Wat Phnom Hill

Wat Phnom is a Buddhist temple located in the northern part of Cambodia's capital. It is perched on the city's only hill, rising 27 meters in height. If you're passionate about the history of Asian countries, you won't visit Cambodia without experiencing Wat Phnom. Here, you’ll discover the history of Phnom Penh’s largest religious structure.

History 

According to legend, Wat Phnom was built in the 14th century to house statues of Buddha. It was Daun Penh, a wealthy elderly woman, who discovered four bronze and stone Buddha statues in a tree trunk that had washed ashore on the banks of the Mekong River. The old woman then placed the statues in a temporary shrine on the hill near her home, using the tree trunk as a framework. Only later was a monastery founded to the west of the hill.

The hill was named "Phnom Penh," which means "The Hill of Penh," and that’s how the city came to be named. However, it wasn't until several years later that the city was founded around the temple on the hill: Wat Phnom. In 1866, under the reign of King Norodom I, the city was designated as Cambodia’s economic and political capital. Wat Phnom has undergone several renovations since its creation, including in 1926 and 1998. The main building that we see today was constructed in 1926.

Visiting Wat Phnom

Known as the "Pagoda on the Hill," Wat Phnom is a popular temple for both local and international tourists. It is renowned for its grandeur and immense spiritual significance for Buddhist believers. It is also the oldest pagoda in the capital.

Description of the Complex

Wat Phnom was built on nearly five hectares of land. The monastery has a bell-shaped dome, decorated with Naga serpents at each corner of the roof.

At the center of the temple stands a large stupa, visible throughout the city. It was constructed on a square base of 26 meters per side, and its two floors rise to a height of 42.25 meters.

To enter the main building, visitors are invited to climb a large staircase guarded by Naga serpents and lions on the eastern side of the hill.

The main sanctuary is adorned with murals depicting the stories of the Jataka and Reamker, as well as a large Buddha statue surrounded by smaller statues. In addition to the wall frescoes, the ceiling of the main building is also decorated with ancient paintings.

Inside the building, several offerings, candles, and flowers left by believers can be found. Small altars dedicated to various gods have also been placed throughout the complex.

At the southwest corner of the temple and the stupa is a small sanctuary dedicated to Daun Penh. Believers bring offerings and pray at this shrine to honor this legendary figure.

To the west of the vihara (main building), there is also a stupa containing the ashes of King Ponhea Yat, the first king of Cambodia after the imperial era. Further to the north, below the vihara, you'll find a sanctuary dedicated to the spirit Preah Chau, an idol particularly revered by the Vietnamese.

In the room to the right of the main altar is a statue of Confucius, along with two Chinese sage figures, Thang Cheng and Thang Thay.

At the northwest corner of the complex, beneath the hill, you can visit a museum containing several ancient and historical statues.

Activities to do at Wat Phnom

Wat Phnom is a favorite walking spot for tourists during the day, and the complex remains open at night. The place is so tranquil that visitors can enjoy leisurely walks amidst the nature of the park.

A large population of macaques has also made the complex their home. Until recently, tourists could take a ride around the hill on an elephant. Thankfully, this practice has ended.

In addition to its religious function, Wat Phnom is also an extremely popular tourist spot. The atmosphere at the temple is lively and friendly. The entrance to the temple is often occupied by beggars, fruit and drink vendors, and children selling caged birds.

Some visitors may be unaware, but it is said that the tomb of a Frenchman named Fourcros is located on the site. Even today, the reason for the tomb’s placement here remains a mystery. It is hidden among the plants and foliage to the left of the main entrance stairs.

The monastery also has a large garden with a giant clock. This clock tells the time, though it is a few seconds ahead of Cambodia's official time. The clock is illuminated every evening, creating a magical ambiance.

Due to its beauty, the temple is a very busy place during sacred days and Buddhist festivals, such as Pchum Ben, the Festival of the Dead. Wat Phnom is also the center of the Khmer New Year celebrations. During these events, the scent of incense fills the air on the hill. Devotees pray to the gods to grant their wishes. Once their wishes are fulfilled, they return to the temple to offer gratitude by bringing offerings.

Old trees, about ninety years old, are still present on the site. There are nearly forty species of trees still standing, each identified by a blue plaque with white lettering. Among these ancient trees is the famous "koki," a tree native to the forests of Laos. It is planted at the perimeter, surrounding the temple. You can enjoy a small picnic under these trees during your visit.

As night falls, the lights of Wat Phnom illuminate the complex, offering a spectacular view. The stele commemorating the recovery of the northern territories by the 1907 treaty is also lit up.

After the visit, you can relax or chat by the riverside. Enjoy the fresh air and admire the view from the riverbanks. A little boat ride would also be a delightful option if the mood strikes you.

How to get there?

To reach Wat Phnom, you can take a tuk-tuk, taxi, or bus. Simply ask the driver to take you to Norodom Boulevard, and then continue on foot by climbing the hill.

Hours

• Wat Phnom is open every day.