Background

Wat Langka: A Tranquil Oasis in Phnom Penh

Discover serenity and ancient Khmer heritage at Wat Langka, one of Phnom Penh's oldest and most revered Buddhist temples.

4.4

Wat Langka, also known as Wat Chhanta Dey, is one of Phnom Penh's oldest and most revered temples, dating back to 1442. This serene sanctuary offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city, with its traditional Khmer architecture, lush gardens, and rich history.

A brief summary to Wat Langka

  • HW4G+8V3, Samdach Louis Em, Phnom Penh, Khan Chamkar Mon, KH
  • +85587727207
  • Monday 6 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-7 pm
  • Friday 6 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Dress respectfully when visiting; cover your shoulders and knees.
  • Remove your shoes before entering the main prayer hall (vihara).
  • Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor to avoid disturbing those who are praying or meditating.
  • Consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
  • Donations are welcome and help to maintain the temple and support its activities.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Tuk-tuk

    From the Independence Monument, Wat Langka is approximately a 5-minute tuk-tuk ride. Negotiate the fare beforehand, with a typical short-trip costing between $1 to $2. Alternatively, use ride-hailing apps like Grab or PassApp to book a tuk-tuk and get upfront pricing. Payment is usually in cash, though Grab may support credit card payment.

  • Walking

    Wat Langka is located east of Norodom Boulevard, about a 5-minute walk from the Independence Monument. From the monument, walk east along Street 214, then turn right onto Street 174. The temple will be on your left. Be aware that Phnom Penh is not very pedestrian-friendly. Sidewalks are often narrow or obstructed, so exercise caution while walking.

  • Public Transport

    The Phnom Penh City Bus system offers a budget-friendly option. Check the bus routes and the 'Stops Near Me' app to find the nearest bus stop. The fare is 1500 Riel (approximately $0.40) per ride. Public transport operates between 5:30 AM and 8:00 PM.

Unlock the Best of Wat Langka

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Wat Langka

Wat Langka, or Wat Chhanta Dey, stands as a testament to Cambodia's enduring Buddhist tradition in the heart of Phnom Penh. Established in 1442 during the reign of King Ponhea Yat, it is one of the capital's oldest and most significant pagodas. The temple was originally built as a sanctuary for Buddhist monks and scholars and played a vital role in preserving Cambodian culture, literature, and education during turbulent times. The temple's architecture showcases traditional Khmer design, featuring intricate carvings, detailed sculptures, and ornate decorations. The main prayer hall, known as the 'vihara,' is adorned with magnificent murals depicting stories from Buddhist scriptures. Visitors can explore the temple's library, which houses a collection of ancient scriptures and manuscripts, offering a glimpse into Cambodia's rich cultural heritage. Wat Langka provides a tranquil setting for meditation, reflection, and spiritual connection. The serene ambiance, accompanied by the soft chants of monks, creates an atmosphere conducive to inner peace and mindfulness. The temple also serves as a center for Buddhist learning, where monks impart teachings and philosophy to students and devotees. Despite the destruction of many religious sites during the Khmer Rouge regime, Wat Langka remained largely untouched, symbolizing the resilience of Cambodian culture. Today, it is a place of worship, cultural exchange, and a serene escape for locals and tourists alike.

Popular Experiences near Wat Langka

Popular Hotels near Wat Langka

Select Currency