Wat Phnom
The spiritual heart of Phnom Penh, Wat Phnom is a historic Buddhist temple atop a hill, offering cultural insights and city views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Cooler temperatures
Wat Phnom
Best Time
Cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The spiritual heart of Phnom Penh, Wat Phnom is a historic Buddhist temple atop a hill, offering cultural insights and city views.
"A beautiful temple and park that only costs $1 per person to enter."
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
A moderate hill climb awaits, so wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
It can get warm, especially during the climb. Bring water! :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Main Pagoda
Summit of the hill
The iconic golden pagoda atop the hill, a serene spiritual center with intricate details.
Sculptural Gardens
Temple grounds
Admire numerous statues and wooden figurines scattered throughout the lush, pleasant park.
Panoramic City Views
Top of the hill
Enjoy lovely views of Phnom Penh, especially beautiful during sunset.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Affordable Entry & Respectful Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
3 days in Phnom Penh, top things to do?
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
A moderate hill climb awaits, so wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
It can get warm, especially during the climb. Bring water! :droplet:
I'm planning a 4-day trip to Phnom Penh and need recommendations
Phnom Penh travel: Palace or Killing Fields?
💰 Modest Entrance Fee
Only $1 for foreigners, a great value for a beautiful site. :moneywithwings:
👗 Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active temple. :dress:
I’m travelling through Cambodia, is Phnom Penh worth a visit?
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
A moderate hill climb awaits, so wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
It can get warm, especially during the climb. Bring water! :droplet:
💰 Modest Entrance Fee
Only $1 for foreigners, a great value for a beautiful site. :moneywithwings:
👗 Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this active temple. :dress:
📸 Sunset Views
Visit late afternoon for stunning sunset vistas over the city. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Wat Phnom to be a pleasant and affordable cultural stop in Phnom Penh, offering beautiful temple architecture and serene grounds. The low entrance fee and manageable size make it an easy addition to any itinerary, though some caution is advised regarding potential minor scams from children.
"The price is $1 for foreigners. The place is pleasant to walk around, you can get to the temple at the top. Many sculptures to admire! Can be done in less than 1 hour."
Yukima
"Beautiful temple to visit while in Phnom Penh. The price of entry for foreigners is only $1 per person and definitely worth the price. The grounds are beautiful and not over crowded. Definitely recommend drinking plenty of water as there is a moderate hill to climb to get to the temple. Overall, one of the best attractions visited while in Phnom Penh."
Jake Wagner
"Lovely temple / park that only costs $1 per person to enter. Highly recommend adding this temple to your things to do in Phnom Penh.
The park also has a lovely cafe / souvenir shops inside - loads of lovely statues and wooden figurines."
Augustas Jackevic
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wat Phnom is centrally located and easily accessible by tuk-tuk or taxi from most parts of Phnom Penh. Many travelers mention it's a common stop on city tours.
Yes, Wat Phnom is a prominent landmark situated on a hill in the city center, making it straightforward to locate.
From Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH), a taxi or pre-booked ride-sharing service is the most convenient way to reach Wat Phnom, taking approximately 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.
If you are staying in the central Phnom Penh area, walking to Wat Phnom is possible, but it might be a longer trek depending on your exact location and the heat.
While direct bus routes might be limited, tuk-tuks are ubiquitous and an affordable way to reach Wat Phnom from anywhere in the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Wat Phnom is $1 USD for foreigners. This is a very affordable price for a significant historical and religious site.
Wat Phnom is generally open daily from around 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It's advisable to check for any seasonal changes or specific holiday hours.
No, tickets are typically purchased on-site at the entrance. Some visitors have noted putting the $1 into a box without a formal ticket being issued, especially on Sundays.
Yes, as it is an active Buddhist temple, visitors are expected to dress respectfully. This means covering your shoulders and knees.
The main restriction is the dress code. Be mindful of removing your shoes before entering temple buildings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend between 45 minutes to 1.5 hours at Wat Phnom, allowing time to explore the pagoda, gardens, and enjoy the views.
You can see the main golden pagoda, numerous Buddha statues, Naga sculptures, and enjoy the serene park atmosphere. The climb to the top offers city views.
Yes, children can enjoy the open spaces and the visual appeal of the statues. The moderate climb is also manageable for most kids.
Photography is generally allowed in the grounds, but be respectful when taking pictures inside the active temple areas.
Basic facilities are usually available within the temple complex, though they may be simple.
🍽️ 🍴 Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe and souvenir shops located within the park grounds, offering refreshments and local crafts.
The surrounding area offers various local eateries and street food stalls where you can try authentic Cambodian dishes.
The cafe offers convenience, but for a more authentic culinary experience, exploring nearby restaurants is often preferred by travelers.
Cambodian cuisine often features vegetarian dishes. Look for vegetable stir-fries, noodle soups, and fresh spring rolls at local restaurants.
Don't miss trying Amok (fish curry), Lok Lak (stir-fried beef), and Khmer noodles.
📸 📸 Photography
The main pagoda, the Naga balustrades leading up the stairs, and the various statues offer great photo opportunities. The sunset view is also a highlight.
Drone usage is generally not permitted at religious sites like Wat Phnom to maintain peace and respect.
Early morning or late afternoon, especially during the golden hour before sunset, provides the best light for photography.
While photos are usually allowed in the grounds, it's best to be discreet and respectful when photographing inside the active temple buildings.
A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens is ideal. A smartphone camera will also capture great shots, especially with good lighting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Bring plenty of water and snacks, as the cafe inside might be a bit pricey. Ensure children are dressed respectfully (shoulders and knees covered) to enter the temple areas. The visit can be kept brief, making it ideal for younger attention spans.
💰 Budget Travelers
Budget tips: Utilize tuk-tuks for affordable transport around the city. Pack your own water and snacks to save money. The experience itself is rich in culture and history, offering significant value for the minimal cost.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photography tips: Aim for the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the best light. Capture the details of the sculptures and the grandeur of the main pagoda. The sunset view from the top is a must-capture moment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Wat Phnom
The temple's location on a hill was strategic and spiritual, offering a vantage point and a sacred space. Over centuries, it has been rebuilt and renovated, but its core legend remains a vital part of Cambodian heritage. Visiting Wat Phnom offers a glimpse into this rich history and the spiritual heart of Phnom Penh.
Today, Wat Phnom is not just a historical site but also an active place of worship. Locals and tourists alike visit to pay their respects, make offerings, and seek blessings. The blend of historical narrative and ongoing religious practice makes it a unique cultural experience.
Navigating the Temple Grounds
Once at the top, the main golden pagoda is the central focus. Inside, you'll find intricate Buddhist art and statues. Remember to remove your shoes before entering any temple building as a sign of respect. The grounds are also dotted with smaller shrines, statues of various deities, and lush greenery, making it a pleasant place to wander.
Be aware that while the entrance fee is low, some local children might offer to look after your shoes while you visit the inner sanctums. While seemingly helpful, this can sometimes lead to requests for money, and it's advisable to be cautious and aware of potential scams.
Photography at Wat Phnom
The various statues and sculptures scattered throughout the temple grounds provide excellent detail and character for close-ups or wider environmental shots. The surrounding park offers a green backdrop, and the city views from the top can be particularly captivating during sunset.
When photographing, always be mindful of the temple's sacred nature. Avoid intrusive photography, especially inside active prayer areas. Respectful framing and timing, like capturing the golden hour, will yield the most impactful images.
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