🇰🇭 Welcome to Phnom Penh: The Pearl of Asia

Once known as the “Pearl of Asia,” Phnom Penh is Cambodia’s vibrant capital nestled at the confluence of the Mekong, Tonlé Sap, and Bassac Rivers. With its French colonial architecture, ancient Khmer temples, poignant history, and thriving café culture, this city offers a captivating mix of past and present.

---

🏛️ Top Attractions You Must Visit

📍 Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda
The Royal Palace, still home to the King of Cambodia, stuns with golden spires and traditional Khmer roofs. Don’t miss the Silver Pagoda, named for the 5,000+ silver tiles on its floor and home to a life-sized gold Buddha adorned with over 2,000 diamonds.

📍 Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21 Prison)
A sobering but essential visit, this former high school turned prison documents the Khmer Rouge atrocities. It's a powerful reminder of Cambodia’s recent history.

📍 Choeung Ek Killing Fields
About 17 km from the city, this peaceful yet harrowing site honors the victims of the Khmer Rouge. The memorial stupa with thousands of skulls is both chilling and deeply moving.

📍 Wat Phnom
Legend says this 14th-century hilltop temple is where the city began. Locals come here to pray for good fortune.

📍 Phnom Penh Night Market
Set along the riverside, this market is ideal for local street food, handmade crafts, and live music.

---

🍜 Culinary Delights: What to Eat

🍲 Amok Trey (Fish Amok)
A rich, fragrant fish curry steamed in banana leaves — a national dish not to miss.

🥗 Nom Banh Chok (Khmer Noodles)
Fresh rice noodles served with green curry gravy, often eaten for breakfast.

🦐 Grilled River Prawns
Head to riverside restaurants for perfectly charred, flavorful prawns served with Kampot pepper sauce.

☕ Iced Khmer Coffee
Sweet and strong, it’s the perfect pick-me-up while exploring the city.

---

🛍️ Where to Shop Like a Local

🧣 Russian Market (Toul Tom Poung)
A treasure trove of souvenirs, silks, vintage clothing, and local snacks. Bargaining is expected!

🛍️ Central Market (Phsar Thmey)
Housed in an art deco dome, this iconic market offers everything from electronics to jewelry and fresh produce.

---

🛏️ Where to Stay in Phnom Penh

🏨 Raffles Hotel Le Royal – Colonial elegance and luxury with history.
🏡 Plantation Urban Resort & Spa – A boutique oasis in the heart of the city.
💰 Budget: Sla Boutique Hostel – Clean, modern, and close to major sights.

---

🚖 Getting Around the City

🛺 Tuk-Tuks
The most authentic way to travel! Negotiate your fare before hopping in.

🚖 Ride-hailing Apps
Grab is widely used and reliable for tuk-tuks or cars.

🚶 Walking
Explore the riverside and palace area on foot — it's scenic and relatively safe.

---

💡 Travel Tips & Safety

• 🛂 Visa: Most tourists need a visa-on-arrival or an eVisa.

• 💵 Currency: Cambodian Riel (KHR) is used, but USD is widely accepted.

• 📱 SIM Cards: Cheap and available at the airport (Cellcard or Smart).

• 🚱 Water: Drink bottled water only.

• 👗 Dress Code: Modest attire when visiting temples or historical sites.

• ⚠️ Safety: Petty theft can occur; keep your belongings secure, especially at night.

---

🌅 Best Time to Visit Phnom Penh

November to March is the dry season, ideal for sightseeing with pleasant temperatures and lower humidity. Avoid June to October for heavy monsoon rains.