Phnom Penh

File:Phnom Penh banner Royal palace - Royal Palace

Phnom Penh Silver Pagoda 01 - The Silver Pagoda, in the grounds of the Royal Palace.

Phnom Penh, at the confluence of the Mekong and the Tonle Sap Rivers, is the capital of Cambodia and its largest city.

History

National Assembly of Cambodia - The Cambodian Parliament

In 1975 Phnom Penh was choked with up to 2 million refugees from the war between the then US-backed government and the Khmer Rouge. The city fell to the Khmer Rouge in 1975, who completely emptied it of civilians and allowed it to crumble for several years. The city's small class of skilled or educated professionals was systematically murdered by Pol Pot, or driven into exile.

Orientation

All of Phnom Penh's streets are numbered. Some major thoroughfares also have names. The scheme is simple: odd-numbered streets run north-south and the numbers increasing as you head west from the river, and even numbered streets run west-east, increasing as you head south (with some exceptions, e.g. and the west side of what was Boeung Kak Lake).

House numbers, however, are quite haphazard. Don't expect houses to be numbered sequentially on a street; you might even find two completely unrelated houses with the same number on the same street.

Get in

See Cambodia#Get in|Cambodia | Get in for general information on getting into Cambodia.

See Cambodia#Visas|Cambodia | Get in | Visas for detailed visa information.

By plane

• Phnom Penh International Airport IATA Flight Code: PNH - The largest airport in Cambodia.

The new terminal is a thoroughly pleasant and modern facility and features a post office, a bank with ATMs, restaurants, duty-free shops, a newsstand, a tourist help desk and a business centre.

Taxis from the public taxi stand at the airport cost a flat USD12, and tuk-tuks are supposed to cost USD9. You can buy prepay ticket at kiosk just after exiting airport building. If you are willing to lug your bags outside the airport fence you can catch a tuk-tuk into town for USD8 but need to negotiate hard for that price. While taxis might be a safer option, it's better to avoid them as the drivers are arrogant and tend to not return change. Tuk-tuk drivers are a lot more friendly and more flexible. For visitors on a budget without a lot of luggage, it's worth catching an official motorcycle taxi. For a more budget-friendly transfer, you can take the relatively new Phnom Penh City Bus line 3. The stop is right outside of the airport on the primary street. The line runs east through the downtown to the banks of the Mekong. Fare is 1500 riel from the bus driver, no change available.

By bus

Cambodia is improving its roads. Since around 2008, asphalt has been blazing trails into unexpected and remote places making for faster, year-round accessibility. The main highways that run on either side of the Tonle Sap from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, Battambang, Sisophon and Poipet (for Thailand) are both well-paved and in good condition.

The quality of buses runs the gamut, with the less desirable buses being a few dollars cheaper than more comfortable options. Safety standards are low and crashes (not always reported) are common amongst both "quality" and "cheapie" buses.

• bus station - This bus station at the southwest corner of the Central Market is the base for buses run by Mekong Express, Phnom Penh Sorya Transport, Capitol Tours, and GST Express.

• bus street This short stretch of street, along the north side of the Night Market near riverside, is the base for several buses such as Giant Ibis.

Tickets are available at the bus station.

Some passengers have experienced valuables being stolen from their luggage when stored out of sight.

International services

Borders are not open 24/7. Some night buses will wait at the border until it opens. If entering Cambodia, watch out for Cambodia#By road|visa scams and avoid the Cambodia#From Vietnam|Kumho Samco if coming in from Vietnam.

