Wat Phnom Daun Penh, Phnom Penh Travel Guide

4.4 (7144)

Discover the historic and spiritual heart of Phnom Penh at Wat Phnom, a serene hilltop temple with panoramic city views and rich cultural significance.

Wat Phnom, a historic Buddhist temple, stands as the symbolic heart of Phnom Penh. Perched atop the city's only hill, it offers a tranquil escape and a glimpse into Cambodia's rich cultural heritage. Legend says that the temple was erected in the 14th century to house Buddha statues discovered by a woman named Daun Penh, who inspired the city's name.

A brief summary to Wat Phnom Daun Penh

ផ្លូវវត្តភ្នំ, Phnom Penh, Khan Doun Penh, KH

Monday 7 am-7 pm
Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
Thursday 7 am-7 pm
Friday 7 am-7 pm
Saturday 7 am-7 pm
Sunday 7 am-7 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Wat Phnom Daun Penh.

Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) as a sign of respect when visiting the temple.
Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience a more peaceful atmosphere.
Be aware of your belongings, as petty theft can occur in crowded areas.
Take your time to explore the surrounding park and enjoy the views of the city.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Moonlight Pavilion ( Preah Tineang Chanchaya )

Fountain Dragons

Explore Wat Phnom Daun Penh on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Wat Phnom Daun Penh, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

Wat Phnom is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from many parts of downtown Phnom Penh. From the riverside area, head west along Street 108 until you reach the base of the hill. The main entrance is on the eastern side, where you'll find a staircase leading up to the temple. Be prepared for a short climb. Entrance fee is $1 USD for foreigners.
Public Transport

Phnom Penh's city bus system provides an affordable way to reach Wat Phnom. Several bus routes pass near Wat Phnom. Check the local bus route map or use a mobile app to find the nearest bus stop. Bus fare is approximately 1500 Riel (~$0.40 USD) per ride. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the temple entrance.
Ride-Hailing Apps

Tuk-tuks and taxis are readily available via ride-hailing apps such as Grab and PassApp. These offer a convenient way to reach Wat Phnom from anywhere in the city. A short tuk-tuk ride from the riverside area typically costs between $1-$4 USD. Agree on the fare before starting your ride.

Discover more about Wat Phnom Daun Penh

Wat Phnom Daun Penh, often called Wat Phnom, is more than just a temple; it's the historical and spiritual center of Phnom Penh. According to legend, in 1372, Daun Penh, a wealthy widow, found four Buddha statues inside a Koki tree floating in the river. She built a wooden temple on a man-made hill to house these sacred artifacts, thus founding Wat Phnom. The 27-meter-high hill became known as Wat Phnom Daun Penh, from which Phnom Penh (meaning 'Penh's Hill') derives its name.Over the centuries, Wat Phnom has been renovated, most notably in 1434, 1806, 1894 and 1926. The most significant addition is the large stupa that holds the ashes of King Ponhea Yat, who established Phnom Penh as the capital in 1434. Today, Wat Phnom is a central attraction, beloved by locals and tourists alike.Inside the temple complex, visitors can explore various shrines and statues, including one dedicated to Lady Penh and another to the genie Preah Chau. The main sanctuary features murals depicting stories of the Jataka and Reamker, along with a large Buddha statue surrounded by smaller ones. The temple also enshrines seven hair relics of Lord Buddha, brought to Cambodia in the 19th century, making it an important pilgrimage site. Wat Phnom offers a serene atmosphere and panoramic views of the city, providing a window into Cambodian heritage.