Be prepared to take off your shoes before entering the main sanctuary.
🚶♀️ Free Entry
Admission is free, making it an accessible cultural stop.
🐱 Cute Cats
You might spot some friendly feline residents roaming the grounds.
📍 Combine with Museum
Easily pair a visit with the nearby National Museum.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Wat Ounalom for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful, detailed architecture, especially the main sanctuary. It's appreciated as a free cultural stop offering a serene escape from the city bustle, with many enjoying the quiet evenings and the presence of resident cats. Some note it might have less to see compared to other major attractions, and advise on the strict dress code.
"Beautiful pagoda with bright gold and very detail ornaments. We are allowed to go inside the main building but had to open shoes. No entry ticket but ensure to take permition to go inside. Please use proper clothing (no exposure of shoulder and use below knee pants / skirts)"
agtifa primadani
"Beautiful pagoda full of peace. The building is made by typical architecture which you can admire. Don’t forget to take proper clothes (no uncovered legs and shoulders)"
Klara Dohnalkova
"The only Monastery I go to every week to donate food in the morning. Still the best Monastery inside phnom penh!
Jus beware those tuktuk driver who wanted to carry things for u from outside to inside temple.
Once I mistaken them as the temple helper. Whereby The driver kept asking for 10k riel which was very turn off."
Lawrence Tan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wat Ounalom is conveniently located near the riverside in Phnom Penh. Many visitors arrive by tuk-tuk or taxi, which are readily available throughout the city. It's also a pleasant walk if you're staying nearby along the riverfront.
While direct public buses might be limited, tuk-tuks are the most common and practical way to reach Wat Ounalom. They can be hailed easily and are relatively inexpensive for short distances.
Yes, Wat Ounalom is very walkable from several key Phnom Penh attractions. It's situated close to the National Museum of Cambodia and the Royal Palace, making it easy to incorporate into a walking tour of the city's central sights.
From Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH), the most straightforward options are a taxi or a pre-booked ride-sharing service. This will be more comfortable and direct than navigating local buses with luggage.
While there isn't a dedicated large parking lot, tuk-tuks and taxis can usually drop you off right at the entrance. If you're driving yourself, you might find street parking nearby, but be mindful of local traffic rules.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Wat Ounalom is free. This makes it a very accessible and budget-friendly attraction for all visitors.
Wat Ounalom is generally open from early morning until late evening, often staying open until around 9 PM. This allows for peaceful evening visits.
To experience the most peace and quiet, aim for early mornings or late evenings. Weekday mornings are typically less crowded than weekends or afternoons.
Photography is generally allowed on the grounds, but always be respectful. Inside the main sanctuary, it's best to check for any specific signage or ask permission before taking photos.
Yes, a respectful dress code is essential. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered when entering any of the temple buildings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can admire the elaborate stupas, explore the peaceful monastery grounds, observe the daily routines of monks, and appreciate the intricate architecture of the main sanctuary. It's a great spot for quiet reflection.
Yes, the peaceful grounds can be enjoyable for families. Children can explore and observe, but ensure they are supervised and respectful of the religious site. The lack of entry fees is a plus.
A visit can range from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much you wish to explore and soak in the atmosphere. It's often combined with nearby attractions.
Basic facilities might be available, but it's always a good idea to carry your own water, especially during hotter months. Restrooms might be simple.
Besides covering shoulders and knees, wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be on your feet. Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to the heat.
📸 📸 Photography
The main sanctuary with its ornate details, the various stupas, and the serene monastery grounds offer excellent photographic opportunities. The frangipani flowers in cooler months add to the aesthetic.
It's best to ask for permission before photographing monks. Always be discreet and respectful; avoid intrusive photography.
The golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) provides beautiful, soft light. Evenings can offer a mystical ambiance, especially with the temple lights.
Drone usage is generally not permitted at religious sites like Wat Ounalom to maintain peace and respect. Always check local regulations.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide shots of the grounds and details of the architecture. A prime lens can be great for low-light interiors if permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Ensure children are dressed appropriately (shoulders and knees covered) to enter the main buildings. Remind them to be quiet and respectful of the monks and the sacred space. The open grounds allow for some freedom to move around, making it less restrictive than some other indoor attractions.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with other free or low-cost attractions nearby, like walking along the riverside or visiting the National Museum (which has an entry fee, but is close by). It's a perfect stop for a quiet moment without impacting your travel budget.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Wat Ounalom's Significance
Visitors often remark on the peaceful and serene atmosphere that pervades the grounds, offering a welcome respite from the city's hustle. The main sanctuary, though not as grand as some other temples, is noted for its beauty and the opportunity to respectfully enter and observe. The presence of numerous stupas scattered throughout the complex adds to its visual appeal and spiritual significance.
Beyond its religious role, Wat Ounalom is a cultural landmark. It provides a glimpse into the daily lives of monks and the enduring traditions of Cambodian Buddhism. Its proximity to other major attractions like the National Museum makes it an easily accessible yet profound stop for anyone interested in the spiritual and cultural heart of Phnom Penh.
Navigating the Monastery Grounds
As you explore, you'll notice various stupas, each with its own architectural style and significance. Take your time to wander through the courtyards and observe the monks going about their daily routines. You might even encounter some of the resident cats that add a charming touch to the serene environment.
Be aware of your surroundings and any specific instructions from temple staff. While entry is free, donations are always appreciated and help maintain the site. The grounds are generally well-maintained, offering a pleasant walking experience, especially during the cooler parts of the day.
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