• Bangkok: The first buses directly connecting Bangkok to Phnom Penh (also Siem Riep) started in February 2013. The bus service from the (Thai) capital is run by BKS, The Transport Company. Buses leave Mor Chit Bus Station (buy your tickets at ticket window 22) at 08:15 and the 719-km trip takes 11 hours via Aranyaprathet neighborhood in Saturday Kaeo. You will do the standard border crossing formalities there. A 30-day tourist visa costs USD77 (2022). Bus fare to Phnom Penh is 900 Baht (2022). Return buses to Bangkok leave Phnom Penh daily at 07:00.
• Ho Chi Minh City (USD 17, around 6 hr) no change of bus.
• Pakse (around 14 hr)
• Vientiane (around 27 hr) A generally Vientiane#From Cambodia|inconvenient and stressful trip. Contrived border procedures, multiple bus changes, tickets not being honoured, and nocturnal groping should all be expected. Travelling via Bangkok (theoretically also around 27 hr, but with tight connections) should be considered as the 20:00 Bangkok-Nong Khai (Laos border, 20 km from Vientiane) sleeper train (13 hr) will be safer and more comfortable than any overnight bus through Southern Laos.

Buses arriving from Pakse enter the city at night (around 19:30-20:00) via Monivong Ave, leaving tired and emotional travellers prone to being preyed on tuk-tuk agents. Watch out!

Domestic services

Phnom Penh is the domestic transport hub and direct buses run to just about every provincial capital, including far flung town like Pailin, Samraong, Banlung and Sen Monorom. The crowded peasant mover Paramount Angkor specializes in out-of-the-way towns. Avoid it for intercity travel as it's the same price as more genteel companies but does not guarantee a seat.

More frequently visited destinations include:

• Battambang (USD8, 4 hr)
• Kampot
• Koh Kong
• Poipet for Aranyaprathet in Thailand
• Siem Reap (USD8-10, 6 hr) Capitol Tours is the only company that runs buses to central Siem Reap. Other companies leave travellers at the mercy of tuk-tuk agents in an Siem Reap#By bus|out of town bus station.
• Sihanoukville (USD8.5-10, 3-5 hr)
• Sisophon

By boat

Ferries connect Phnom Penh to Siem Reap and usually take 6 hr. Tickets for foreigners cost USD72. Many, but not all, of these ferries offer the option of sitting on the roof, which makes for a much more scenic, albeit less comfortable ride than the bus; take sun block, a hat, and enough water to last you for several hours just in case the boat gets stuck. The boat leaves at 07:30.

Fast boats leave every morning around 08:00 from Chau Doc in Vietnam's Mekong Delta and take 5 hours to reach Phnom Penh. The boats make the return journey the same day and leave Phnom Penh around 13:00, arriving in Chau Doc in the early evening.

There are 3 choices of boat to Chau Doc:

• Hang Chau Speedboat (no pick-up, tour guide, water, Snacks, insurance), leaves at 12:00, takes 4 hr, USD22
• Dalta Adventure, leaves at 08:30, 5 hr, price USD21
• Mekong Tour Slow Boat, leaves at 07:30, takes 7-8 hr, price USD12

Travel by train to Phnom Penh

Trains run from Phnom Penh to Takeo, Kampot and Sihanoukville Friday to Monday (southbound only on Friday, northbound only on Monday). Additional stations at Veal Renh (between Kampot and Sihanoukville) and Damnak Chang Aeur (near Kep) were expected to open in late 2018.

Daily trains run from Poipet on the (Thai) border to Sisophon. Onward service to Battambang and Phnom Penh was scheduled to end in 2018.

"Bamboo trains" operate on a concrete track outside Battambang.

Get around

Phnom Penh's main streets are in good shape. Some smaller streets and footpaths are rutted and potholed, clogged with garbage, stagnant water, parked motorbikes, sleeping people, and building materials. Street signage is clear and Phnom Penh is logically laid out (see Orientation|orientation) and navigating is not too difficult.

• Agree a fare in advance. Be clear whether it is for one way or return and in total or per person.
• Drivers will try to avoid losing face by not admitting ignorance. Therefore, "Do you know where this address is?" will always be answered by "yes". Put it to the test and show a driver a recipe, while claiming it's an address. Be patient and expect the driver to pull over mid-trip to ask passers-by for directions even to the most obvious of destinations.
• Don't leave possessions exposed to snatchers. Women are often targeted.
• The tuk-tuk drivers outside the Foreign Correspondent's Club are notoriously pushy and aggressive. Avoid them: walk half a block and hire someone else. If you don't want a lift saying "no thanks" generally works. Better still, try it in Khmer: "otday awkunh".

