Wat Phnom in Phnom Penh: History, Legend

Wat Phnom dans les années 1920

Wat Phnom in Phnom Penh: between history, spirituality and legend

Wat Phnom is more than just a temple: it's the legendary birthplace of Phnom Penh , a sacred place where Buddhist faith, royal history, and folk traditions blend together. Located on an artificial hill in the heart of the capital, this pagoda attracts pilgrims and curious visitors throughout the year.

A founding legend: the origin of Phnom Penh

According to legend, in the 14th century, a wealthy widow named Lady Penh discovered four Buddha statues in the trunk of a tree floating on the Mekong River. She installed them on a small hill (in Khmer: phnom ), around which a pagoda was built to venerate them.

This is how Wat Phnom ("Madame Penh's Hill") was born... and little by little, the city that would take her name: Phnom Penh .

A place steeped in history and spirituality

The current site of Wat Phnom has been rebuilt several times, with the last major renovation taking place in 1926. The complex includes:

• A main pagoda housing a seated Buddha statue.

• A stupa containing the ashes of King Ponhea Yat, who made Phnom Penh the capital in 1434.

• Colorful murals depicting the life of the Buddha.

• Secondary sanctuaries dedicated to different deities.

Cambodians come here to pray for health, success, or the return of a loved one. It's common to see offerings, incense, or statues of lions and elephants.

Why include Wat Phnom in your itinerary?

Wat Phnom is one of the few historic sites in the city that combines religious heritage, national history, and a cityscape . Climbing the stairs, you'll enjoy a beautiful view of the surroundings and a pleasant green setting.

📍 Address: Intersection of Norodom Blvd and Street 96 🕘 Hours: Daily from 7am to 6pm

💵 Entrance fee (foreign visitors): 1 USD

👕 Respectful attire recommended

Visit Wat Phnom with our car rental service with driver

Avoid the hassle of public transportation or random tuk-tuks. With Cambodia-Car-Rentals.com , you can book a car with a private driver to visit Phnom Penh and Wat Phnom with complete peace of mind.

Why choose our service?

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🏨 Pick up from your hotel or airport

📸 Possibility to visit several sites: National Museum, Royal Palace, Central Market, etc.

Phnom Penh Day Itinerary Suggestion with Wat Phnom

08:00: Departure from your hotel Visit to Wat Phnom Discovery of the National Museum Stroll through the Central Market 12:00: Lunch break offered on the banks of the Mekong Around 17:00: Cruise in a private boat to watch the sunset on the Mekong

📩 How to book?

It only takes a few clicks to plan your visit with a private vehicle:

👉 Request a personalized quote here

You can also discuss with our team to create a tailor-made tour including Wat Phnom and the must-sees of Phnom Penh.

Conclusion

Wat Phnom is much more than a temple: it's a symbolic place where the history of Phnom Penh began. To fully enjoy your visit and its surroundings, opt for a car rental with driver on Cambodia-Car-Rentals.com : comfort, efficiency, flexibility... and a worry-free discovery.