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Wat Phnom: The Birthplace of Phnom Penh

Discover the spiritual heart of Phnom Penh at Wat Phnom, a historic temple offering serene beauty and panoramic city views from its hilltop sanctuary.

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Wat Phnom, rising 46 meters above the city, is a significant Buddhist temple and historical site in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Legend says that in 1372, a woman named Penh found Buddha statues in a tree, inspiring the temple's construction and eventually influencing the city's name. Today, it remains a bustling center for religious practices and a 'must-see' attraction.

A brief summary to Wat Phnom Daun Penh

  • ផ្លូវវត្តភ្នំ, Phnom Penh, Khan Doun Penh, KH

Local tips

  • Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) as a sign of respect when visiting the temple.
  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience 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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Getting There

  • Walking

    Wat Phnom is centrally located and easily accessible on foot. From the Royal Palace or Sisowath Quay, it's a 10-15 minute walk. Head north, following Street 108 until you reach the pagoda. Enjoy the sights and sounds of Phnom Penh as you approach this historical landmark.

  • Public Transport

    The Phnom Penh City Bus offers a direct route to Wat Phnom. Bus line 01 stops at Wat Phnom. The fare is approximately $1 USD. Buses depart from Soriya Cinema every 30 minutes. Check the current schedule for the most up-to-date information.

  • Taxi/Tuk-Tuk

    Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available throughout Phnom Penh. A short ride from the city center to Wat Phnom typically costs $3-5 USD. Negotiate the fare before you begin your journey. Be sure to confirm the price and currency to avoid any misunderstandings.

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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 heart of Phnom Penh. Perched atop the city's only hill, rising 46 meters above the surrounding landscape, this sacred site offers a tranquil escape and a captivating glimpse into Cambodia's rich cultural tapestry. According to legend, the story of Wat Phnom begins in 1372 with a woman named Daun Penh, a wealthy widow residing near the confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers. One day, she discovered four Buddha statues made of bronze, brass and marble inside a Koki tree floating in the river. Penh directed the villagers to build an artificial hill and a wooden temple atop it to house the statues. Monks blessed the site, naming it “Wat Phnom”. Over the years, Wat Phnom has had numerous add-ons to the initial shrine. The most significant of which is the massive stupa that enshrines the ashes of King Ponhea Yat who, in 1434, arrived and built the city of Phnom Penh. Shrines dedicated to Daun Penh and other deities can be found throughout the grounds, each with its own unique story and significance. Visitors can also explore the small museum, which displays artifacts and relics related to the temple's history. Wat Phnom is not only a historical landmark but also an active place of worship. Monks reside on the grounds, and locals come to pray, make offerings, and seek blessings. The walls are covered with murals, especially of Jataka stories of the Buddha's earlier reincarnations before his attainment of Enlightenment. There are also murals depicting stories from the Reamker, the Khmer version of the Ramayana.

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