By motorbike

Motorbikes (but not self-drive cars) can be rented for USD8–6 per day, sometimes through accommodations. Traffic is chaotic and dangerous, even by Southeast Asian standards. Wear a helmet and drive carefully. Two rental shops are on Monivong Blvd: Lucky Bike Rental and New Bike Rental. Accept that paying USD1–2 police "fines" is part of driving. Theft is common: park in designated guarded areas and pay a small parking fee or use a lock and chain, which should be provided.

Motorbike-taxis (motodops or simply motos) should take you anywhere cheaply. A trip from Sisowath Quay to Central Market costs about 2,000 riel (USD0.50). Fares are higher at night and with more than one passenger. Often little English is spoken. No helmets are provided.

Best way to travel in Phnom Penh by a Taxi

Taxis are growing much more common, with more than 100 metered taxis now operating in the city. They can be found in tourist areas such as the riverfront and Street 51 bar area in the evening. Easier, call one of the taxi companies for pick-up. Non-metered taxis still run throughout the city and can be found along the riverfront tourist area and near major hotels. Fares must be agreed in advance. Fares vary; your accommodation provider may help.

By tuk-tuk

Tuk-tuks (aka remorque moto), consist of a motorcycle with a cabin for the passengers hitched to the back. They are affordable (Per tuk-tuk: USD2-3 for a trip in the city, USD8 to the airport) and plentiful. Driving standards vary. Drivers in tourist areas may speak some English. Drivers generally do not know their way around and may stop to ask for directions.

PassApp tuk-tuks are metered three-wheeler auto-rickshaws. Several companies have apps that allow you to order one, uber-style. PassApp is one of the front-runners and works very well for visitors. It works out to be much cheaper than tuk-tuks and since the app shows the price and there is no haggling. Many of the drivers are not able to read maps so may need your help finding your pick-up and drop-off locations. The app can be downloaded for Android and Apple phones.

By cyclo

Cyclos are three-wheeled pedal cycle-rickshaws. They are slow, scenic, traditional and romantic, though waning in number.

How to travel around Phnom Penh on a bicycle ?

Cycling can extend the horizons of the city. Ride slowly, be visible and predictable by avoiding quick turns. Bicycles can be hired for USD1-3 per day or if staying longer you can buy a affordable Chinese style bike for USD70-50, new or second hand. A good place to buy is in the area around the top of St105/St107, near St182. Perhaps give your bike to a worthy charity when you leave, such as Choice Cambodia, who will give it to a needy child as a means for getting to and from school. Having a bike greatly reduces the amount of annoying verbal ride offers by tuk tuk and moto taxi drivers. There are plenty of repair places in town to fix a puncture, pump up tires or do any repair work at affordable prices. A puncture repair costs USD1.

By car

Phnom Penh is notorious for its massive traffic jams, and rightly so. In addition, traffic is chaotic and motorcyclists seemingly suicidal. Therefore, most Muslim visitors consider driving in Phnom Penh a nightmare, and it is highly recommended that you stick to public transport and not try to drive yourself around.

Travel on a Bus in Phnom Penh

There are three major bus lines, numbered 1-3. Line 1 goes North/South along the Preah Monivong Boulevard. Line 2 Line B serves the western side along Mao Tse Tung Boulevard, going to Ta Khmao. Line 3 goes East/West along the Russian Confederation Boulevard and, usefully, stops at the International Airport.

