About Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh, Cambodia's bustling capital and largest city, is a dynamic metropolis known as the "Pearl of Asia" for its stunning French colonial architecture, riverside charm, and rich cultural heritage. Established as the capital in 1865, the city sits at the confluence of the Mekong, Tonle Sap, and Bassac rivers, creating a picturesque waterfront that has defined its character for centuries. With a population of 2.43 million growing at 3.11% annually as of 2025, Phnom Penh serves as the political, economic, and cultural heart of Cambodia. The city has transformed dramatically from the devastation of the Khmer Rouge era into a vibrant modern capital that balances rapid development with preservation of its historical identity. The recent opening of Techo International Airport on September 9, 2025, marks a new chapter in the city's evolution as a regional hub.

The city offers visitors a profound journey through Cambodia's complex history, from the opulent Royal Palace with its glittering golden roofs to the sobering Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields at Choeung Ek, which serve as powerful reminders of the nation's tragic past. Phnom Penh's street life is intoxicatingly vibrant, with the Art Deco Central Market and the labyrinthine Russian Market offering everything from fresh produce to exquisite silk handicrafts. The three-kilometer Sisowath Quay riverside promenade has become the city's social centerpiece, where locals and tourists gather at sunset for boat trips, dining, and evening strolls. The Independence Monument stands as a proud symbol of Cambodia's freedom from French colonial rule, while the National Museum houses the world's finest collection of Khmer sculpture. As the city continues to modernize with new infrastructure and international investments, Phnom Penh remains deeply rooted in Buddhist traditions and Cambodian culture.