Royal Palace Phnom Penh
The Royal Palace Phnom Penh is one of the Cambodian capital’s landmark buildings and a must-see during any traveller’s visit to the Kingdom of Wonder.
History of the Royal Palace Phnom Penh
The official residence of the King of Cambodia, the palace is called Preah Barum Reachea Veang Chaktomuk Serei Mongkol in Khmer.
It was built in the 1860s after King Norodom decided to relocate the capital of Cambodia from Oudong to Phnom Penh sometime in the mid-19th century. The site originally contained an old fortress, Banteay Keo.
Demolished and rebuilt by King Sisowath from 1912 and 1919, the only part that remains from the original Norodom palace is the Napoleon Pavilion and a section of wall.
There are four main compounds inside the palace grounds: Silver Pagoda, Khemarin Palace, Throne Hall and the Inner Court.
Visitors are allowed access to the palace, apart from the western courtyard where King Norodom Sihamoni lives in his villa and entertains guests at Villa Kantha Bopha.
If you do visit the palace, make sure to dress respectfully, after all this is a royal residence. Shorts and skirts that cover the knee must be worn when visiting.
Nearby Attractions
As it is located on The Riverside Phnom Penh at the junction of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, you can combine a visit here with either a stroll along the riverfront or a visit to the adjoining National Museum of Cambodia.
