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When visiting a new country, exploring its rich history and cultural heritage is of paramount importance. The National Museum Phnom Penh in Cambodia is one such institution that enables you to learn more about the Khmer civilisation and the history associated with its existence. The museum has the world’s largest collection of Khmer sculptures and Khmer art, ranging between the 4th and 14th centuries. Dating back to the 1920s, the museum was built by French archaeologist Louis Delaporte and is one of the leading cultural establishments in Cambodia. Adding the National Museum of Cambodia to your travel plans is thus an absolute must.
Quick Details About National Museum Phnom Penh
Name: National Museum Of Cambodia
Established: 1920
Architectural Style: Khmer architecture
National Museum Phnom Penh Address: Preah Ang Eng St. (13), Phnom Penh 120211, Cambodia
National Museum Phnom Penh Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
National Museum Phnom Penh Ticket Price: $10 / ₹838 for international visitors
About The National Museum Phnom Penh
Photo: Sudzie / Wikimedia Commons
The National Museum of Cambodia is the only place in Cambodia that houses the maximum number of Khmer artefacts in one place. The museum is located near the Royal Palace of Cambodia and is surrounded by well-maintained gardens. Historical evidence depicts that the construction of the museum began on August 15, 1917. However, the museum was finally opened to the public on April 13, 1920. The inauguration was done under King Sisowath.
Initially after its construction, the museum was named “Musée Albert Sarraut,” named after the Governor-General of Indochina. It remained that way until the 1950s. Following Cambodia’s independence, the museum’s name was then changed to Musée National de Phnom Penh. Besides the historical details behind the museum, the architecture of the museum also attracts tourists from across the world. It was designed by the French architect Georges Groslier and he was inspired by traditional Khmer design principles.
At present, the museum houses over 14,000 objects, including sculptures, ceramics, and inscriptions. There are sculptures and inscriptions from Angkor Wat, ancient bronzes, and intricate carvings from Hindu and Buddhist mythology.
How To Reach National Museum Phnom Penh
Photo: Dtfman / Wikimedia Commons
There are several ways to reach the museum, be it via flight, road, or rail. You can reach the nearby Phnom Penh International Airport and then take a taxi or tuk-tuk to the city centre, where the museum is located. If you are travelling from nearby cities of Cambodia, the landmark is the Royal Palace, and then from there, you can either walk or hire a tuk-tuk to reach the museum.
Things To Do At National Museum Phnom Penh
Given how expansive the National Museum Phnom Penh is, you have to pre-plan what you will do once you enter the museum. There are several different things to do and explore inside the museum.
1. Explore The Angkor Collection
Photo: Milei.vencel / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most important elements of the museum is the extensive Angkor collection that it houses. There are several art and artefacts from the different Angkor temples. Also, you can witness different sculptures from the Hindu and Buddhist mythology. Exploring these elements in the museum allows you to indulge in the religious beliefs and the artistry from that era. There are multimedia displays available too, making the exploration process a lot easier.
2. Opt For A Guided Tour Of The Pre-Angkorian Treasures
Photo: Gerd Eichmann / Wikimedia Commons
Another interesting experience that you have to witness up close inside the National Museum of Cambodia is details about the foundations of the Khmer Empire. Artefacts date back between the 4th to 9th centuries. Also, there are sculptures from kingdoms like Funan and Chenla, further enriching your knowledge about the history of this country. The elaborate display of Khmer art and architecture is better explained by the guides.
3. Ceramics And Ethnographic Exhibition
Photo: Gerd Eichmann / Wikimedia Commons
If you are intrigued by ceramics native to Cambodia, you will love exploring the ceramics exhibition up close. In these specialised exhibits, you get to witness a range of pottery including utilitarian ware to ceremonial pieces, depicting the talent and the creativity of the Khmer potters from back in history. You also get a close understanding of the different styles and techniques that were used in the construction of these ceramics, further adding to the knowledge building. Just beside the pottery exhibition lies the ethnographic exhibition as well.
