Wat Ounalom: The Spiritual Heart of Phnom Penh
Discover Wat Ounalom Monastery in Phnom Penh: a serene sanctuary, the heart of Cambodian Buddhism, and home to a sacred relic of the Buddha.
Wat Ounalom, one of Phnom Penh's oldest and most significant monasteries, stands as the headquarters of Cambodian Buddhism. Founded in 1443, it houses a revered relic, an eyebrow hair of the Buddha, and serves as a center for learning, meditation, and spiritual practice.
A brief summary to Wat Ounalom Monastery
- Cambodia Samdach Sothearos Boulevard Phnom Penh, Preah Ang Eng St. (13), Phnom Penh, Khan Doun Penh, 12206, KH
Local tips
- Dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, as Wat Ounalom is an active religious site.
- Take your shoes off before entering temple buildings.
- Be mindful of monks; women should not touch them, and everyone should bow slightly in their presence.
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and to witness the monks' morning rituals.
- Explore the library to see ancient texts and learn about Buddhist knowledge.
Getting There
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Walking
Wat Ounalom is located on Samdach Sothearos Boulevard in Phnom Penh, a short walk from many central attractions. From the National Museum, walk north along Street 13, then turn right onto Street 154. The monastery will be on your right. This walk is approximately 5 minutes. No costs are associated with walking.
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Public Transport
The Phnom Penh City Bus has routes that pass near Wat Ounalom. Check the local bus routes and schedules for the most up-to-date information. A single bus fare is approximately 4,000 KHR (approximately $1 USD). From the Central Market, you can take bus route 3 to reach Wat Ounalom.
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Tuk-tuk
Tuk-tuks are readily available throughout Phnom Penh. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A short tuk-tuk ride from the city center to Wat Ounalom typically costs between $1 to $3. You can also use ride-hailing apps like Grab or PassApp to book a tuk-tuk. These apps will give you a fixed price before you book.
Discover more about Wat Ounalom Monastery
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