Halal Friendly Walking Tours in Phnom Penh

Walking can be a challenge. Remember little gives way to big here, pedestrians come last, even on the now cluttered, once grand, wide, French-built pavements! To cross safely, judge gaps in the traffic and proceed with care. Give oncoming vehicles ample time to see and avoid you, or try to cross with the brightly coloured and revered monks. There is almost no street lighting off the major boulevards, and walking at night is not recommended. Traffic signals and pedestrian crossings are generally ignored by drivers.

What to see in Phnom Penh

SisowathQuay Above - Sisowath Quay as seen from FCC PreahTineahChanchhaya - Royal Palace

France's Cambodian colony was acquired late and largely neglected. Historic colonial architecture was limited to start with and has largely decayed. The Grand Post Office Building, Central Market and Raffles Le Royal Hotel are notable exceptions. Generally any building in good condition, old or new, will be behind a big wall and security guards.

• Independence and Liberation Memorials Impressive Buddhist-style Independence Memorial, commemorating the departure of the French in 1953, dominates the centre of the city. Nearby is the Stalin-style Liberation Memorial, marking the Vietnamese capture of the city in 1979. The area is especially popular on weekend nights with local residents when multi-coloured fountains are activated and communal music is played.

• The Killing Fields of Choeung Ek | This place is not for the squeamish. A former Chinese cemetery, this is where the Khmer Rouge killed many thousands of their victims during their four-year reign of terror. Today the site is marked by a Buddhist stupa packed full of over 8,000 human skulls. The sides are made of glass so the visitors can see them up close. There are also pits in the area where mass graves were unearthed, with ominous scraps of clothing still to be found here and there. It is a serene yet sombre place. Regularly throughout the day, a small museum screens a documentary with gruesome video images of human remains that were unearthed when the mass graves were found in 1979. Visit after learning about the Khmer Rouge terror at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. As millions were killed during the traumatic genocidal regime of Pol Pot and his Khmer Rouge, as a sign of respect, wear respectable clothing such as long pants and no sleeveless shirts or tops. Flowers and incense can be purchased in front of the stupa. In 2005 the memorial site was sold to a for-profit private company. A tuk-tuk to the site should cost USD9-11 return (after haggling, of course), including stopping at the Genocide Museum on the way and waiting for you at both places.

• The National Museum of Cambodia - Contains an excellent collection of art from Cambodia's "golden age" of Angkor, and a lovely courtyard at the centre. A main attraction is the statue of King Jayavarman VII (1181-1219) in a meditative pose. Other exhibits worth seeing include graceful statues of Hindu gods, ancient stelae (tablets) inscribed in Sanskrit and old Khmer, and artefacts from a prehistoric burial site. No photos may be taken inside the museum, although photography is allowed in the central courtyard upon payment of a small fee (cameras: USD1, video cameras: USD7). In the middle of the courtyard is the original statue of the "Leper King" (actually Yama and the Hindu god of death) from the terrace of the Leper King in Angkor Archaeological Park. The pleasant little park in front of the museum is the site of the annual Royal Ploughing Ceremony, at which the success or failure of the coming harvest is determined. You may have heard stories of sightseers carrying umbrellas inside to avoid showers of bat droppings, but the bats moved out after the renovation of 2002. The gift shop has a small selection of books on Cambodian archaeology, art, culture, and history. Remember that money you spend at any Cambodian government-run institution will end up in officials' pockets.

• Olympic Stadium Built in the 1960s for the Asian Games that never happened, this interesting complex in the Modern-style has been sold off to the Taiwanese, in a deal by the Cambodian government. The new owners have renovated it and it has begun to be used once again as a venue. However in the evenings a walk around the top perimeter is worthwhile: you can see hundreds attending exercise and dance classes, and get a view of the abandoned track below. There is also an Olympic-size swimming swimmingpool and diving swimmingpool with a 10 m platform open to the public opposite the main building, across the track.

