Wat Ounalom

Temple in Phnom Penh

CC BY-SA 3.0 / VCTBR

Located just a 10-minute walk from Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace, Wat Ounalom stands as the oldest and most significant pagoda in Cambodia. Established in 1443, it was built to enshrine a sacred eyebrow hair (ounalom) of Lord Buddha, making it a revered destination for Buddhist followers and visitors alike. The pagoda serves as the headquarters of Cambodian Buddhism and is the residence of the Patriarch of the Mahanikai School.

A Rich History and Spiritual Legacy

Before its destruction under the Khmer Rouge regime, Wat Ounalom was home to over 500 monks and housed the Buddhist Institute’s library, which contained a collection of more than 30,000 titles. Despite this tragic loss, the pagoda’s sacred relic—the Buddha’s eyebrow hair—miraculously survived and remains the focal point of the temple. Visitors can explore the complex to gain insight into Buddhist teachings, philosophy, and Cambodia’s spiritual heritage.

Visiting Wat Ounalom

Entrance to Wat Ounalom is free, making it an accessible and enriching experience for anyone interested in Cambodia’s religious traditions. The serene environment of the pagoda, combined with its historical significance and spiritual essence, makes it a must-visit attraction in Phnom Penh. Whether you’re seeking to learn more about Buddhism or enjoy a peaceful retreat, Wat Ounalom offers a profound connection to Cambodia’s cultural and spiritual past.

The Wat Ounalom appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Phnom Penh!

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