Toul Tom Poung: The Beating Heart of Phnom Penh

Explore Toul Tom Poung in Phnom Penh: A bustling neighbourhood with a vibrant market, eclectic dining scene, and rich local culture, perfect for an immersive travel experience.

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Toul Tom Poung

Toul Tom Poung, often referred to as the Russian Market area, offers a vibrant blend of culture, history, and modernity. This bustling neighbourhood is famous for its eponymous market, which is a treasure trove of unique souvenirs, handcrafted goods, and delectable street food. The market itself is a labyrinthine adventure, where every turn reveals something new and fascinating, from intricate silver jewellery to traditional Khmer textiles, making it a haven for shoppers and culture enthusiasts alike. Beyond the market, Toul Tom Poung is a haven for foodies. The streets are lined with an eclectic mix of restaurants and cafes, offering everything from traditional Cambodian cuisine to international fare. Here, you can savour the rich flavours of Amok, a traditional Cambodian curry, or enjoy a refreshing coconut at one of the many street stalls. The neighbourhood's culinary scene is ever-evolving, with new eateries popping up regularly, ensuring that there's always something new to try. Toul Tom Poung is also a great place to experience the local arts scene. Numerous galleries and boutiques showcase the talents of Cambodian artists and designers, offering a unique glimpse into the country's creative spirit. The vibrant street art and murals that adorn the neighbourhood add to its colourful and dynamic atmosphere, making it a perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll. Whether you're looking to shop, eat, or simply soak in the local culture, Toul Tom Poung promises an unforgettable experience.

Local tips in Toul Tom Poung

Visit the Russian Market early in the morning to avoid crowds and get the best bargains.
Try the local street food, especially the freshly made spring rolls and coconut-based desserts.
Wear comfortable shoes as the market and surrounding streets can be quite busy and require a fair bit of walking.
Carry small denominations of cash for easy transactions at local stalls.
Don't miss the local art galleries and boutiques to discover unique Cambodian art and crafts.

ไฟล์:Tuol Tompoung Pagoda.jpg - วิกิพีเดีย

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

Explore the haunting history of the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh, a profound memorial dedicated to the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime.

Royal Palace

Experience the grandeur of Cambodia's Royal Palace, a stunning historical landmark filled with rich culture and breathtaking architecture in Phnom Penh.

Wat Phnom Daun Penh

Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Wat Phnom Daun Penh, a stunning Buddhist temple in the heart of Phnom Penh.

Tuol Tompoung Market

Explore the vibrant Tuol Tompoung Market in Phnom Penh, a treasure trove of local crafts, delicious street food, and authentic Cambodian culture.

Independence Monument

Discover the Independence Monument in Phnom Penh, a breathtaking tribute to Cambodia's freedom and a must-visit landmark for tourists exploring the city's rich history.

Silver Pagoda

Explore the Silver Pagoda in Phnom Penh, a magnificent Buddhist temple adorned with silver tiles and rich cultural artifacts.

Statue of His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk

Explore the profound history of Cambodia at the Statue of His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk, a must-visit historical landmark in Phnom Penh.

Statue of Samdech Choun Nath

Explore the Statue of Samdech Choun Nath, a captivating historical landmark in Phnom Penh, symbolizing Cambodia's rich cultural heritage and history.

Wat Maniratanaram Tuol Tumpung

Explore the spiritual essence of Cambodia at Wat Maniratanaram Tuol Tumpung, a captivating Buddhist temple and pagoda in the heart of Phnom Penh.

Toul Tom Poung EVENING market

Discover the authentic tastes of Cambodia at Toul Tom Poung Evening Market, a bustling hub of fresh food and vibrant local culture in Phnom Penh.

Unmissable attractions to see

Royal Palace

Discover the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, a stunning representation of Khmer culture and history, showcasing beautiful architecture and serene gardens.

Independence Monument

Experience the grandeur of the Independence Monument in Phnom Penh, a stunning tribute to Cambodia's freedom and resilience, surrounded by lush gardens.

Wat Botum Park

Discover the tranquil beauty of Wat Botum Park in Phnom Penh, a perfect blend of nature, history, and family-friendly fun.

The Giant Clock of Phnom Penh

Discover the beauty and heritage of Phnom Penh at the Giant Clock, a stunning landmark symbolizing the city’s rich history.

