Phnom Penh, the capital of the Kingdom of Cambodia, is an exotic city with fascinating scenery and enjoyable attractions. The golden-hued spires of Khmer architecture, the notable saffron of the monks’ robes, and the alluring spots on the banks of the mighty Mekong is the typical images of the Asia many travelers dream about.
Once known as the “Pearl of Asia”, Phnom Penh was praised a lovely French-built city in Indochina in the 1920s. Nowadays, the total area of about 678 square kilometers makes it the largest city in Cambodia, and Phnom Penh also becomes a popular gateway to other tourist destinations in the country like Angkor Complex in the West, Rattanakiri and Mondolkiri forest in the Northeast, and Sihanouk beaches in the South.
Located on the meeting points where three big rivers, Mekong, Bassac and Tonle Sap, connect, Phnom Penh is a lively riverside destination to spend a few days to explore and relax. If you are short on time, an exciting Phnom Penh day trip including the most famous highlights could give you a glimpse of the city’s charm that attracts a lot of travelers from all around the world. The first stop on every visitor’s itinerary is the Royal Palace with the gilded Chan Chaya Pavilion and the Silver Pagoda. These regal buildings are splendid spots to admire Khmer architecture with classic roofs and ornate gilding, as well as grab the chance of visiting the Throne Hall and the life-sized gold Buddha adorned with diamonds. To understand Cambodia, learning its tragic recent history under the Khmer Rouge regime is a must in Phnom Penh. Choeung Ek Killing Fields memorial and Toul Sleng Genocide Museum are infamous historical sites where you can listen to heart-wrenching stories and each visit to these spots will be a profoundly depressing experience for any travelers. Leaving behind the sorrow, let favor yourself with some fun time at the National Museum of Cambodia for the finest Khmer sculpture or at the Psar Thmei market to satisfy your shopping thirty.
With the captivating culture, the appealing colonial beauty and friendly people, Phnom Penh will definitely put strong impression on tourists who seek the charming cities along the great Mekong River.
