Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s busy capital, sits at the junction of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers. It was a hub for both the Khmer Empire and French colonialists. On its walkable riverfront, lined with parks, restaurants and bars, are the ornate Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum, displaying artifacts from around the country. At the city’s heart is the massive, art deco Central Market.
Top Attractions:
- Killing Fields of Choeung Ek: Explore the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, a harrowing reminder of Cambodia's tragic past under the Khmer Rouge regime. Visit the memorial stupa containing thousands of human skulls and bones, and learn about the atrocities committed during this dark period in history.
- Tonle Bati: Visit Tonle Bati, a picturesque area located south of Phnom Penh. Explore the Ta Prohm Temple, an ancient Khmer temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, and relax by the tranquil Tonle Bati Lake, a popular spot for picnics and swimming.
- Phnom Chisor: Climb to the top of Phnom Chisor, a hilltop temple complex dating back to the Angkorian era. Admire the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and explore the well-preserved ruins of Prasat Phnom Chisor, including a central sanctuary and two libraries.
- Wat Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center: Discover Cambodia's diverse wildlife at the Wat Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center, located about 40 kilometers south of Phnom Penh. Explore the sanctuary's vast grounds and see rescued animals, including elephants, tigers, bears, and primates.
- Phnom Udong: Visit Phnom Udong, a historic hilltop complex dotted with stupas, pagodas, and ancient ruins. Explore the royal tombs, climb the stairs to the top of the hill for panoramic views, and visit the nearby Vipassana Dhura Meditation Center.
- Silk Island (Koh Dach): Take a ferry ride to Silk Island, located in the Mekong River just north of Phnom Penh. Discover traditional silk weaving villages, visit pagodas, and enjoy scenic views of the river and surrounding countryside.
Top Things to Do:
- Cycling Tours: Explore the countryside of Phnom Penh Province on a cycling tour. Cycle through rural villages, rice paddies, and scenic landscapes, and interact with friendly locals along the way.
- Boat Tours on the Mekong River: Take a boat tour on the Mekong River to explore the waterways surrounding Phnom Penh Province. Cruise past floating villages, fishing communities, and lush riverine forests, and enjoy sunset views over the water.
- Cambodian Cooking Classes: Learn to cook traditional Khmer dishes with a cooking class in Phnom Penh Province. Visit a local market to shop for fresh ingredients, and then participate in hands-on cooking lessons to prepare authentic Cambodian recipes.
- Fishing Excursions: Experience traditional Cambodian fishing techniques with a fishing excursion on the Tonle Sap or Mekong rivers. Join local fishermen to try your hand at net fishing, casting lines, or using traditional traps to catch freshwater fish.
- Birdwatching: Explore the rich birdlife of Phnom Penh Province with a birdwatching tour. Visit protected areas and wetlands, such as the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary or the Boeng Sne Wildlife Conservation Area, to spot a variety of bird species in their natural habitats.
- Local Markets and Handicraft Shopping: Explore local markets in Phnom Penh Province to shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional Khmer goods. Visit markets like Phsar Toul Tom Pong (Russian Market) or Phsar Thmei (Central Market) to browse through stalls selling clothing, textiles, artwork, and more.