Russian Market (Phsar Toul Tum Poung)

The Russian Market (Phsar Toul Tom Pong) is one of the most popular markets in the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh, especially for bargain hunters.

Things to Do in the Russian Market

The market is surrounded on the outside by local fruit and vegetable stalls along with a large selection of factory outlet clothes shops. Inside the market is a bustling hot and humid rabbits’ warren of clothes, accessories, souvenirs and electronic goods.

The surrounding area is full of interesting café’s bars and cool hangouts where you can beat the heat in air conditioned indoor venues.

Getting to The Russian Market

The market itself is located just south of Mao Tse Toung Boulevard. In theory, it’s a 15-minute tuk tuk ride from The Riverside or central Phnom Penh area. However, traffic can delay the journey substantially at busy times so be sure to plan ahead.

The roads surrounding Russian Market are quite narrow and congestion from tourist buses can make entering and exiting a bit slow, so be warned.

Why Is It Called the Russian Market?

The market was called Russian after the Soviet expats who lived in the capital and shopped here in the 1980s, when the country was ruled by fellow Communist regime, Vietnam. At this time, Cambodia was shunned by most western countries and travellers.

Other Markets in Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh is blessed with an array of markets, although modern Cambodians prefer to shop in modern shopping malls, such as AEON, or at least the more affluent ones do.

The Russian Market certainly gives the Central Market a run for its money when it comes to the shear volume of goods on offer. However, the latter is one of the landmark buildings in the capital, and as the name suggests has a more central location. Other markets in Phnom Penh include the atmospheric (pungent) Old Market and Phnom Penh Night Market (Phsar Reatrey).