Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda in Phnom Penh
Part of the Phnom Penh travel guide — see every topic in All Phnom Penh Guides.
The Royal Palace is the home of the King of Cambodia, and part of the compound is open to visitors. It faces the riverside, a short walk from Sisowath Quay. The golden roofs, tall spires and neat gardens make it the most famous building in the city. Next to it is the Silver Pagoda, named for its floor of silver tiles. This guide focuses on the architecture and on practical tips: hours, tickets and what to wear.
The palace and its style
The palace was first built in the 1860s, and much of it was rebuilt between about 1912 and 1932. The design is classic Khmer, with steep layered roofs in yellow and green, and slim golden spires. Long walls in pale yellow surround the compound. The largest building open to view is the Throne Hall, completed in 1919. It has a cross-shaped plan and three spires. It is used for coronations and state events, so you look in from the doors. Near the river wall is the Moonlight Pavilion, an open hall built in 1913 and 1914 for classical dance and royal banquets. The King's living areas are closed to the public.
The Silver Pagoda
The Silver Pagoda sits in its own walled courtyard to the south of the palace. Its name comes from the floor. It is covered with 5,329 silver tiles, which together weigh more than one tonne. Most of the floor is covered with carpet to protect it, so you only see a small part. The outside steps are made of Italian marble. Around the courtyard runs a long wall painted with a colourful mural, about 642 metres long, that tells an old Khmer epic story. The courtyard also has small stupas, statues and gardens. Photography is not allowed inside the main building, so take your photos outside.
Opening hours and tickets
The palace opens in the morning and again in the afternoon, with a long break over lunch. Hours have changed over the years. A common pattern is about 8 am to late morning, then about 2 pm to 5 pm, but check the current times at the gate or with your hotel. The palace can close at short notice for royal ceremonies or state events. You buy a ticket at the visitor entrance on Sothearos Boulevard. Guides wait near the gate and can explain the buildings, as there are few signs inside. Allow about one to two hours. Go early in the morning, before the heat and the tour groups.
What to wear
The dress code is strict, and staff check it at the entrance. Cover your shoulders and your knees. Shorts or skirts that reach below the knee are usually fine. Sleeveless tops, short shorts and short skirts are not allowed. Do not use a scarf or shawl to cover bare shoulders, as staff may still refuse entry. Wear a T-shirt with sleeves instead. Some visitors have bought a ticket, then been sent away to change, so dress correctly before you go. You remove your shoes before you enter some buildings, so easy shoes help. Bring water, a hat and sun cream, as the courtyards have little shade.
Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda at a glance
| Getting there | Sothearos Boulevard, one block from Sisowath Quay; walk or tuk-tuk |
|---|---|
| Hours | Morning and afternoon sessions with a lunch break; check at the gate |
| Cost | Entry ticket for foreign visitors; guides cost extra |
| Best time | Early morning, in the dry season from about December to April |
| Dress code | Shoulders and knees covered; no scarves as cover-ups |