Royal Palace

While there are many buildings inside the Royal Palace compound, the main tourist attractions are the Throne Hall—where Cambodian kings are crowned—and a few surrounding buildings. On the southern edge of the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda (Wat Preah Keo) is another highlight. Also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the Silver Pagoda houses images of the Buddha made with precious metals, crystal, and gemstones.

To understand the significance of the site more fully, hire a guide or join a tour; the Royal Palace includes few interpretive signs for visitors. Many guided city tours feature the palace as an included stop.

• The Royal Dance Troupe sometimes performs at the open-air theater in the coronation hall.

• If you’re planning to take photos, you may need to pay a camera fee upon arrival.

• Credit cards are not accepted at the ticket office, so bring cash. A handful of ATMs are located within walking distance.

The Royal Palace is centrally located near Sisowath Quay, walking distance from many hotels and top attractions in Phnom Penh. If you’re coming from farther afield, consider taking a cyclo, or bicycle rickshaw, which is used most often when traveling short distances. Alternatives include motorcycle-powered tuk-tuks and enclosed taxis; be sure to negotiate the price before departure.

The Royal Palace is open daily from 7:30–11am and 2–5pm. To avoid crowds and steamy afternoon temperatures, visit when the Royal Palace first opens. Since the east-facing palace complex catches great light in the mornings, that’s also the best time for photography.

Modest dress is required for men and women at the Royal Palace, which means covering knees and elbows. Shirts are usually available for sale near the entry point. Keep in mind that shawls may not be considered sufficient coverage if you’re wearing something skimpier beneath. In some areas of the Royal Palace, guests must remove footwear; plan ahead by wearing shoes that are easy to slip on and off throughout your visit.

Excluding public holidays and religious celebrations, the Royal Palace is typically open to visitors every day. Visiting hours are split into two shifts—usually from 8:00am to 11:00am and then again from 2:00pm to 5:00pm. Check ahead of your visit to confirm the day’s schedule.

The entrance fee for Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace is typically around 367 baht, and children under 3 years of age can visit for free. A guide, which can be booked at the entrance, costs extra. Fees vary, so have extra cash on hand and always check for updates before visiting.

The dress code for visiting the Royal Palace is all about modesty—it’s a sign of respect for the site’s cultural and religious significance. Both men and women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Avoid wearing hats or caps inside the palace grounds.

The main attractions inside Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace complex are the Throne Hall (a total of seven buildings) and Silver Pagoda, though the gates and grounds are worth perusing, too. The Silver Pagoda is known for a floor inlaid with silver tiles, the Emerald Buddha, and a diamond-encrusted golden Buddha.

Yes, guided tours are available at the Royal Palace. Guides can be found near the entrance by the ticket counter. Tours cost an additional fee; be sure to confirm the price before the tour begins. Alternatively, third-party tour operators also run excursions, with some covering transportation, as well.

Yes, you can take photographs of the buildings in the outdoor areas and around the grounds. However, photography is strictly prohibited inside most buildings, including inside the Throne Hall and the Silver Pagoda. If you’re unsure, ask a staff member whether photography is permitted in the area you are visiting.