4. Attend Cultural Workshops
Photo: Ismoon / Wikimedia Commons
Another one of the must-do experiences inside the National Museum of Cambodia is attending the cultural workshops there. These offer you a hands-on experience to learn about the local crafts and art from the artisans directly. There are Cambodian dance workshops and handicraft workshops where you get to learn about different arts like silk weaving and silver crafting. The best part of these workshops is their inclusivity, they cater to the interests of varying ages.
5. Visit The Courtyard Garden
Photo: AKS.9955 / Wikimedia Commons
The museum’s central courtyard is a tranquil space featuring a traditional Khmer garden. It’s an ideal spot for reflection and relaxation after exploring the galleries. The garden includes statues and sculptures, adding to the overall aesthetic experience of the museum.
Places To Visit Near National Museum Phnom Penh
After spending a good 2-3 hours exploring the National Museum Phnom Penh Cambodia, you can step out and explore the nearby sightseeing spots.
1. Royal Palace
Photo: Hanay / Wikimedia Commons
One of the closest tourist attractions to the National Museum is the Royal Palace, located at a walking distance of 5-10 minutes. It was constructed between 1866 and 1870 and is the royal residence of the King of Cambodia. In their local language, the palace is called “Preah Barom Reacheaveang Chaktomuk Serey Mongkol.” You can explore the Silver Pagoda, which houses a collection of priceless treasures.
Distance From The Museum: 1.4 km
Timings: 7 AM – 10 AM and 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Entry Fee/Person: $10 / ₹838
2. Central Market (Phsar Thmey)
Photo: PsamatheM / Wikimedia Commons
To learn further about the local culture of Phnom Penh, you must visit the central market, also known as Phsar Thmey. The distinctive dome design of the market is what makes the place stand out. You can find numerous shops and stalls selling fresh produce, clothing, handicrafts, souvenirs, local delicacies, jewellery, etc.
Distance From The Museum: 1.6 km
Timings: 6:30 AM – 5:30 PM
3. Killing Fields Of Choeung Ek
Photo: Timgray200 / Wikimedia Commons
If you have heard of the Khmer Rouge Era and have been curious to witness its aftermath in real-time, consider visiting the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. It is a historical site, located on the outskirts of Phnom Penh. The site includes a memorial stupa containing the remains of victims and an exhibition centre with detailed accounts of the Khmer Rouge era. In the fields, over 18,000 people were tortured and killed by the people under the Khmer Rouge Empire.
Distance From The Museum: 12.2 km
Timings: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee/Person: $5 / ₹419
Where To Stay
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There are numerous hotels near the National Museum of Cambodia. Due to the central location, you can find hotels that should cater to your budget. Some of the most popular accommodation options in the area include Mad Monkey, Onederz Phnom Penh, Raffles Hotel Le Royal, Hotel Cambodiana and The Plantation Urban Resort and Spa.
Where To Eat
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Restaurants, local eateries and canteens are available through Phnom Penh. Depending on your eating preferences and budget, you can pick one spot to eat near the museum. Some of the popular eating joints include Romdeng, Malis Restaurant, Eleven One Kitchen, NESAT Seafood Restaurant, and Vibe Café Asia.
Best Time To Visit National Museum Phnom Penh
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If you are planning the logistics of your next vacation to Phnom Penh, consider planning your visit between November and March. The average temperature during these months is 25°C to 30°C, making it ideal for exploring the museum and the other tourist attractions around the capital city.
The National Museum Phnom Penh offers its visitors a glimpse into the history of the Khmer civilisation. With an impressive collection of artefacts from the Angkor and pre-Angkor civilisation, there’s a lot to learn about Cambodia and its past by visiting the museum. For a comprehensive travel experience, plan your visit to Cambodia with TripXL and consider exploring the museum and its surroundings.
Cover Photo: Chanratanak Nay / Unsplash
