Phnom Penh, the capital of
Cambodia, sits at the confluence of the Mekong, Bassac
and Tonlé Sap Rivers. Considered to be the loveliest of Indochina's French-built
cities, Phnom Penh features many temples, museums and other places of interest in
and around the city. There has also been a recent boom of new hotels, restaurants,
bars and nightclubs sprouting up through the city and a nightlife that promises
fun and flavour.
What to do? The main attractions of Phnom Penh are the Wat Phnom, the Silver Pagoda in the Royal
Palace, the National Museum, the Tuol Sleng Museum and the Killing Field Choeung
Ek.
Other sights include the Phnom Temple, the Orchid Garden, the Russian market
and a 15th-century pagoda. Or you can take an afternoon boat ride along the Tonle
Sap and Mekong Rivers to floating villages and enjoy activities of the local Khmers
by the Tonle Sap River- eating, entertaining and praying. It is also a very rewarding
experience.
Out of Phnom Penh City, you can make day trips to Oudong Temple or Tonle
Bati-Ta Prom or Vat Nokor, where you find a Buddhist temple with pagodas and colorful
frescos.
Beyond wats and museums, Phnom Penh is the heart of the Cambodia's nightlife.
The recent explosion of bars and nightclubs in the city offers greater choice and
relaxation than ever before.
When to go? The ideal period to visit
Phnom Penh is between November and January, when humidity
levels are relatively low and there is little possibility of rain. From early February,
temperatures start to rise until the hottest month of April, when temperatures often
exceed 40°C (104°F). The wet season starts from May until Oct, when the southwestern
monsoon brings rain and high humidity. Though being very soggy, this period can
also be a good time.
Travel Tips: Pickpockets in large cities always need to care about. Thus, avoid walking at night,
try to find a dependable motor driver and don't carry more than necessary. When
traveling, do exercise common sense about chaos traffic around the city and you
should be alright.