Konghing Fountain

Explore the Konghing Fountain, a picturesque attraction in Phnom Penh, famed for its stunning water displays and tranquil ambiance amidst the city's vibrant culture.

Botum Fountain

Discover the serene beauty of Botum Fountain in Phnom Penh, a tranquil oasis perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration amidst the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Essential places to dine

Eleven One Kitchen

Savor authentic Cambodian cuisine at Eleven One Kitchen - a delightful blend of local flavors and international favorites in Phnom Penh.

Golden Pumpkin Restaurant Phnom Penh

Discover authentic Cambodian flavors at Golden Pumpkin Restaurant – a must-visit dining spot in Phnom Penh's vibrant Russian Market area.

Greek Souvlaki Restaurant

Experience authentic Greek flavors at the renowned Greek Souvlaki Restaurant in Phnom Penh—where every bite tells a story.

Java Creative Cafe Toul Tom Poung

Discover culinary delights at Java Creative Cafe Toul Tom Poung – where exceptional food meets inspiring local art in Phnom Penh.

Gourmet Coffee Breakfast Lunch

Discover the flavors of Cambodia at Gourmet Coffee Breakfast Lunch in Phnom Penh - where every meal is an experience!

Toul Tom Pong Seafood - Street Food

Experience authentic Cambodian street food at Toul Tom Pong Seafood in Phnom Penh – where fresh flavors meet vibrant culture.

1 Duck & Food (Toul Tum Poung)

Experience authentic Cambodian cuisine at 1 Duck & Food in Phnom Penh's Toul Tum Poung neighborhood, famous for its delicious duck dishes.

Mangia

Experience authentic Cambodian cuisine at Mangia in Phnom Penh—where fresh ingredients meet traditional flavors.

ខ្ចៅ

Experience authentic Cambodian cuisine at ខ្ចៅ in Phnom Penh – where tradition meets taste in every dish.

Nhà hàng

Experience family-friendly dining in Phnom Penh with diverse dishes and an inviting atmosphere perfect for all ages.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Little Fashion Shop

Explore the vibrant styles of Little Fashion Shop in Phnom Penh, where unique clothing and accessories blend modern fashion with local craftsmanship.

ZANDO The Concept Store (BKK1)

Discover the essence of contemporary fashion at ZANDO The Concept Store in the heart of Phnom Penh's vibrant BKK1 neighborhood.

Amazing Cambodia

Experience the essence of Cambodia at Amazing Cambodia, your premier destination for authentic souvenirs and local crafts in Phnom Penh.

Senteurs d'Angkor (Phnom Penh)

Explore the rich culture of Cambodia through unique gifts at Senteurs d'Angkor, a must-visit gift shop in Phnom Penh.

Decollec

Explore Decollec, a delightful gift shop in Phnom Penh offering unique local crafts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Cambodia.

For Someone I Like

Discover unique gifts and local crafts at 'For Someone I Like' in Phnom Penh, where every purchase tells a story of Cambodian culture.

Lao Kang Tboung

Explore Lao Kang Tboung, Phnom Penh’s premier gift shop, for unique Cambodian handicrafts and souvenirs that capture the essence of local culture.

Khmer Souvenirs KH

Explore the charm of Cambodian craftsmanship at Khmer Souvenirs KH, your go-to destination for unique and authentic souvenirs in Phnom Penh.

វត្ថុអនុស្សាវរីយ៍សំណាងល្អ - Good Luck Souvenirs

Uncover the essence of Cambodia with authentic keepsakes from Good Luck Souvenirs, where culture meets creativity in every handcrafted item.

CT Cambodge

Explore CT Cambodge, Phnom Penh's premier souvenir shop, featuring unique Cambodian crafts, gifts, and textiles at wholesale prices.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

BATTBONG Speakeasy Bar . Bistro

Discover the vibrant nightlife at BATTBONG Speakeasy Bar & Bistro, where creative cocktails and cozy ambiance create unforgettable memories in Phnom Penh.

Long After Dark

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Phnom Penh at Long After Dark, where great drinks and a relaxing atmosphere await you.

Sundown Social Club

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Phnom Penh at Sundown Social Club, where stunning views and delicious drinks await you.

La Pétanque Bar & Kitchen

Discover La Pétanque Bar & Kitchen in Phnom Penh, where French culinary delights meet a lively bar scene in a cozy atmosphere.

