Wat Phnom

Wat Phnom, Phnom Penh

Are you planning a trip to Cambodia and looking for a unique and captivating destination to add to your itinerary? Look no further than Wat Phnom, the stunning temple complex located in the heart of Phnom Penh.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the fascinating history and cultural significance of Wat Phnom, as well as provide you with tips on how to tour the complex and make the most of your visit.

Basic Facts of Wat Phnom

The giant clock at Wat Phnom

Wat Phnom is located in the center of Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia. Specifically, it is situated in the Daun Penh district, on the northeastern side of the city.

It is open to visitors every day from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. However, please note that these hours are subject to change during national holidays and other special events. We suggest that you go visit in Cambodia’s dry season, from November to May so that the road is dry and easy to go.

The entrance fee for Wat Phnom was around $1 to $2 for locals and foreigners. It's always a good idea to confirm the current entrance fee with the official website or the staff at the temple.

History of Wat Phnom

Photo of old Wat Phnom

Legend has it that in the 14th century, a wealthy widow named Daun Penh found a large koki tree floating down the Tonle Sap River. Inside a hollow of the tree, she found four bronze statues of the Buddha. Being the pious woman that she was, Daun Penh decided to build a small shrine on a hill (or "phnom" in Khmer) to house the statues.

Fast forward a few centuries to the 19th century when Cambodia was under French colonial rule. The French decided to give Wat Phnom a makeover, building a grand staircase leading up to the temple, as well as several pavilions and a large stupa. The temple also played a significant role during the Khmer Rouge regime, where it was used as a storage facility for rice and other goods.

Today, Wat Phnom is a popular Cambodia tourist attraction and an important spiritual center for the Cambodian people. And who knows, maybe you'll find some hidden treasure in a tree while you're there!

Cultural Significance of Wat Phnom

Wat Phnom is considered an important cultural and religious landmark in Cambodia. It is believed to be the birthplace of Phnom Penh. According to legend, Wat Phnom was built on the site where a wealthy widow named Daun Penh discovered four bronze Buddha statues inside a koki tree in the 14th century. She built a small shrine to house the statues on a hill overlooking the surrounding area. Over time, people began to settle around the shrine, and a village grew into a town that eventually became the capital city of Cambodia - Phnom Penh.

The temple is also significant for its role in Cambodian history. It has survived many wars and political upheavals, including the Khmer Rouge regime, and has become a symbol of resilience and strength for the Cambodian people.

Additionally, the temple's role as a center for spiritual and cultural practices has provided inspiration for many Cambodian dancers, musicians, and performers. The traditional Khmer dance and music styles, which often feature depictions of Buddhist mythology and other spiritual themes, have been strongly influenced by the artistic traditions associated with Wat Phnom.

How to Tour Wat Phnom

Khmer shadow dance in front of Wat Phnom

If you're planning to tour Wat Phnom, it's best to set aside at least a few hours to explore the complex. You can start your tour at the entrance gate, where you'll find a ticket booth and information center.

From there, you can follow the paved pathway up the hill to the main temple complex. Along the way, you'll pass by several smaller shrines and statues, as well as a beautiful garden area.

Once you reach the main temple complex, you'll find several buildings and courtyards to explore. Some of the must-see attractions include the main shrine, the pagoda, and the bell tower.

Where to Stay and Eat

Romdeng, the best restaurant in Phnom Penh

If you're looking for accommodation near Wat Phnom, there are several options to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. Some of the popular choices include the Pavilion Hotel and Spa, the Raffles Hotel Le Royal, and the White Mansion. Since it is not far from Phnom Penh to Wat Phnom, you can have more things to do in Phnom Penh.

As for dining options, there are many restaurants and food stalls near Wat Phnom that offer traditional Cambodian cuisine, as well as international dishes and. Some of the popular choices include Romdeng, a restaurant that specializes in traditional Khmer dishes, and Joma Bakery Cafe, which serves up delicious baked goods and coffee.

Recommended itineraries in Cambodia:

9 Days Classic Cambodia Tour

14 Days Cambodia Road Tour to Sihanoukville

How to Get to Wat Phnom

Tuk tuk in Phnom Penh

Here are a few ways to get there:

1. Tuk-Tuk:Tuk-tuks are a popular mode of transportation in Phnom Penh, and you can easily hire one to take you to Wat Phnom. Negotiate a fare with the driver before starting your journey.
2. Taxi: You can also hire a taxi to take you to Wat Phnom. Look for a reputable taxi company, and negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
3. Walking: If you're staying in the city center, it's possible to walk to Wat Phnom. The distance is about 2km, and it should take around 25-30 minutes to reach the temple on foot.
4.Motorbike: Another option is to rent a motorbike and ride to Wat Phnom yourself. Be sure to wear a helmet and follow all traffic laws and regulations.

Whichever mode of transportation you choose to get from Phnom Penh to Angkor Wat temple complex, make sure to carry a map or use a GPS device to ensure you arrive at Wat Phnom safely and efficiently.

Visiting Tips

Prepare for some cash in Cambodia

Here are some more practical tips for visiting Wat Phnom:

1. Go early: Wat Phnom can get very crowded during peak hours, especially on weekends and public holidays. Consider going early in the morning when it's quieter and cooler.
2. Bring water: Cambodia can get very hot and humid, especially during the summer months. Make sure to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.
3. Bring cash: There are many vendors around Wat Phnom selling souvenirs, snacks, and drinks. Bring cash with you in small denominations to make it easier to purchase items.
4. Learn some history: Wat Phnom has a long and fascinating history, and it's worth learning a bit about it before you visit. This will help you appreciate the temple and its surroundings more fully.
5. Watch out for scams: Unfortunately, there are some scams that target tourists around Wat Phnom. Be wary of anyone offering you cheap tours or trying to sell you fake souvenirs.

In the End

We invite you to take your time to explore the temple grounds, admire the stunning pagodas and sculptures, and learn about the temple's fascinating history. Take a moment to sit and reflect, and soak up the spiritual energy of this sacred site. If needed, just feel free to contact us to tailor your Cambodia tour!