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Places to visit near Phnom Penh provide a fascinating combination of history, countryside charm, and nature retreats in easy proximity to Cambodia’s capital. From hilltop temples of old to silk villages that rise towards the sky, wild sanctuaries and colonial towns, all of these destinations offer welcome retreats from the city lifestyle. In search of spiritual contemplation, rural discovery, or tropical tranquillity, Phnom Penh’s proximity offers a fulfilling experience. From royal remains to biodiversity parks and promenades along the riverside, all these idyllic escapes will heighten your Cambodian adventure.
10 Places To Visit Near Phnom Penh
Discover 10 incredible places to visit near Phnom Penh with sacred temples, stunning islands, and wildlife parks, perfect for a day trip or cultural, historical, or nature vacations.
1. Silk Island
Photo: SAM sokkolinmony / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
A tranquil haven just 10 km from the city centre of Phnom Penh, Koh Dach, or Silk Island, lies on the Mekong River. This peaceful island is one of the most charming places to visit near Phnom Penh, renowned for its traditional silk weaving and offering a taste of Cambodian rural life. Worlds away from the hectic rhythms of the city, Koh Dach welcomes visitors with idyllic scenery, quiet roads, and sleepy villages where time has stood still. Craftspeople there uphold time-honoured traditions, displaying the entire process of creating silk, from rearing silkworms to spinning and weaving vibrantly colored silk fabrics manually.
How To Reach: Take a ferry from Sisowath Quay to Koh Dach
Major Attractions: Weaving communities, silk factories, food stalls
Entry Fee: ៛40000 / ₹860
2. Oudong Mountain
Photo: Allie Caulfield / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
About 40 km northwest of Phnom Penh, Oudong is a historic hilltop town that was the former royal capital of Cambodia. Today, a peaceful site of pilgrimage, it is visited by tourists and locals for its spiritual magnetism and breathtaking views. At the top, a row of gleaming golden stupas stands in the sky, housing sacred relics of past kings and holy monks. The ascent to the top is over 500 stairs, but it is well worth it for the spectacular view of the surrounding rice fields and countryside. The peaceful atmosphere makes it ideal for a moment of tranquil reflection and photography.
How To Reach: Tuk-tuk or taxi from Phnom Penh
Major Attractions: Stupas, Buddha images, bird’s-eye views
Entry Fee: ៛12500 / ₹270
3. Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre
Photo: Dominic Nelson / Wikimedia Commons
Approximately 45 km south of Phnom Penh lies Cambodia’s largest animal sanctuary, the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre, one of the most meaningful places to see near Phnom Penh for animal lovers and families. The government-run centre, operated in cooperation with Wildlife Alliance, is a location where rescued wildlife receives its rehabilitation and care after being removed from illegal trade, deforestation, or animal cruelty. Situated in the middle of a lush jungle environment, the centre provides shelter for a vast array of species ranging from elephants, sun bears, and leopards to gibbons and numerous others. Visitors can enjoy guided educational tours that bring out the stories of the animals as well as conservation information.
How To Reach: Taxi or guided tour from Phnom Penh
Major Attractions: Rescue animals, shaded jungle trails
Entry Fee: ៛20000 / ₹430
4. Tonle Bati And Ta Prohm Temple
Photo: Stefan Fussan / Wikimedia Commons
Just around 30 km south of Phnom Penh is Tonle Bati, an idyllic lakeside haven with a delightful mix of nature and history. The serene lake waters are bordered by bamboo shacks and flower gardens and present a picturesque picnic, family excursion, or waterside relaxation area. Nearby, within walking distance, are the 12th-century Ta Prohm and Yeay Peov temples, these lesser-known but delectably restored pieces of Khmer heritage. These temples, constructed during the Angkor era, have intricate carvings and moss-grown stonework that create an ambiance of eternal spirituality. Contrary to the crowds of Angkor Wat, the temples at Tonle Bati provide a serene and intimate setting, perfect for unhurried discovery.
How To Reach: Taxi or tuk-tuk from Phnom Penh
Major Attractions: Temple ruins at Ta Prohm, lakeside huts, local Cambodian food
Entry Fee: ៛20000 / ₹430
5. Phnom Chisor Temple
Photo: Stefan Fussan / Wikimedia Commons
Over a 133-meter hill in Takeo Province, 70 km south of Phnom Penh, stands the Phnom Chisor Temple, which is a hidden gem among the lesser-known tourist attractions near Phnom Penh. This 11th-century temple, constructed during the rule of King Suryavarman I, is an example of traditional pre-Angkorian architecture, featuring intricately carved sandstone lintels, decaying laterite walls, and ancient shrines that have stood the test of time. The climb to the top involves over 400 steps, zigzagging through roofed staircases and fields. At the peak, visitors are rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Cambodian countryside villages, rice fields, and distant hills stretching out a long way into the distance.
