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Wat Phnom: The Birthplace of the Capital
Norodom Blvd (The only hill in the city!).
$1 USD for foreigners.
Watch out for the monkeys!
Standing proudly at the heart of the city, Wat Phnom ("Hill Temple") is more than just a pagoda—it is the historical and spiritual birthplace of Phnom Penh. Standing at 27 meters high, it remains the only hill in the entire city.
👵 The Legend of Lady Penh
In 1372, a wealthy widow named Daun Penh (Grandma Penh) found four bronze Buddha statues inside a hollow tree floating in the river. She built a small hill (Phnom) to house the sacred statues. The city that grew around it was permanently named Phnom Penh ("The Hill of Penh").
What to See
Climbing the grand eastern staircase protected by mythical lions and naga balustrades brings you to a few key spiritual sites:
The Main Vihara
The main sanctuary and prayer hall houses a large bronze sitting Buddha surrounded by detailed murals depicting traditional Jataka tales.
The Main Stupa
Behind the temple stands a massive white stupa containing the ashes of King Ponhea Yat (1405–1467), the first ruler to move the capital from Angkor.
Lady Penh's Shrine
Located behind the primary structure, this colorful shrine is dedicated to Grandma Penh where locals regularly pray for good luck in business.
⚠️ Important Visitor Warnings
The Monkeys
The hill is home to a wild troop of macaques. They are aggressive thieves; do not carry visible food and keep a firm grip on your sunglasses and camera gear.
Bird Release Scams
Vendors heavily promote buying small caged birds for "merit release." Please decline. These birds are frequently injured or re-trapped immediately after release.
After the Temple...
Wat Phnom is situated right at the edge of the old French Quarter. Head down the hill toward the Post Office Square to check out some beautifully preserved colonial architecture.
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