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Cultural experiences in Phnom Penh Cambodia
May 9, 2024
After exploring Siem Reap, take a flight to Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s bustling capital. This vibrant city offers a mix of historical and cultural attractions.
First, visit the Royal Palace and its stunning Silver Pagoda. Spend an hour or two wandering the palace grounds. The Silver Pagoda, named for its silver floor tiles, is a sight to behold.
Next, head to the National Museum. The museum’s exhibits cover the pre-Angkorian, Angkorian, and post-Angkorian eras. Unfortunately, photography is not allowed inside the museum, but the displays are impressive.
After visiting palaces, museums and temples, drive to Cheung Ek, known as the Killing Fields. Then, visit the Genocide Museum. These sites provide a sobering look at Cambodia’s tragic past. At each site, it is really worth getting the audio guide available for an additional 3 USD. It will enhance your experience. Listening to the recorded commentary makes the visit much more meaningful.
Be prepared for an emotional day. The atrocities committed over four years under Pol Pot’s regime are hard to fathom. Astonishingly, the leader of the Khmer Rouge faced only house arrest, despite ordering the deaths of millions. I am sure you will agree that this reality is difficult to accept.
If you have time, visit Koh Dach island. Here, locals produce silk in a communal setting. Take a tour to learn about the silk-making process. If you fancy a souvenir or need a gift for someone at home, you can buy scarves or fabrics in the on-site shop.
On Koh Dach, we also had the chance to visit local workers making bean curd skins. This Asian specialty, made from soybeans, involves boiling soy milk until a film forms. This film is then dried into thin yellow sheets, popular in China, Japan, and Korea. This is also where I managed to capture the winning picture of the National Geographic Traveller (UK) Photography Competition 2024 in the category “Food & Travel”.
Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s bustling capital, offers a rich mix of history, culture, and local experiences. It is a destination that will leave a lasting impression in our minds.