Teddy Bear Restaurant

Experience the cozy charm of Teddy Bear Restaurant in Phnom Penh, where delightful drinks and a friendly atmosphere await you.

Hometown Hangout

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Phnom Penh at Hometown Hangout, a bar that offers live music and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.

Kombang PUB and Eatery

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delightful flavors at Kombang PUB and Eatery, the perfect spot for a night out in Phnom Penh.

Groovy Room - Concept Lounge Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Groovy Room, Phnom Penh's premier cocktail lounge and tapas bar, perfect for socializing and relaxing.

FUNKY FESTI

Discover the lively atmosphere and eclectic menu at Funky Festi, a vibrant restaurant and cafe in the heart of Phnom Penh, perfect for tourists.

Fun Crab Seafood - Toul Tom Poung

Experience the vibrant flavors of Cambodia at Fun Crab Seafood, a culinary gem in Phnom Penh specializing in fresh seafood delights.

The Black Sheep

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Phnom Penh at The Black Sheep, a trendy bar known for its exquisite cocktails and inviting atmosphere.

The Cave

Experience the perfect blend of local and international cuisine at The Cave, Phnom Penh's charming bar and restaurant with a vibrant atmosphere.

ASDA PUB

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Phnom Penh at ASDA PUB, where locals and travelers unite over great drinks and lively conversations.

Tipsy Tap

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Phnom Penh at Tipsy Tap, a lively bar offering a fantastic selection of drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Toul Tom Poung

Discover Toul Tom Poung with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- Helloសួស្តី
  [sousdei]
- Goodbyeលាស់ជា
  [leah chia]
- Yesបាទ/ទាទ
  [baat/taat]
- Noទេ
  [te]
- Please/You're welcomeសូម
  [suom]
- Thank youសូមអរគុណ
  [suom aokun]
- Excuse me/Sorryសូមអភ័យ
  [suom ahbay]
- How are you?អ្នកបានបងប្អូនដើម្បីណា?
  [nak bann bong baon daem bai na?]
- Fine. And you?មានសុខរដ្ឋបែបសិស្សទាយ?
  [man sokarot baep seysat dai?]
- Do you speak English?អ្នកនឹកនិយាយអង្គរហេតុទេ?
  [nak neak neyay angkeah het te?]
- I don't understandខុសលាឆ្នេង
  [kous lechna]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseខុសមើលម៉ឺនុយបងខាងអិល
  [kous muul menu bang kang ert]
- I don't eat meatខុសអិលឥន្ទិល
  [kous erl undol]
- Cheers!សំរាប់ជា!
  [sombai chia]
- I would like to pay, pleaseខុសបង់លុយបងខាងអិល
  [kous bang luoy bang kang ert]
- Help!ជម្រើស!
  [chamres]
- Go away!ទៅស៊ី!
  [tve si]
- Call the Police!ហាត់ក្រសួង!
  [hat krosuon]
- Call a doctor!ហាត់វេជ្ឈា!
  [hat vejja]
- I'm lostខុសបានយល់
  [kous ban yol]
- I'm illខុសរំលាយ
  [kous romlay]
- I'd like to buy...ខុសទិញ...
  [kous tien...]
- I'm just lookingខុសមើលពិភពលោក
  [kous muul pipoplook]
- How much is it?តើវាៈតើមជំរាបិតយ៉ា?
  [toe voat toam chomrapet yah?]
- That's too expensiveវានេបារ
  [yah nebar]
- Can you lower the price?អ្នកអាកករបងចងចាំតើបានយ៉ា?
  [nak akar kaa bang chongcham toe bann yah?]
- What time is it?ម៉ោងប៉ុណ្ណា?
  [mong pong na?]
- It's one o'clockវាៈមួយថ្ងៃ
  [yah muoy thngai]
- Half past (10)សួស្តីខ្លះ (១០)
  [sousdei kloh (sep)]
- Morningព្រឹក
  [prok]
- Afternoonល្ងាច
  [langcha]
- Eveningល្ងាច
  [langcha]
- Yesterdayម្សិល
  [msil]
- Todayថ្ងៃនេះ
  [thngai nee]
- Tomorrowថ្ងៃស្អែក
  [thngai saek]
- 1១
  [mouy]
- 2២
  [pii]
- 3៣
  [bei]
- 4៤
  [buon]
- 5៥
  [pram]
- 6៦
  [pram muoy]
- 7៧
  [pram pii]
- 8៨
  [pram bei]
- 9៩
  [pram buon]
- 10១០
  [dop]
- Where's a/the...?ទីណាបាល...?
  [ti na bal...?]
- What's the address?អាសេរបងតែនេហ្គាតេ?
  [asep bang thae nekateh?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?អ្នកអាស៊ីអ្ខេតយើង?
  [nak asi ekateyong?]
- When's the next (bus)?នេហ្គាតេម្រេចនា?
  [nekateh merch na?]
- A ticket (to ....)សេចង៉ុយតែមើល (ទៅ...)
  [sechung tae muol (tov...)]

