Wat Phnom: The Birthplace of the Capital

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Location

Norodom Blvd (It's the only hill in the city!).

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Ticket

$1 USD for foreigners.

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Wildlife

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 is 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 named Phnom Penh ("The Hill of Penh").

What to See

• The Main Vihara: Climb the grand eastern staircase protected by lions and naga balustrades to see the main prayer hall.
• The Stupa: Behind the temple stands a large white stupa containing the ashes of King Ponhea Yat (1405–1467), the first King to move the capital from Angkor to Phnom Penh.
• Lady Penh's Shrine: Don't miss the small, colorful shrine located behind the main temple. This is dedicated to Grandma Penh herself, and locals come here to pray for good luck in business.

⚠️ Important Warnings

🐵 The Monkeys

The hill is home to a troop of wild macaques. They look cute, but they are aggressive thieves. Do not hold food in your hands, and keep a tight grip on your sunglasses and phone.

🐦 The Bird Release

You will see vendors selling small birds in cages for "good luck releases." Please do not buy them. These birds are often injured during capture and are simply re-trapped later. It is a cruel cycle.

After the Temple...

Wat Phnom is just a short walk from the French Quarter. Head towards the Post Office square to see some beautiful colonial architecture.

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