Phnom Penh After Dark: The Riverside

As the sun sets and the tropical heat begins to fade, Sisowath Quay (The Riverside) transforms into the city's massive, open-air living room. This is where locals come to relax, socialize, and exercise. It is a sensory overload of music, incense, and street food that you simply cannot miss.

The Evening Rituals

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Join the Aerobics

Every evening at 5:30 PM, the pavement fills with locals doing group aerobics to pumping techno music. For 1,000 Riel ($0.25), you can jump in the back row! It is fun, sweaty, and a great way to make friends.

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The Spirit House

Walk towards the Royal Palace to find Preah Ang Dangker, a sacred shrine perfumed with incense and lotus flowers. Locals come here to pray for good luck and lottery numbers.

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$5 River Cruise

Boats line the quay offering 1-hour sunset cruises for just $5. It’s the cheapest way to see the city skyline glitter as the sun goes down over the Mekong.

🍢 Street Food Checklist

• Spicy Green Mango: Served in a bag with salt, sugar, and chili. A sour/spicy wake-up call!
• Dried Clams (Leas Hal): Sun-dried river clams tossed with chili. You crack the shell with your teeth—a local favorite.
• Sugar Cane Juice: Freshly pressed with a hint of lime. The perfect drink to cool down.

See it From the Water

After walking the park, hop on a boat. The breeze on the river is the best air conditioning in the city.

Book a Sunset Dinner Cruise