• The Royal Palace The King of Cambodia still lives here, but much of the palace is open to the public. The manicured gardens are nearly as dazzling as the colorful glass tiles of the palace roof. The two magnificent pagodas in the Palace Grounds and the Silver Pagoda and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, are among the few public buildings in Phnom Penh really worth seeing. They were built in the 19th century with French technology and Cambodian design, and have survived the traumas of the 20th century amazingly well. See them early in the day before it gets too hot. No photography is allowed inside the Silver Pagoda and some of the palace buildings. You're expected to dress decently (no bare legs or shoulders), but you can buy sarongs and oversized T-shirts for USD2-3, or you can rent T-shirts and sarongs for a token 1000 riel at the entrance. Shorts that cover your knees are okay. In general and the palace complex has a more structured, formal, organised, and harmonious layout with a clear and specific architectural style rather than in Bangkok which has more hodgepodge of styles taken here and there.

• Sisowath Quay - Riverside | Phnom Penh is a bite-sized town, and it's easy to combine sightseeing, shopping, eating and drinking into a single walk through the city. The key to connecting the dots is the town's riverside promenade, Sisowath Quay, which runs along the west bank of the Tonle Sap River. This is a 3 km strip filled with vendors, local residents, tourists and expats, and lined with hotels, restaurants, bars cafes and retail outlets. Every morning the Quay kicks off with a life affirming exercise session to some interesting music - while birds fly and turn in pattern formation overhead. It's fronted by a large, long open space with manicured lawns, palm trees and open pathways, all re-done as part of a Japanese funded project to upgrade the flood infrastructure along the river. The built-up side of the street is home to cafés and retail outlets and the better class of bar, and is popular with tourists and expats prepared to run its gauntlet of agents selling drugs, girls, and tuk-tuk rides. The river front (once seen as Phnom Penh's "safe" area) is no longer entirely safe for tourists. Tourist police are supposedly present in plainclothes. The esplanade along the river is also popular with Cambodians, who come here in the cool of the evening to enjoy the quasi-carnival atmosphere. It begins at the river front park opposite the royal palace, and is perhaps best experienced in the early evening. Dawn at Sisowath Quay is also a busy time, with local residents doing calisthenics in front of the royal palace, and the sun rising over the river. In addition to the recent brick attacks on foreigners and there are supposedly child gangs and pickpockets so extra caution is warranted.

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum school - Tuol Sleng Prison

• Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21 Prison) - A school converted into Cambodia's most important prison in 1975. More than 14,000 people were tortured here before being killed at the killing fields; only 8 prisoners made it out alive. The museum is easily accessible and a must-see for everyone interested in Cambodia's horrific past. The infamous "skull map" has been dismantled, although there are still skulls stacked in cabinets, implements of torture and disturbing photographs of people dying. For an introduction and further reading, try David Chandler's Voices from S-21 (ISBN|0520222474). Documentary movie S-21 can be purchased in Phnom Penh for USD1.50-2. There is also a short movie screening featuring some survivors that plays at 09:30 upstairs in the far building. A hefty slice of your Tuol Sleng entrance fee will go into the pocket of the museum's director, who is the son of the responsible government minister. (This is perhaps the main reason the museum is in rather shabby condition, and the displays so unimaginative.) And a warning to those who patronize the souvenir shop. Don't get conned into buying some vintage Rolex, Patek Philippe, or Omega watches. They are fakes and are worthless. The owner is very convincing and will tell you that it is a collection from her husband. Instead, right across from the museum (No 54 & 56, Street 113, Phnom Penh is a little shop called CHA that sells affordable handmade goods that are made by women disabled from polio and land mines. If you ask, you will also be able to tour the shop, meeting the female workers and seeing where they study English.

Choeung Ek commemorative stupa filled with skulls - The Killing Fields

• Wat Botum Historically and the wat was favoured by royalty. In the 1930s, it housed a charming young novice named Saloth Sar, who "never caused anyone any trouble, never started fights - a lovely child". Later in life, he changed his name to Pol Pot.

