Wat Phnom Daun Penh, Phnom Penh Travel Guide

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

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Wat Phnom Daun Penh

Wat Phnom, a significant Buddhist temple, stands as the historical and spiritual heart of Phnom Penh. Perched atop the city's only hill, it offers a tranquil escape with captivating views and a glimpse into Cambodia's rich cultural heritage. Legend says the temple was founded in the 14th century by a woman named Daun Penh, who discovered Buddha statues in a floating tree.

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, covering shoulders and knees, as a sign of respect when visiting the temple.
Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy 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.

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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

From the Phnom Penh city center, such as the riverside promenade, Wat Phnom is easily accessible on foot. Head north along Street 108 until you reach the base of the hill. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes, offering a chance to see the city. Be mindful that Phnom Penh is not pedestrian-friendly. Sidewalks may be narrow or obstructed. Watch out for traffic. No costs are associated with walking.
Tuk-tuk

Tuk-tuks are a readily available and convenient mode of transport in Phnom Penh. From most central locations, a tuk-tuk ride to Wat Phnom should cost between $1 to $4, depending on your negotiation skills and the distance. Agree on the price before starting your journey. The ride usually takes 5-10 minutes from the riverside area.
Ride-Hailing App

Ride-hailing apps like Grab and PassApp are popular in Phnom Penh. Use the app to book a car, tuk-tuk, or motorbike taxi to Wat Phnom. The app will provide an upfront fare estimate, typically ranging from $1 to $5 for a ride from the city center. Payment can be made in cash or via linked card.

Discover more about Wat Phnom Daun Penh

Wat Phnom Daun Penh, often called Wat Phnom, is more than just a temple; it's the symbolic and historical epicenter of Phnom Penh. The temple has a close-knit relationship with the capital city. According to legend, in 1372, a wealthy widow named Daun Penh found a Koki tree in the river containing four Buddha statues. Inspired, she built a temple on a man-made hill to house these sacred artifacts, an act that gave the city its name, Phnom Penh, meaning 'Penh's Hill'.Rising 27 meters (89 feet) above the surrounding landscape, the site provides a serene escape and a window into Cambodia's cultural tapestry. Over the centuries, Wat Phnom has undergone numerous renovations, with significant work done in 1434, 1806, 1894 and 1926. The main building seen today was constructed in 1926. The temple complex includes a main sanctuary adorned with murals depicting stories of the Jataka and Reamker, and a large Buddha statue surrounded by smaller statues.Visitors can explore various shrines, including one dedicated to Lady Penh and another to the genie Preah Chau. A stone stupa stands as the final resting place of King Ponhea Yat, who moved the Khmer capital from Angkor to Phnom Penh in 1422. Wat Phnom is not only a religious site but also a place to appreciate the blend of history, architecture, and spiritual traditions that define Phnom Penh.