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🇰🇭 Cambodia

Phnom Penh travel guide

Phnom Penh, Cambodia's riverside capital, juxtaposes Royal Palace grandeur with Khmer Rouge tragedy at Tuol Sleng. This rapidly developing city offers profound history, French colonial architecture, and emerging food scene.

Language

Khmer, English common

Currency

US Dollar (commonly used), Cambodian Riel

Timezone

ICT (UTC+7)

Best time

November to February

Budget/day

$30-80/day

When to visit

Jan

25–32°C

Feb

26–33°C

Mar

27–35°C

Apr

28–36°C

May

27–35°C

Jun

25–33°C

Jul

25–32°C

Aug

25–32°C

Sep

25–32°C

Oct

25–31°C

Nov

24–30°C

Dec

24–30°C

Very High season High season Moderate season Low season

Safety

moderate

Phnom Penh has improved markedly. Bag snatching by motorbike is still reported — hold bags away from the road. Avoid flashy jewellery.

Women travellers

Generally safe. Bag snatching by motorbikes.

Culture & etiquette

Modest and respectful.
  • + Learn about Khmer Rouge history
  • + Dress modestly
  • + Support survivor businesses
  • - Don't be insensitive about genocide
  • - Do not point at religious icons or sacred objects

Food to try

Beef Lok Lak

Stir-fried with pepper sauce

Nom Banh Chok

Khmer noodles, breakfast

Amok

Steamed fish curry

Hidden gems

Tuol Sleng (S-21) Genocide MuseumRoyal Palace Silver PagodaKilling Fields of Choeung EkNational Museum of CambodiaQué Pasá, the Community Arts Space

Details are indicative and may change. Verify visa, safety, and entry requirements before travel.