Introduction
A city that survived one of the bloodiest fights in the history of mankind and still has not lost its traditional charm; Phnom Penh is a place to be in. The capital city of Cambodia in South East Asia it is home to some of the finest examples of French colonial architecture, wide boulevard roads that give it a unique touch. The economic growth that the country has seen in the recent times has propelled the growth of many a new hotels, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. All this combines to make Phnom Penh an ideal destination for tourists, in this part of the world.

What to do
Phnom Penh is a cultural destination and exploring the city and all its treasures should be the first priority. Besides, it is the best place to enjoy Cambodian cuisine. A visit to any one of the ethnic restaurants in the city is therefore, a must. Shopping around in the markets of Phnom Penh can be a pleasant experience, and more than anything else may help you to feel the cultural pulse of this age-old city.

City at a Glance

Latitude 11° 33' N Longitude 104° 51' E Area 290 sq km Population 999,804 Language Khmer Religion Buddhism Telephone Code 023

History
A widow Grandma Penh, who constructed a temple called Wat Phnom Daun Penh or Wat Phnom, first laid the foundation of this city in 1372 AD. Later on, in 1432 AD, H. M. Cho Ponhea Yat moved his capital to Chaktomuk City or Phnom Penh as it is known today. In 1505 AD, the city was abandoned in favour of new places and remained in obscurity for the next 360 years. H. M. Nordom moved the capital back to Phnom Penh in 1865, which marked the beginning of a new phase in the history of Phnom Penh. The bloodiest and most sad time in the history of Phnom Penh came when it became part of Khmer Republic in 1970. This crisis however ended in the year 1979, when the communist government came to rule Cambodia and tried to renovate the city. The actual change in the landscape came in 1979, when mixed provincial and municipal population returned back to live in Phnom Penh City. This new set up has since been trying to rehabilitate, repair and develop the city and much of the present day status of Phnom Penh is largely a result of these efforts.

Weather and Best Season to Visit
Winter (December and January) is the best time to visit Phnom Penh. Rainy season stretches from April to October, while February and March are unbearably hot with high levels of humidity.

Attractions
Royal Palace
This is home to the king of Cambodia and was built in 1866 AD by King Nordom. However, most areas within the Royal Palace are closed for the public viewing except on special occasions.

Wat Phnom
There are many legends that connect the construction of this temple to a rich widow named Grandma Penh. This is one of the earliest structures in Phnom Penh and situated at the highest point in the city.

Silver Pagoda
It is one of the most exquisite structures in Cambodia. Located inside the compound of the Royal Palace, its floor is made up of 5,000 silver tiles. This is the best place to observe the richness of Khmer art and craft culture in Cambodia.

National Museum
National Museum is situated just near the Royal Palace and showcases the best of Cambodian art and architectural heritage. The museum has been recently restored and houses more than 5000 works of art.

Independent Monument
This museum was designed by Khmer architect Van Molyvann to commemorate the end of French rule over Phnom Penh in 1953. It is situated along the Tonle Sap River near Royal Palace.

Important Festivals and Exhibitions
Major festivals of Phnom Penh are Bon Om Tuk or Water Festival celebrated in the month of October or November, Chaul Chnam (Khmer new year) in mid April, and Chinese New Year in the month of January.

PLACES NEARBY
Oudong
Situated on, 40 km north of Phnom Penh, it is the former capital city of Cambodia. It showcases some of its past remains that are of great interest amongst the tourists.

After Hours
With the opening up of the economy new places of entertainment have also been opened up. Pubs, discos, and nightclubs line some of the most fascinating streets of this city. Phnom Penh after sunset can therefore, be a very 'action packed' experience. SHOPPING
Central market in Phnom Penh is a good place to purchase silk scarves, silverware, gems, antiques and another commodities. Monirong Blvd, which is part of the central market, is an ideal place for budget travellers interested in some cheap food and accommodation.

WHERE TO STAY
The city has some good accommodation options that cater to the requirements of every segment of tourists. Rates are not higher and services are good. Options include hotels of all category, tourist hostels, and guesthouses.

WHERE TO EAT

Cambodian cuisine can be a delight for those who relish oriental food. Fish is the most preferred dish and there is strong French influence in the cuisine. International cuisine is easily available in most of the restaurants and that too on affordable prices.

Travel Information
Air Travel Resources
The International Airport is situated at Pochentong, at a distance of around 10 km from the city. Cambodia International Airlines (National Carrier) and other international airlines connect it with places in South East like Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Hanoi, Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, and other important destinations in the world.

Land & Water
Buses are the most important means of intercity transport in Cambodia. These are run by the government and better off for those who plan to spend less for their journey. Service Taxis are another economical way to travel around Phnom Penh. Self-driven cars can be hired from the Directorate of Tourism, Cambodia. The port of Phnom Penh can be reached via the Mekong delta through Vietnam. This apart the government run ferries depart from the Psar Cha Ministry of Transport Ferry Landing between 103 and 104 streets and go to Kompong Cham, Stung Treng, Kompong Chhang and Phnom Krom.

Local Transport
Buses and service taxis are again the best way to move around in the city. Locals prefer cycles to anything else, and they are a good way to feel the pulse of the city.