• Royal Palace - The Royal Palace of Cambodia stands as one of Phnom Penh’s most significant landmarks, embodying the nation’s monarchy, culture, and history. Constructed in 1866 during King Norodom’s reign, it remains the official residence of the King of Cambodia and is still used for royal ceremonies and state events.

Situated along the Tonlé Sap River, the palace complex features classic Khmer architecture, with golden spires, intricate carvings, and beautifully landscaped gardens.

• National Museum of Cambodia - The National Museum of Cambodia is the premier center for preserving and showcasing Khmer art, archaeology, and cultural heritage. Located just north of the Royal Palace in central Phnom Penh, the museum houses the largest and most comprehensive collection of Khmer sculptures and artifacts globally, offering visitors a profound journey through Cambodia’s ancient civilization.

History & Architecture

Established in 1917 during the French colonial period, the museum was designed by French architect George Groslier. Its distinctive traditional Khmer-style architecture, with red terracotta walls, elegant rooflines, and ornate decorative elements, reflects classical Cambodian design. At the center of the complex lies a tranquil courtyard garden, featuring lotus ponds and tropical plants, creating a serene and reflective atmosphere for visitors.

• Wat Phnom - Wat Phnom is the most sacred and historically significant Buddhist temple in Phnom Penh, considered the spiritual heart and birthplace of the capital city. Standing on a 27-meter-high natural hill, it is the highest point in the city and a cherished place where locals and visitors come to pray for good fortune, success, health, and protection.

History & Legend

The origin of Wat Phnom dates back to 1372, when a wealthy widow named Lady Penh (Yeay Penh) discovered four bronze Buddha statues and one stone statue floating in the Tonlé Sap River after a heavy flood. Believing them to be sacred, she built a small shrine on the hill to house the statues. Over time, the area became known as Phnom Penh, meaning “Penh’s Hill,” which later gave its name to the capital city.

The temple was later expanded and renovated by several Cambodian kings, including King Ponhea Yat, who moved the capital to this area in the 15th century.

• Central Market - Central Market, locally known as Phsar Thmey, is one of Phnom Penh’s most iconic landmarks and busiest shopping areas. Built in 1937 during the French colonial period, the market is renowned for its striking Art Deco architecture and large yellow dome, making it both a cultural attraction and a lively commercial center.

Architecture & Design

Central Market was designed by French architects and features a central dome with four long wings, allowing natural light and air to circulate throughout the building. The distinctive yellow façade, high ceilings, and symmetrical layout make it one of the most unique markets in Southeast Asia and a favorite spot for photography.

• Independence Monument - The Independence Monument is one of Phnom Penh’s most important national symbols, commemorating Cambodia’s independence from French colonial rule in 1953. Located at the intersection of Norodom Boulevard and Sihanouk Boulevard, the monument stands proudly in the heart of the city and represents Cambodia’s sovereignty, resilience, and national pride.

History & Background

The monument was inaugurated in 1958 and designed by renowned Cambodian architect Vann Molyvann, a pioneer of New Khmer Architecture. Its design was inspired by the traditional Angkor-era lotus-shaped towers, reflecting Cambodia’s ancient architectural heritage while symbolizing rebirth and freedom.

• Choeung Ek Genocidal Center - The Killing Fields of Choeung Ek are one of Cambodia’s most significant and sobering historical sites, serving as a memorial to the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime (1975–1979). Located about 15 kilometers south of Phnom Penh, Choeung Ek was once a peaceful orchard before becoming one of the regime’s largest execution and mass burial sites.

Historical Background

During the Khmer Rouge period, thousands of prisoners from Tuol Sleng (S-21) Prison were transported to Choeung Ek, where they were executed and buried in mass graves. It is estimated that more than 17,000 men, women, and children lost their lives here. Across Cambodia, nearly two million people died due to execution, forced labor, starvation, and disease.

• Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum - S-21, officially known as the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, is one of the most important historical sites in Cambodia. Originally built as a high school in the 1960s, it was converted by the Khmer Rouge regime (1975–1979) into a secret prison and interrogation center. Today, it stands as a memorial and museum dedicated to the victims of one of the darkest periods in Cambodia’s history.

Historical Background

Under the Khmer Rouge, S-21 became the regime’s most notorious detention center. An estimated 14,000–17,000 men, women, and children were imprisoned here. After intense interrogation and torture, almost all prisoners were forced to sign false confessions before being transferred to the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek for execution. Fewer than 20 prisoners are known to have survived.

• Russian Market - The Russian Market, locally known as Phsar Toul Tom Poung, is one of Phnom Penh’s most popular and authentic local markets. It gained its nickname in the 1980s, when Russian expatriates frequently shopped here. Today, it is a vibrant market known for souvenirs, handicrafts, antiques, clothing, and local street food, offering visitors a lively glimpse into everyday Cambodian life.

Market Atmosphere & Layout

The market is a low-roofed, maze-like complex filled with narrow walkways and closely packed stalls. The bustling atmosphere, friendly vendors, and mix of sounds and smells create an exciting and immersive local experience. Unlike modern shopping malls, the Russian Market retains a traditional and authentic charm.

• Private Transportation with AC
• Hotel Pickup and Drop-off
• Cold Bottle of Water During the Tour
• Professional License Tour Guide
• All Entrance Fees are Mentioned in The Itinerary

• Gratuities and Personal Expenses
• Drinks and other meals not clearly mentioned
• All other service not stated in the program

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.