Royal Palace, Phnom Penh Travel Guide

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Discover Cambodia's royal heritage at the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, a stunning complex of gilded architecture and serene gardens.

A dazzling symbol of Cambodia's regal heritage, the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh is a must-see. Built in the 19th century, the Palace has served as the official residence of Cambodian kings and is comprised of a series of buildings, including the Throne Hall and Silver Pagoda, all set amidst beautiful gardens.

A brief summary to Royal Palace

Samdach Sothearos Blvd (3), Phnom Penh, Khan Doun Penh, KH

Monday 7 am-10 am
Tuesday 7 am-10 am
Wednesday 7 am-10 am
Thursday 7 am-10 am
Friday 7 am-10 am
Saturday 7 am-10 am
Sunday 7 am-10 am

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Royal Palace.

Dress modestly, covering knees and shoulders, to respect the Palace's dress code.
Visit in the morning to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
Bring cash for the entrance fee.
Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Silver Pagoda and the National Museum.

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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.

Independence Monument

Statue of His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk

Silver Pagoda

Wat Langka

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

Explore Royal Palace on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Royal Palace, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the riverside area along Sisowath Quay, the Royal Palace is a short walk south. Head south along the quay, and you'll see the palace walls on your left. Enter through the public entrance on Samdach Sothearos Boulevard.
Public Transport

Phnom Penh has a public bus system. Check the local bus routes to see if there's a line that stops near the Royal Palace. The fare is KHR 1500 per ride. From the bus stop, walk towards Samdach Sothearos Boulevard to the palace entrance.
Ride-Sharing

Use ride-hailing apps like Grab or PassApp to book a tuk-tuk or car to the Royal Palace. Input 'Royal Palace' as your destination. A short tuk-tuk ride from most central areas will cost approximately $1-$2. The driver will drop you off at the public entrance on Samdach Sothearos Boulevard.

Discover more about Royal Palace

The Royal Palace in Phnom Penh is more than just a residence; it's a living testament to Cambodia's history, culture, and enduring monarchy. Constructed in 1866 under King Norodom, the palace marked a pivotal shift of the royal capital from Oudong to Phnom Penh. The Palace has been expanded and renovated by successive monarchs, each leaving their distinct imprint.The Palace complex is divided into four main compounds: the Throne Hall compound, the Silver Pagoda compound, the Inner Court, and the Khemarin Palace compound, though visitors can only access the Throne Hall and Silver Pagoda compounds. The Throne Hall, rebuilt in 1917 and inaugurated in 1919 by King Sisowath, is used for coronations and official receptions. Inside, you'll find three royal thrones and golden busts of Cambodian monarchs. The Silver Pagoda, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, houses a small crystal Buddha statue and a larger gold Buddha statue. Its floor is covered with over 5,000 silver tiles.While the palace suffered neglect and damage during the Khmer Rouge regime, it has since been restored and remains a symbol of national pride. Today, visitors can explore the palace's historic buildings, gardens, and temples, gaining insight into Cambodia's royal traditions and architectural heritage. Note that certain parts of the palace remain reserved for the royal family.