Wat Svay Pope
A functioning Buddhist university and training center, Wat Svay Pope offers unique architectural details and a peaceful atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid heat, see monk life
Wat Svay Pope
Best Time
Avoid heat, see monk life
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A functioning Buddhist university and training center, Wat Svay Pope offers unique architectural details and a peaceful atmosphere.
"This pagoda, a training centre for monks, comes across as very ordinary and undistinguished."
☕ Grab a Coffee
The Frank Coffee Shop on the grounds is a nice spot to relax after exploring. :coffee:
Explore the Grounds
Venture beyond the main hall to discover unique buildings and architectural styles. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Unique Entrance Gate
Main Entrance
Adorned with 'mango and goat' patterns, this gate offers a distinctive welcome to the pagoda.
Glass-Covered Sala Chhan
Rear Grounds
A rare sight, this nine-tiered roofed hall offers a unique architectural experience.
Monastic Training Center
Buddhist University
Observe a functioning Buddhist university and witness the daily life of monks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Beyond the Main Hall
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☕ Grab a Coffee
The Frank Coffee Shop on the grounds is a nice spot to relax after exploring. :coffee:
Explore the Grounds
Venture beyond the main hall to discover unique buildings and architectural styles. :world_map:
Near Aeon Mall
Combine your visit with shopping at the nearby Aeon Mall for convenience. :shopping_cart:
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Grab a Coffee
The Frank Coffee Shop on the grounds is a nice spot to relax after exploring. :coffee:
Explore the Grounds
Venture beyond the main hall to discover unique buildings and architectural styles. :world_map:
Near Aeon Mall
Combine your visit with shopping at the nearby Aeon Mall for convenience. :shopping_cart:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Wat Svay Pope is noted for its unique architectural elements like the 'mango and goat' gate and the rare glass-covered Sala Chhan, and its function as a Buddhist university. While some find it less grand than other pagodas, its peaceful atmosphere and convenient location near Aeon Mall make it a worthwhile, albeit understated, visit.
"In a city of pagodas,
some massive,
some mysterious,
some elaborate,
some distinctive,
this pagoda, a training centre for monks near the Russian Embassy, comes across as very ordinary and undistinguished. The grounds are rather compacted and the main hall is not especially impressive. There is a bit of interesting (Hindu?) statuary and the Frank Coffee Shop on the pagoda grounds is quite nice. Nonetheless, it is hard to see a reason to visit here when so many other more intriguing and enchanting pagodas abound."
Geoff
"Svay Pope Pagoda is a Dhammayut pagoda located along Sothearos Blvd, opposite the Russian Embassy. "Svay Pope" means "mango and goat," and the main entrance gate is adorned with patterns of mangoes and goats.
Upon entering the main entrance, you will immediately see a golden Chedi, with the main hall located behind it. Unusually, there is a cafe near the northern entrance of the pagoda.
Moving further back into the main hall, there is a unique structure with red walls and a five-tiered roof, which appears to be the residence of the top monk. Beyond that, you'll find the Preah Shhamoniraja Buddhist University, where one can study Buddhism at the individual college level. Adjacent to the university is a building from the French colonial government era. Further beyond that, there is a very rare glass-covered Sala Chhan with a nine-tiered roof.
Svay Pope isn't just a name; it's a pagoda with many unique buildings. When you visit the Aeon Shopping Mall, be sure to stop by Svay Pope Pagoda.
--Basic building of Pagoda in Cambodia--
Vehear (The main hall): The building where the Buddha, the principal image of the temple, is enshrined.
Sala Chhan: which translates directly to 'dining or eating hall' is a gathering hall found in village pagodas traditionally used for religious celebrations, festivals and prayers by monks and where pagoda-goers come to make offerings.
Bannaly(Library): Sutra storehouse that stores scriptures"
SUSUMU KURODA
"Oasis of peace and cute cats"
Roman Schönholzer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wat Svay Pope is located on Sothearos Blvd, opposite the Russian Embassy, making it easily accessible by tuk-tuk or taxi. It's also a short distance from Aeon Mall, so you can combine your visit.
It's relatively close to the city center and easily reachable. Many visitors find it a convenient stop, especially if they are already in the vicinity of Aeon Mall.
Tuk-tuks are a popular and affordable option for getting around Phnom Penh. Negotiate your fare beforehand or use ride-hailing apps for transparent pricing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is typically no entrance fee to visit Wat Svay Pope, as it's a functioning religious site and training center. Donations are always welcome to support the pagoda's upkeep.
As a working pagoda and university, it's generally accessible during daylight hours. However, it's respectful to visit outside of prayer times or during the day.
Yes, it's important to dress respectfully when visiting any pagoda. This means covering your shoulders and knees. Avoid overly revealing clothing.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see the main hall with the Buddha image, a golden Chedi, the unique glass-covered Sala Chhan, and the Preah Shhamoniraja Buddhist University. The entrance gate with mango and goat motifs is also noteworthy.
While it's a functioning religious site and training center, it's not as heavily touristed as some of the larger, more famous pagodas in Phnom Penh. It offers a more tranquil experience.
While you can observe monks, direct interaction might be limited as it's a place of study and practice. Always be respectful of their routines and privacy.
Its unique features include the 'mango and goat' entrance gate, the rare glass-covered Sala Chhan, and its role as a Buddhist university. It also has a French colonial-era building on its grounds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe called Frank Coffee Shop located on the pagoda grounds, offering a convenient spot for refreshments.
The Frank Coffee Shop offers refreshments. For a wider variety of Khmer and international cuisine, Aeon Mall is just a short walk away.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed on the grounds, but always be mindful and respectful, especially when photographing religious icons or monks. Avoid intrusive photography.
The unique entrance gate, the glass-covered Sala Chhan, and the architectural details of the various buildings offer great photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the late afternoon when it's cooler. The nearby Frank Coffee Shop provides a convenient spot for a snack or drink. For a more engaging experience for kids, you might want to combine this visit with a trip to the nearby Aeon Mall, which offers more entertainment options.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To keep costs down, consider using tuk-tuks for transportation and negotiate fares. The on-site coffee shop is an option for a quick refreshment, but for more substantial and affordable meals, exploring local eateries outside the immediate vicinity or heading to Aeon Mall's food court would be advisable.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Uniqueness of Wat Svay Pope
Perhaps the most striking architectural feature is the rare glass-covered Sala Chhan. This multi-tiered structure, with its intricate roof design, is a sight rarely found in other pagodas. The use of glass likely allows for natural light to illuminate the interior, creating a serene and ethereal atmosphere. The Preah Shhamoniraja Buddhist University also adds to the site's character, showcasing functional religious education architecture.
These elements, when viewed together, reveal Wat Svay Pope as more than just a simple pagoda. It's a site that encapsulates layers of history, cultural symbolism, and architectural innovation. For those interested in the nuances of Khmer religious sites, these unique structures offer a compelling reason to visit.
The Role of Wat Svay Pope as a Monastic Training Center
Visitors have the opportunity to witness a functioning monastic educational institution. This offers a glimpse into the disciplined life and academic pursuits of monks in Cambodia. While direct interaction may be limited to maintain the sanctity of their studies, observing the daily routines can be a profound experience.
Understanding this aspect of Wat Svay Pope adds depth to a visit. It highlights the pagoda's contribution to the preservation and propagation of Buddhist teachings, making it a significant site beyond its aesthetic appeal.
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