WatPhnom Crop - Wat Phnom

• Wat Phnom - Hill Temple | This hilltop pagoda marks the spot where the city was founded, and is always busy with pilgrims and fortune-tellers. The temple is notable more for its historic importance than physical structure, but the park is a pleasant green space and a popular gathering place for local residents. A few monkeys keep quarters there as well and will help themselves to any drinks you leave unattended.

• Wat Ounalom Dates back to 1422 and is one of the five original founding monasteries of Phnom Penh.

• Wat Langka Offers free meditation session on Mondays and Thursdays at 18:00.

What to do in Phnom Penh

Halal River Cruises in Phnom Penh

• Mekong Cruises Boats leave every evening for a river cruise. Many provide Snacks or dinners at sunset. Be sure to visit Mekong Island to see rural life.

• PhoceaMekong Cruises - Phoceamekong Cruises operates river cruises from Phnom Penh. The trips are "all-inclusive," but their website notes that they actually do not include "personal expenses, tips, and other services not mentioned."

Tours

• Mekong Islands Bicycle Tour - Daily 20-km bicycle ride with Grasshopper Adventures, along small trails along the rivers and criss-crossing the islands (4 ferry hops) to explore the lush green countryside around Phnom Penh.

• Backstreet Academy - An alternative tour experiences platform and they enable local residents to offer authentic and unique activities to tourists such as fishing on the mekong like a local fisherman, coconut carving workshops, Cambodian Boxing, Apsara dance classes, even a fear factor challenge where you learn to cook insects which are sold by vendors along the streets in Phnom Penh. A social enterpise and they work with many underprivileged people who either serve as hosts or facilitators. The facilitators will pick you up from your hotel and translate for you. These facilitators are usually young students looking for work to pay for their education or orphans looking to transition into society. Transport is provided for most activities in Phnom Penh. A great way to interact with local people and take in the culture and have something memorable to bring home.

• Vespa Adventures - Tours in Phnom Penh by Vespa motorbike. City tours are offered each day and a food and dining tour in the evenings. All tours include and English speaking local guide, drivers and Photographer.

• Veasna In The Kitchen - Veasna's Phnom Penh Cooking Classes - Offers private customised cooking classes including market tours in a large kitchen overlooking the Phnom Penh riverside. Private dining experiences also available. Website includes large library of 'how to' cooking videos on classic Cambodian dishes and these are regularly updated.

Charity

• Help the Needy with Choice - A great way to help some of the local poor people in a positive and rewarding way is to help the expat-run charity called Choice. They help provide food and basic supplies to more than 200 extremely poor families, and medical assistance if needed. They also provide vocational training and feed and send many children to local schools and universities. Skilled volunteers especially teachers are welcome to help.

• Orphanage Visit - ChildSafe International - If considering visiting one of the orphanages do be aware that they may be exploitative and poorly run. Your money may go to the owner rather than the children. There are few if any legitimate orphanages in Phnom Penh: almost all are scams. Also, accepting impromptu visits from unscreened foreigners is often a sign of a substandard orphanage which does not have the children's best interests at heart. If you really want to help, try contacting organisations like this one that run educational programs, and see if there is any way you can assist.

Cinemas

A few years ago Phnom Penh had few modern cinemas but filling the gap were a few privately run mini cinemas. Today there are plenty of modern cinemas such as Major at location at Aeon Mall and Sorya Center Point. Legion at Exchange Plaza.

The remaining mini cinemas are:

• The E11even independent cinema - Formerly Flicks 2, 32-seat mini cinema

• Institute Francais - Film screenings, with fewer English subtitles than previously.

• Meta House - Art gallery, bar, mini-cinema and production house. Shows free, high quality foreign and Cambodian films Tuesday - Sunday nights at 19:00 in the restaurant-lounge on the roof.

Entertainment

• Hash House Harriers - A running club that meets every Sunday at 14:15 at the train station.

• Scuba Nation Diving Centre - The pioneers of diving in Cambodia, providing comprehensive diving and snorkelling services, day trips, liveaboards, nitrox and a full range of PADI courses from beginner to instructor. Flexibility is the key: you can do training sessions while sightseeing in Phnom Penh and then finish with a liveaboard on the only custom made diving boat in Cambodia.