How To Reach: Private car or taxi from Phnom Penh
Major Attractions: Hilltop temple, ancient structures, scenery
Entry Fee: ៛15000 / ₹320
6. Takeo
Photo: JieSuang Ng / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Some 75 km south of Phnom Penh is Takeo province, a hidden gem for history enthusiasts, which unwinds the nation’s centuries-long past in an unbelievable ride. Situated there is Angkor Borei, Southeast Asia’s oldest known urban community, dated to the ancient Funan Kingdom. Visitors can view an excellent preserved museum of more than 1,500 years’ old pottery, statues, and artefacts, offering valuable information regarding early Cambodians. Nearby is Phnom Da, the top of which is occupied by an 11th-century laterite and sandstone temple considered to be among the oldest surviving Khmer temples. Approaching Phnom Da is part of the adventure; boat trips along scenic canals or by road are an option.
How To Reach: Car or motorboat via Takeo town
Major Attractions: Phnom Da temple, ruins of Funan, museum
Entry Fee: ៛12500 / ₹270
7. Kirirom National Park
Photo: Vanna 0885599228 / Wikimedia Commons
About 120 km southwest of Phnom Penh, Kirirom National Park is a refreshing highland retreat and one of the most scenic attractions near Phnom Penh. Along the eastern edge of the Cardamom Mountains, the park offers a dramatic contrast to Cambodia’s lowland heat, and hence it is the top weekend destination for locals as well as tourists. Visitors can participate in a range of outdoor activities, ranging from strolling on pine-covered trails to discovering hidden waterfalls and viewing wildlife such as exotic birds and butterflies. Scenic viewpoints along the route offer panoramic vistas over surrounding valleys and distant hills.
How To Reach: Private car from Phnom Penh
Major Attractions: Waterfalls, trekking, birding
Entry Fee: ៛5000 / ₹100
8. Kampong Cham & Koh Pen
Photo: James Antrobus / Wikimedia Commons
Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours from Phnom Penh is Kampong Cham, a quaint riverside town with colonial touches and rural charm. Along the Mekong River, the town boasts French colonial-era buildings, Buddhist temples, and tree-lined boulevards that invite strolls. Perhaps its most characteristic attraction is the seasonal bamboo bridge—a noteworthy hand-built bridge that is constructed every year by the town villagers. This bridge connects the town to Koh Pen, a serene island with stilted homes, vegetable plantations, and rice paddies dotting it. In Koh Pen, travellers can bike down dusty, windy roads, interact with the friendly Cambodians, and soak up traditional Cambodian living at a leisurely pace.
How To Reach: By bus or car
Major Attractions: Bamboo bridge, French buildings, Mekong views
Entry Fee: ៛6000 / ₹130
9. Chreav Waterfall
Photo: Malcolm Broström / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Tucked away in Kandal province, around a 3-hour drive from Phnom Penh, Chreav Waterfall is a hidden gem among the lesser-explored places to visit near Phnom Penh. Particularly best visited during the rainy months, the waterfall is unveiled by gushing streams rolling over smooth rocks, shrouded by a heavy canopy of leaves and peaceful forest cover. Contrary to more crowded tourist destinations, Chreav is comparatively unpopulated and devoid of crowds, and tourists can enjoy a peaceful environment for relaxation and reflection. The area around the waterfall features natural picnic spots with bamboo huts, where groups and families can enjoy a quiet meal and hear sounds from nature.
How To Reach: Car or motorbike from Phnom Penh
Major Attractions: Waterfalls, picnic spots, bamboo cabanas
Entry Fee: ៛15000 / ₹320
10. Phnom Penh Riverside & Royal Walk
Photo: Meizhi Lang / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Even in the bustling heart of Phnom Penh, the riverside section is a soothing respite abounding with history, culture, and nature. Begin your day at Wat Phnom, the temple atop the hill that names the city, in tranquil gardens and roguish monkeys. Next, make your way to the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, the iconic landmarks representing the authentic Khmer architecture, glinting spires, and sacred relics. A leisurely walk along Sisowath Quay evokes a vibrant promenade with palm trees, busy local markets, colonial-era architecture, and plenty of cafés and restaurants along the confluence of the Tonle Sap and Mekong Rivers. It’s a great place to sit back and watch boats pass by, experience street performers.
How To Reach: Tuk-tuk or on foot from Phnom Penh
Major Attractions: Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, local markets
Entry Fee: ៛40000 / ₹860
From ancient temples and floating villages, the places to visit near Phnom Penh offer a rich blend of culture, nature, and history. They have Cambodia’s heritage and rural charm, perfect for day trips or weekend breaks. They are near the capital and thus make for memorable experiences. Phnom Penh is also the stepping stone to exploring wonderful provinces and adjacent countries. Plan your trip with TripXL and explore these diverse landscapes and cultural treasures.
Cover Photo: Ananya Mohanty / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
