Standing tall on a peaceful hilltop in the city center, Wat Phnom is more than just a beautiful temple — it's the legendary birthplace of Phnom Penh and a symbol of the city’s spiritual and cultural identity.
Just a 10-minute ride from G Mekong Hotel, Wat Phnom offers visitors a serene escape and a meaningful glimpse into Cambodia’s rich past.
🕍 A Temple with a Story
According to legend, Lady Penh, a wealthy Khmer woman, discovered four sacred Buddha statues inside a tree floating along the Mekong River in the 14th century. She built a small shrine on the hill to protect them — and thus, Phnom Penh ("Hill of Penh") was born.
Today, Wat Phnom remains a sacred place where locals come to pray for luck, success, and good fortune — especially during Khmer New Year and other festivals.
🌳 What to Expect
1. Peaceful Hilltop Pagoda
Climb the gently sloping stairs to reach the main sanctuary. Inside, admire the colorful murals, incense-filled altar, and golden Buddha statues.
2. Clock Tower & French Colonial Monuments
Explore the surrounding park and gardens, which include a colonial-era clock tower, statues, and shady benches ideal for a quiet moment.
3. Lady Penh Statue
At the base of the hill stands a statue honoring Lady Penh, the city’s legendary founder, where offerings are often placed.
4. Local Offerings and Rituals
You might see locals lighting incense, releasing birds, or making offerings — part of traditional Buddhist practices still very much alive today.
📍 Visitor Info
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Location: Street 96, Norodom Blvd — easily accessible from G Mekong Hotel
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Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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Entrance Fee: Around $1 USD for foreigners
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Dress Code: Modest attire is recommended when visiting religious sites
🛕 Why Visit?
Wat Phnom is perfect for those wanting a cultural, historical, and peaceful experience within the city. It’s especially beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon, when the light is soft and the atmosphere calm.
Need a tuk-tuk or a local guide? Our team at G Mekong Hotel is happy to help arrange your visit.
Discover the Origins of Phnom Penh at Wat Phnom
Whether you're exploring for history, spirituality, or quiet reflection, Wat Phnom is a timeless stop that connects you to the very soul of the city.
