Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace (Preah Barom Reachea Vaeng Chaktomuk in Khmer) is the current, official palace complex in Cambodia. It is home to the Cambodia royal family and has been since the mid-1800s when it was built. The temple complex is located on the banks of Tonle Sap River and is arguably the centerpiece of the city.
The Royal Palace was built when the Cambodia capital was relocated to Phnom Penh from Oudong by King Norodom. The palace was built on the site of an ancient citadel - Banteay Kev – in 1866 and it has been continually occupied by reigning kings, apart from the era of the Khmer Rouge in the 1970s.
One of the Royal Palace’s main attractions is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Also known as the-silver-pagoda, the stunning temple was built in the 19th century with the aid of French technology and has, thankfully, stood the test of time despite Cambodia’s traumatic past.
Other notable structures include the Chan Chaya Pavilion, where kings of Cambodia were entertained by Apsara dances, and outside of which they would holds public audience. The regal Throne Hall , which is still used on special occasions, such as coronations and state visits, is also open to the public. The Royal Treasury features some historical display cases, while the Villa of Napoleon III, originally constructed in Egypt to accommodate French Empress Eugenie during the opening of the Suez Canal, was transported to Cambodia by Napoleon III as a gift to the Cambodian king.
It is best to get in early to beat the tourist hordes as well as the heat. Legs and shoulders must be covered (sarongs can be rented onsite) and no photography is allowed in the Silver Pagoda.
Where to Go
- Silver Pagoda: A stunning temple within the Royal Palace complex, famous for its silver-tiled floor and sacred Buddhist artifacts, including the Emerald Buddha.
Getting There
You can walk if staying in Phnom Penh or make use of a tuk-tuk or motorbike taxi when it’s hot.
Need to Know
- What is It?: The official residence of the Cambodia king that was built in the 1800s including several beautiful ancillary buildings and temples.
- When to Go: During open hours, any time of year.
- Nearest Town: near the banks of Tonle Sap River, a short walk from most areas of central Phnom Penh.
- Don’t Miss: The Silver Pagoda.
- Opening hours: 07:30 to 11:00 and 14:30 to 17:00, daily.
- Entrance fees: US$3 admission for foreigners; camera fee is US$2; video fee is US$5: no pictures are allowed inside the silver pagoda.
- Address: Sothearos Boulevard between Streets 184 − 240