History of Toul Tom Poung

Toul Tom Poung, also known as the Russian Market area, began to take shape in the early 20th century as a bustling commercial center. The neighborhood is named after the nearby 'Toul Tom Poung' or 'hill of the storks,' which highlights its natural landscape and ecological significance. The area initially attracted merchants and traders, becoming an essential hub for local commerce and social interaction.
During the Khmer Rouge regime from 1975 to 1979, Toul Tom Poung, like all of Phnom Penh, experienced profound suffering and upheaval. The vibrant market life was replaced by fear and repression. Many residents were evacuated, and the area became largely abandoned. After the fall of the regime, Toul Tom Poung slowly began to recover, reflecting the resilience of its community.
The 1990s marked a period of revitalization for Toul Tom Poung, coinciding with the broader recovery of Phnom Penh following decades of conflict. The establishment of the Russian Market (Psar Toul Tom Poung) in 1985 became a significant attraction, drawing both locals and tourists. This market helped to re-establish Toul Tom Poung as a commercial center and contributed to the local economy.
Today, Toul Tom Poung is recognized as a cultural melting pot within Phnom Penh, showcasing a blend of traditional Khmer culture and modern influences. The neighborhood is renowned for its vibrant street food scene, artisanal shops, and cultural events. It serves as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of its community, reflecting Cambodia's rich heritage and contemporary evolution.
In recent years, Toul Tom Poung has become a focal point for arts and community initiatives, with numerous galleries, workshops, and cultural events taking place throughout the year. Local artists and craftsmen contribute to the neighborhood's creative atmosphere, fostering a sense of community and collaboration that enhances the cultural landscape of Phnom Penh.

Toul Tom Poung Essentials

Toul Tom Poung is easily accessible from other neighbourhoods in Phnom Penh. From the city center, you can take a tuk-tuk or a taxi, which typically costs between $2-$5 depending on your starting point. If you're coming from Phnom Penh International Airport, a taxi ride will take approximately 30 minutes and cost around $10-$15. Public buses also connect different neighbourhoods, but they may not drop you directly in Toul Tom Poung.
Toul Tom Poung is best explored on foot or by bicycle. Many attractions are within walking distance, allowing you to soak in the local atmosphere. Bicycle rentals are available at various shops, and tuk-tuks are readily accessible for longer distances or when you're tired. Unfortunately, there is no train service in the area, and public buses have limited routes here.
Toul Tom Poung is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone late at night, particularly in poorly lit areas. While the neighbourhood has a low crime rate, petty thefts can occur, especially in crowded markets. Areas near the Russian Market (Psar Toul Tom Poung) can be particularly busy, so keep an eye on your belongings.
In case of an emergency, dial 115 for police assistance and 118 for medical emergencies. There are several hospitals in Phnom Penh, with the Royal Phnom Penh Hospital being one of the most reputable. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are also available throughout Toul Tom Poung for minor health issues.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting temples. Avoid wearing shorts or tank tops in such places. Religion: Do show respect by removing your shoes when entering a temple. Don't take photos in places where it is prohibited. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to the elderly. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and a polite 'sous-dey.' Don’t be overly familiar; a handshake is usually appropriate. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes from street vendors. Don’t drink tap water; always opt for bottled water.
To experience Toul Tom Poung like a local, visit the Russian Market early in the morning for the freshest produce and local crafts. Engage with vendors—it’s common for them to share recipes or cooking tips. Try local cafes and eateries, especially for breakfast; khmer noodles and coffee are highly recommended. If you’re interested in culture, check out local art galleries or exhibitions that frequently pop up in the area. Participating in a cooking class can also provide an immersive experience.

Toul Tom Poung: The Beating Heart of Phnom Penh

Local tips in Toul Tom Poung