Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh is the capital and largest city of Cambodia, situated at the confluence of the Mekong, Tonle Sap, and Bassac rivers. The city has served as the nation's capital since the late 19th century under French colonial rule and was largely evacuated during the Khmer Rouge period from 1975 to 1979. Since then it has grown substantially and now functions as Cambodia's commercial, political, and cultural centre.

The Royal Palace complex on the riverside is the city's most prominent landmark and official residence of the Cambodian royal family. The adjoining Silver Pagoda houses the Emerald Buddha and numerous other priceless religious artefacts. The National Museum, a short walk from the Palace, holds one of Southeast Asia's most significant collections of Khmer sculpture. Wat Phnom, a hilltop temple from which the city takes its name, sits at the northern end of the city centre.

The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, housed in the former S-21 prison facility used by the Khmer Rouge, is a difficult but historically essential site documenting the atrocities of the 1975–1979 period. The Choeung Ek Killing Fields memorial, located 15 kilometres south of the city, provides further context for this history. Both sites are frequently visited together and require emotional preparation.

Phnom Penh's riverside district (Sisowath Quay) is lined with cafés, restaurants, and bars overlooking the Tonle Sap river. The Russian Market (Psar Toul Tom Poung) and Central Market (Psar Thmei) are the main shopping destinations for clothing, handicrafts, and local goods. The BKK1 neighbourhood has developed into an expatriate and upscale dining hub with a dense concentration of international restaurants.

The city has good transport links throughout Cambodia by bus and boat. Phnom Penh International Airport connects the city to regional hubs across Southeast Asia. Tuk-tuks, Grab car and tuk-tuk services, and motos are all readily available for getting around the city.

November through February is the most comfortable season, with moderate temperatures and minimal rainfall. The Cambodian Water Festival (Bon Om Touk) in November is one of the country's largest celebrations, held on the river in Phnom Penh.