The Royal Palace Park: Phnom Penh's Front Lawn

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Location

Directly in front of the Royal Palace.

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Cost

Free (Public Space).

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Best Time

Late Afternoon (4:30 PM - 6:30 PM).

While the Royal Palace itself closes its doors in the late afternoon, the green space in front of it is just waking up. The Royal Palace Park is the perfect place to watch the sunset, feed the pigeons, and admire the Khmer architecture from the outside without paying an entrance fee.

What to See & Do

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The Moonlight Pavilion

The stunning open-air pavilion you see facing the river is the Preah Thineang Chan Chhaya ("Moonlight Pavilion"). This is where the King appears for public addresses and where classical Khmer dance is performed.

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The Pigeons

Be warned: there are thousands of them! Local vendors sell bags of dried corn. If you buy one, be prepared to be swarmed by hungry birds. It makes for a classic (and chaotic) Phnom Penh photo.

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People Watching

This is where the city comes to breathe. You will see monks walking from the nearby wats, families having picnics on the grass, and teenagers hanging out. It is a friendly, safe, and vibrant atmosphere.

🪷 Why the Lotus Flowers?

You will see many vendors selling lotus buds. These aren't just for decoration; people buy them to offer at the Preah Ang Dangker Shrine, located just to the north of the park (towards the river). It is believed to house a powerful spirit that protects the city.