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National Museum of Cambodia: A Treasure Trove of Khmer Art

Discover a millennium of Khmer art and culture at Phnom Penh's National Museum, a treasure trove of Cambodian heritage.

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The National Museum of Cambodia in Phnom Penh houses one of the world's largest collections of Khmer art, showcasing sculpture, ceramics, bronzes, and ethnographic objects. Its traditional Khmer architecture provides a serene backdrop to explore Cambodia's rich cultural heritage.

A brief summary to National Museum of Cambodia

  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Photography is not permitted inside the museum galleries, but you are welcome to take photos in the courtyard.
  • Guided tours are available in Khmer, English, French, and Japanese.
  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat.
  • Check out the museum store for unique souvenirs and books on Khmer art and culture.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The National Museum is located north of the Royal Palace, on the west side of Veal Preah Maen square. From the Royal Palace, walk north along Preah Ang Eng St. (13). The museum entrance is at the corner of Streets 13 and 178. There are no specific costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Phnom Penh has a public bus system. Check the bus routes to see if there is a bus that stops near the National Museum. The fare for a public bus is 1500 Riel per voyage. Buses operate between 5:30 AM and 8:30 PM.

  • Ride-Sharing Apps

    Ride-sharing apps like Grab and PassApp are popular in Phnom Penh. You can book a car, SUV, rickshaw, motorbike, or tuk-tuk through the app. The cost of the ride will show up on your phone and the driver's phone at the end of the ride. Payment is usually made in cash. A short trip around town will cost a minimum of $4-$5.

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Discover more about National Museum of Cambodia

Located in the heart of Phnom Penh, the National Museum of Cambodia stands as the country's leading historical and archaeological museum. Inaugurated in 1920, the museum's buildings, inspired by Khmer temple architecture, were constructed between 1917 and 1924. The museum was designed by George Groslier, blending traditional Khmer architectural styles with French colonial influences. The terracotta structure, with its tiered roofs and ornamental spires, exemplifies classical Khmer design. The museum's collection includes over 14,000 items, dating from prehistoric times to the periods before, during, and after the Khmer Empire. Visitors can explore galleries dedicated to bronze artifacts, prehistoric relics, pre-Angkorian and Angkorian art, and post-Angkorian exhibits. Highlights include statues of Shiva, giant fighting monkeys, a stone stele portraying scenes from Shiva's life, and the statue of King Jayavarman VII. The museum also displays Buddhist and Hindu sculptures, ceramics, bronzes, and ethnographic objects. The National Museum promotes awareness, understanding, and appreciation of Cambodia's culture and heritage. It serves as a center for archaeological and historical research, playing a crucial role in preserving Cambodia's cultural legacy. Visitors can also find a museum store at the main entrance, offering postcards, souvenirs, replica sculptures, and books on art and culture.

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