Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda Phnom Penh
The sacred residence of the Cambodian royal family, whose Silver Pagoda floor is laid with more than 5,000 silver tiles.
Overview
The Royal Palace in Phnom Penh was built in the 1860s and is the official residence of the King of Cambodia, still in use today. The complex is predominantly Khmer in style, with gilded roofs and glass mosaics gleaming. The Silver Pagoda takes its name from the 5,329 silver tiles forming its floor, and enshrines an emerald Buddha and a life-sized solid gold Buddha, making it one of the most important religious sites in the country.
History
The palace was built from 1866 when King Norodom moved the capital from Oudong to Phnom Penh. It continued to be expanded under subsequent kings, and the Silver Pagoda was rebuilt in 1962 in its present form. Remarkably, the palace and its treasures survived the Khmer Rouge period largely intact, and it remains the working residence of the Cambodian monarchy.
Highlights
- •The 5,329 silver tiles of the Silver Pagoda
- •The emerald Buddha
- •The palace gardens
Practical tips
- •Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees
- •The palace closes over lunch, so plan around it
Practical information
- Best time
- November to March
- Tickets
- About USD 10
- Opening hours
- 8:00 to 11:00 and 14:00 to 17:00
- Local food
- Khmer noodles, grilled fish and tropical fruit
- Getting around
- Tuk-tuks work well in the city, and the palace and riverside are walkable
- Visa
- A visa on arrival or an e-visa applied for in advance is available. Angkor Wat requires a separate ticket and entry in an allocated time slot.
Traveller reviews
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