Best Hotels In Phnom Penh: Wat Phnom And National Museum Of Cambodia
If you are planning to visit Phnom Penh, you can’t miss visiting two of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, Wat Phnom and National Museum of Cambodia. These two landmarks offer a unique experience that you won’t find elsewhere. In this article, we will provide you with information and tips to help you plan your trip to Phnom Penh.
Tourism Information
Information | Description |
---|---|
Address | Wat Phnom: Preah Moha Montrei 1, Phnom Penh, Cambodia National Museum of Cambodia: Preah Ang Eng St. (13), Phnom Penh, Cambodia |
Location | Wat Phnom: North of Central Market National Museum of Cambodia: North of the Royal Palace |
Category | Historical and Cultural Landmarks |
Price | Wat Phnom: $1 (Cambodian), $2 (Foreigners) National Museum of Cambodia: $10 (Foreigners), Free (Cambodian) |
Attractiveness | Wat Phnom: Historical landmark, beautiful scenery National Museum of Cambodia: Preserves Cambodia’s cultural heritage, rare artefacts |
Road access | Tuk-tuk, taxi, bus |
Short history | Wat Phnom: Built in 1372, on a small hill, the temple was named after a wealthy widow named Penh who discovered four bronze Buddha statues and a stone statue of Vishnu. National Museum of Cambodia: Established in 1920, the museum houses the world’s largest collection of Khmer art, including sculptures, ceramics, and bronzes. |
Reasons Why We Should Visit
- Experience Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage
- See rare and unique artefacts
- Visit one of the oldest temples in Phnom Penh
- Enjoy the beautiful scenery
- Learn about Cambodia’s history
Tourism History
Wat Phnom is one of the oldest temples in Phnom Penh, built in 1372. The temple is named after a wealthy widow named Penh who discovered four bronze Buddha statues and a stone statue of Vishnu. She built a small hill and erected a shrine to house the statues. The temple has been rebuilt and renovated several times throughout history.
The National Museum of Cambodia was established in 1920, during the French colonial period. The museum was built to house the collection of Khmer art gathered by French archaeologists and scholars. The museum has been renovated several times, and in 1968, a new building was constructed to house the growing collection.
Fact
- Wat Phnom is located on a small hill, which is said to be the highest point in Phnom Penh.
- The National Museum of Cambodia houses over 14,000 artefacts, including sculptures, ceramics, and bronzes.
- The museum’s collection includes rare and unique artefacts, such as the bronze statue of the Hindu god Shiva.
- The museum is home to the largest collection of Khmer art in the world.
- The Museum is closed on Mondays, and open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
FAQ
- What is the best time to visit Wat Phnom and National Museum of Cambodia?
- The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to February, when the weather is cooler.
- How much time do I need to visit both attractions?
- You can visit both attractions in a day, but it’s recommended to spend at least 2-3 hours at each attraction to fully appreciate the history and culture.
- Can I take photos inside the National Museum of Cambodia?
- Yes, you can take photos, but flash photography is not allowed.
- Is there a dress code to visit Wat Phnom and National Museum of Cambodia?
- Yes, visitors are expected to dress modestly and cover their shoulders and knees.
- Are there any restaurants or cafes near Wat Phnom and National Museum of Cambodia?
- Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes near both attractions, offering local and international cuisine.
Pros
Visiting Wat Phnom and National Museum of Cambodia is a great way to learn about Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage and history. The attractions offer a unique experience that you won’t find elsewhere. You can also enjoy the beautiful scenery and take stunning photos.
Tips
Here are some tips to help you plan your trip to Wat Phnom and National Museum of Cambodia:
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothes
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water
- Respect the local culture and customs
- Don’t touch or climb on the artefacts
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings safe
Summary
Visiting Wat Phnom and National Museum of Cambodia is a must-do when you’re in Phnom Penh. These two landmarks offer a unique experience that you won’t find elsewhere. You can learn about Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage, see rare and unique artefacts, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. With the information and tips provided in this article, you can plan your trip to Phnom Penh with confidence.