A Visitor's Guide to the Royal Palace of Cambodia
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The official residence of the King of Cambodia.
Samdach Sothearos Blvd (3), Phnom Penh Riverfront.
Originally constructed in the 1860s.
~$10 USD (40,000 Riel) per person.
No visit to Phnom Penh is complete without exploring the dazzling Royal Palace. This magnificent complex of buildings has served as the seat of the Kingdom of Cambodia since the 1860s. With its classic Khmer architecture, glittering golden roofs, and serene gardens, it offers a breathtaking glimpse into the nation's royal history and artistic traditions.
Know Before You Go: Essential Visitor Tips
- Strict Dress Code: This is a sacred royal site. You must cover your shoulders and knees. T-shirts are fine, but no tank tops. Long pants or skirts below the knee are required. Sarongs are available for rent at the entrance if your attire is unsuitable.
- Photography Rules: Photography is permitted in the palace grounds, but it is strictly forbidden inside the Throne Hall and the Silver Pagoda.
- Opening Hours: The palace is typically open in the morning and afternoon but closes for a long lunch break. Check the latest hours before your visit to avoid disappointment.
Highlights of the Palace Complex
The Throne Hall (Preah Tineang Tevea Vinichhay)
This is the most impressive building in the complex and the primary audience hall of the King. While you cannot enter, you can look inside from the large open windows to see the magnificent golden thrones and intricate ceiling murals depicting the Reamker (Cambodia's version of the Ramayana).
This is where coronations and other important state ceremonies take place.
The Silver Pagoda (Wat Preah Keo Morakot)
Famous for its floor, which is covered with over 5,000 solid silver tiles (most are covered by carpet for protection), this temple is a treasure trove. It houses the magnificent "Emerald Buddha," a 17th-century Baccarat crystal statue, as well as a life-sized solid gold Buddha adorned with thousands of diamonds.
Remember to remove your shoes before entering this sacred space.
Beyond these two main structures, you can wander through the beautiful gardens and admire the many other buildings and stupas within the compound walls, including memorials to past kings and the Stupa of Princess Kantha Bopha.
