Experience the highlights of Phnom Penh in this memorable private day trip, offering you glimpses into the country’s past and present. Feel the splendor of the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, be amazed by the comprehensive display of artifacts at the National Museum, and learn about the horror of Khmer Rouge’s reign at the Tuol Sleng Museum. End the trip on a happier note with shopping time in Russian Market and a cruise along Chaktomuk River.
Full Itinerary
Meet your private driver and savvy guide upon pickup from the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port before taking a comfortable 4-hour ride to Phnom Penh about 230km away. Firstly, witness the grandeur of the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda (Wat Preah Keo). A spectacular lavish structure, the Silver Pagoda features a silver-covered floor, a Baccarat-crystal Buddha perched on a gilded pedestal and a life-sized solid-gold Buddha encrusted with nearly 1,000 diamonds. Then stop at the nearby National Museum, which houses one of the largest collections of Khmer art in the world. See well-presented exhibits on Hindu and Buddhist artifacts including daily objects and ceramics dating back from the Neolithic period.
After a flavorful Khmer lunch, call in at the Tuol Sleng Museum. Originally a high school compound, Tuol Sleng was converted to the S-21 prison camp when Khmer Rouge rose to power in 1975. Inside, you’ll see hundreds of prisoners’ portrait photos lining the walls, together with photographs and memorabilia documenting the barbarism of Khmer Rouge army.
Continue to Russian Market (Psar Tuol Tom Poung Market) for a change of atmosphere. From freshly caught fish, household paraphernalia to antiques and designer brand knock-offs – you can find nearly whatever you seek there. Soak up the vivid sights and the tantalizing smell of iced coffee, snacks, and noodles as you enter the middle of the market. Spend the rest of the day cruising the Chaktomuk River before returning to Sihanoukville Autonomous Port for your departure. Trip ends.
