Silver Pagoda: A Glimmering Jewel of Phnom Penh

4.4 (1816)

Discover the Silver Pagoda in Phnom Penh: A dazzling temple with over 5,000 silver tiles, priceless treasures, and intricate Khmer art.

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Silver Pagoda

The Silver Pagoda, also known as Wat Preah Keo Morakot or Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is located within the Royal Palace complex in Phnom Penh and is a dazzling display of Cambodian artistry and history. Its name derives from the 5,000+ silver tiles that adorn its floor, and it houses a wealth of treasures including Buddha statues made of gold, silver, and precious stones.

A brief summary to Silver Pagoda

HW6J+XMV, Oknha Chhun St. (240), Phnom Penh, Khan Doun Penh, KH

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

Dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, as the Silver Pagoda is a sacred site.
Photography is only allowed in the outside exhibition areas.
Combine your visit with the Royal Palace, as the entrance ticket covers both sites.
Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the Silver Pagoda and its surroundings.

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Getting There

Walking

The Silver Pagoda is located within the Royal Palace complex in central Phnom Penh, making it easily accessible on foot from many nearby hotels and attractions. From the riverfront area or Sisowath Quay, walk south along Sothearos Boulevard until you reach the Royal Palace entrance. Enter the palace grounds and follow the signs to the Silver Pagoda. Note that appropriate dress is required (shoulders and knees covered). Entrance fee to the Royal Palace (includes Silver Pagoda) is $10 USD.
Tuk-Tuk

Tuk-tuks are a readily available and convenient way to reach the Silver Pagoda from anywhere in Phnom Penh. Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey. A short trip within the city center should cost between $1-$4 USD. Tell the driver you wish to go to the Royal Palace, and they will drop you off at the entrance. From there, enter the palace grounds and follow the signs to the Silver Pagoda. Remember to dress respectfully. Entrance fee to the Royal Palace (includes Silver Pagoda) is $10 USD.
Ride-Hailing App

Use ride-hailing apps like Grab or PassApp to book a tuk-tuk or car to the Royal Palace. These apps provide upfront pricing and easy booking. A short trip in a tuk-tuk in the downtown area will cost around $1 USD. Set your destination as the Royal Palace, and the driver will take you to the entrance. Enter the palace grounds and follow the signs to the Silver Pagoda. Dress respectfully. Entrance fee to the Royal Palace (includes Silver Pagoda) is $10 USD.

Discover more about Silver Pagoda

The Silver Pagoda, officially named Wat Ubaosoth Ratanaram but commonly called Wat Preah Keo, stands as a radiant testament to Cambodian culture and Buddhist devotion within the Royal Palace grounds. The temple's history began in 1892 under King Norodom, initially constructed from wood as a place of worship and royal ceremonies. It was significantly rebuilt in 1962 with reinforced concrete, with over 5,000 silver tiles, each weighing 1 kilo, laid upon the floor. Only a portion of these tiles is visible to protect them.The pagoda houses a remarkable collection of Buddhist artifacts, including a life-sized gold Maitreya Buddha statue adorned with thousands of diamonds. The temple also features a 17th-century Emerald Buddha statue. The walls surrounding the pagoda are decorated with traditional paintings of the Reamker epic, the Khmer version of the Ramayana, created by 40 Cambodian artists in the early 1900s.Despite facing challenges throughout history, including damage during the Khmer Rouge regime, the Silver Pagoda has been restored to its former splendor and remains an enduring symbol of Cambodia's cultural heritage. Today, it functions more as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the kingdom's rich past and the enduring strength of its Buddhist traditions.