10 Things to Do in Wat Phnom, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Wat Phnom, located in the heart of Phnom Penh, Cambodia, is a beautiful and historically significant temple complex. The temple is crowned by a 15th-century stupa, and is surrounded by a lush garden, making it a great place to explore and relax. Here are 10 things to do in Wat Phnom.
1. Visit the Temple of Wat Phnom
The Temple of Wat Phnom is the main attraction of Wat Phnom. Built in 1373, the temple is dedicated to the goddess of fertility, Preah Chau. The temple is a beautiful example of Khmer architecture, with intricate stonework, ornate carvings, and colorful murals. Climb the steps to the top of the temple and enjoy the view of the city.
2. Explore the Garden
Wat Phnom is surrounded by a lush garden, full of trees, flowers, and shrubs. Take a leisurely stroll through the garden and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The garden is also home to a variety of birds, making it a great place to bird watch.
3. Visit the Museum
The Wat Phnom Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the temple and the city. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, including ancient statues, paintings, and coins. There is also a library with books about the history and culture of Cambodia.
4. Attend a Festival
Every year, Wat Phnom is the site of a number of festivals and events. The most popular is the Bon Om Touk Festival, which is celebrated in April. During the festival, people come to the temple to pay respects to the goddess of fertility. There are also traditional dances and performances, as well as plenty of food and souvenirs.
5. Climb the Stupa
The 15th-century stupa at Wat Phnom is a popular attraction. Climb the steps to the top of the stupa and enjoy the view of the city. The stupa is a great place to watch the sunset and take in the beauty of the city.
6. Take a Boat Ride
Take a boat ride along the Mekong River and enjoy the sights of the city. The river is lined with traditional wooden boats, and you can see the city skyline in the distance. The boat ride is a great way to relax and take in the beauty of the city.
7. Enjoy Local Cuisine
Wat Phnom is a great place to sample some of the local cuisine. There are plenty of street food stalls selling delicious dishes. Try some of the traditional dishes, such as the Khmer curry or the noodle soup.
8. Visit the Night Market
The Wat Phnom Night Market is a great place to find unique souvenirs and handicrafts. The market is open every night, and is a great place to find traditional Cambodian clothing, jewelry, and artwork.
9. Visit the Zoo
The Phnom Penh Zoo is located near Wat Phnom and is a great place to spend the day. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including tigers, elephants, and monkeys. There is also a petting zoo, where you can feed and pet the animals.
10. Take a Cooking Class
Take a cooking class and learn how to make some of the traditional Cambodian dishes. The classes are held in a local restaurant, and you will learn how to make dishes such as Khmer curry, noodle soup, and fried rice. After the class, you can enjoy the dishes you have prepared.
Wat Phnom is a great place to explore and relax. With its beautiful temple, lush garden, and variety of activities, it is a must-see destination in Phnom Penh. So, if you are looking for things to do in Wat Phnom, be sure to check out these 10 activities.