Wat Phnom

Temple in Phnom Penh

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Marcin Konsek

Wat Phnom, situated atop a 27-meter-high hill, is one of Phnom Penh’s most iconic landmarks. This temple is deeply intertwined with the city’s history, as legend has it that a wealthy widow named Lady Penh discovered sacred Buddhist statues inside a koki tree floating on the Tonle Sap River. In 1372, she built a small shrine on the hill to house these relics, which eventually led to the founding of Phnom Penh itself.

A Symbol of Phnom Penh’s Heritage

Over the centuries, Wat Phnom has undergone multiple restorations, with significant reconstructions in 1434, 1806, 1894, and 1926. Despite these renovations, the temple retains its traditional Khmer architectural style, adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant murals depicting Buddhist tales. The temple’s central stupa contains the ashes of King Ponhea Yat, who moved Cambodia’s capital to Phnom Penh in the 15th century.

Visiting Wat Phnom

Today, Wat Phnom serves as both a historical site and an active place of worship. Locals frequently visit to pray, offer small tributes, or participate in meditation, making it a vibrant spiritual hub. For tourists, the temple provides an excellent opportunity to experience Cambodia’s religious and cultural traditions while enjoying panoramic views of Phnom Penh from the hilltop. A nominal entrance fee is charged for foreign visitors, and the serene environment makes it a must-visit destination in the capital.

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

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!