Wat Phnom is a very important temple, and Phnom Penh itself takes its name from this temple. According to local legend, around six hundred years ago, a wealthy Khmer woman named Pen discovered several Buddha statues that had been carried ashore by the river. With strong faith in Buddhism, she built a temple on a nearby hill to enshrine these statues. Although the hill is only 27 meters high, it is the tallest in the area, and the place gradually came to be known as “Phnom Penh,” which means “Pen’s Hill.”

Wat Phnom has an east-facing entrance with naga stairways leading up, which are not very steep. The main hall has been rebuilt several times; the current structure was built in 1926 and features murals depicting the Ramayana. In the southern courtyard stands a small pavilion housing a statue of Lady Pen, the founder of the temple.

The temple is a center of diverse beliefs. It is primarily a Theravada Buddhist temple but also contains the Preah Hou shrine, which is highly revered by Vietnamese worshippers, located at the upper part of the main hall. At the front altar, there are statues of Confucius and two Chinese sages, while on the left side of the main altar stands a Vishnu statue with eight arms. Looking west from the main hall, visitors can see a large stupa containing the ashes of King Ponhea Yat.

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How to Get There

• The temple is located on a high hill in the center of Phnom Penh. It is within walking distance from Sisowath Quay and nearby restaurants.

• Taxis or tuk-tuks booked via Grab or PassApp are convenient, safe, and clearly priced.

• From Phnom Penh International Airport, a taxi takes approximately 30–45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

• If staying in the Riverside or Daun Penh area, it takes only a few minutes on foot to reach the temple.

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Travel Tips

• Dress modestly. Women should wear shoulder-covering tops and long skirts or trousers. Men should wear long pants or appropriate attire. Visitors with improper clothing may be denied entry.

• Visit early in the morning or in the evening to avoid heat and crowds, especially on weekendsBring drinking water, a hat, and sunscreen as the hill can be very sunny.

• Drones are not allowed, and pay attention to signs in restricted photo areas.

• Be cautious of scammers outside the temple, especially those offering guide services unsolicited.

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Admission

• Free no entrance fee.

Opening Hours

• Open daily from 06:00 – 18:00.