Where are the best places to take photos in Phnom Penh?
Here are 5 top spots in Phnom Penh that are great for photography, each offering a unique angle on the city’s history, culture, and atmosphere:
- Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda
A must-shoot for architectural beauty—gleaming golden spires, reflections in ponds, manicured gardens. The Silver Pagoda, within the palace grounds, features glittering pagoda floors and a stunning jade Buddha. Best lighting by mid-morning on a clear day.
- Sisowath Quay (Riverside Promenade)
A bustling 3km riverfront along the Tonlé Sap, ideal for sunset, street scenes, boats, and colonial-era architecture. Don’t miss the FCC rooftop for elevated shots.
- Central Market (Psar Thmei)
Iconic Art‑Deco dome teeming with color and life. Great for capturing textures, structure, vendors, and vibrant produce. Arrive in the morning, or for nighttime ambiance, come later .
- Wat Phnom
Perched on a hill with Buddhist architecture and panoramic views of the city. A great choice for sunrise or sunset shots.
- Independence Monument
Stand out with its striking lotus-stupa design. Dramatic both day and night—illuminated after dark, and symbolic during national celebrations.
Bonus locations (if time allows):
Russian Market (Psar Tuol Tom Poung) – vibrant alleyways, street life, local crafts. Wat Ounalom – a peaceful, lesser‑visited temple with ornate stupas and Buddhist rituals. Street art zones (e.g., Bassac Lane, Street 240) – modern murals set against local backdrops.
Tips & Timing
Golden Hours: Early morning and late afternoon light are ideal. Permissions & Respect: Ask before photographing monks and vendors. Mind temple dress codes. Gear Advice: A polarizer enhances temple colors; a zoom lens helps with candid street or river shots.
These five locations create a compelling photography route—from regal temples and lively markets to reflective riverside grandeur and modern art. Want tips on hidden corners, local vendors, or golden-hour timing for each spot?
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