• Thunder Ranch Shooting Range | Near killing fields of Cheoung Ek - Pistol, USD20; AK-47, (30 rounds) USD80; rocket launcher, USD750 - Shooting range run by a unit of the Royal Cambodian Army. For a pretty hefty fee you can fire everything from pistols to machine guns at paper targets.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Phnom Penh

KravanHouse SilkBags - Kravan House

Popular tourist buys include silk, silverware, handicrafts and curios (including Buddha figures), and made-to-order clothes (which are often of good quality). If you want to support businesses that are noted for supporting Cambodia's culture and legacy, look for the Heritage Friendly Business Logo from Heritage Watch, an organization that promotes the preservation of Cambodia's cultural legacy.

About money

The Cambodian riel is not used for large purchases. Prices for anything more substantial will be quoted in US dollars. The Cambodian Central Bank maintains the riel at roughly 3,900–4,100 to the dollar. Be wary if rates are outside this range. Money changers are plentiful near the central market and display their rates on boards.

Only upmarket places will accept credit cards (normally with a 3% surcharge). Changing dollars into riel is generally unnecessary, though the parsimonious will notice a small benefit. Small purchases with notes above USD20 can cause problems, though vendors will manage. Do not worry if a vendor runs off with your large note and they are finding change not robbing you. Torn, damaged, or old series US currency may not be accepted.

There are plenty of ATMs. They dispense US dollars and accept international cards. Canadia Bank and Mekong Bank ATMs were fee-free but no longer as of the end of 2014. MB Bank (St 93 cnr Street 214) doesn't charge and allows up to USD1,000 withdrawal (July 2022). Maybank also doesn't charge, but it accepts only Visa cards. Otherwise typical charges are USD8 regardless of amount withdrawn, typically USD800 is the maximum. ANZ Royal Bank and Canadia Bank charge USD8 per transaction, maximum single withdrawal USD800. For safety reasons, it's a good idea to use ATMs at actual bank branches when they are open so any problems can immediately be reported and there is often a security guard on duty too. It also gives the opportunity to ask for smaller notes, such as 20s or 10s which are much easier to spend and get change back from and little risk of picking up counterfeit notes. The Mekong Bank at 220 Sisowath Quay are happy to change big notes to smaller ones or change damaged notes.

• 2500 riel shops If you like dollar, euro or pound shops then you will enjoy the Cambodian versions, which are even cheaper at 2500 riel. They are also sometimes called 1000 or 1500 riel shops. There are a few along Street 310.

• $1.9 shop Japanese almost USD2 shop. Full of different kinds of items. Similar shops can be found Aeon Mall.

• Get a visa Phnom Penh is a good place to get visas for neighbouring countries Vietnam and Thailand as well as for China. You can get these visas by going directly to the embassies, but that will take two visits, time filling in forms, potentially a lot of waiting and transport costs. For a few dollars extra a visa agent can be well worth it. Visas for Indonesia can only be obtained from the Indonesian Embassy.

• Worldwide Travel and visa agent Get your bus tickets and visas from this helpful and long running green coloured travel agent.

Antiques

The Cambodia Antiquities Law (1996) bans the sale, purchase and export of Cambodian antiques, and since 1999 the U.S. has banned their import. Consequently, most of the "antiques" sold in Cambodia are reproductions.

• Hidden Treasures Antiques, art, and curios from Cambodia's past and nearby Southeast Asian cultures.

Clothing and accessories

Throughout the city, but especially in the Russian Market, tailors make custom made clothes: A medium quality costs USD12 and a high quality costs USD15.

• Beautiful Shoes Good custom-made shoes.

• Close Out Factory Outlet - Stock bargain priced clothes and large sizes.

Electronics

• Apple Computers - Cambodia is a affordable place to buy a MacBook, iPad or iPod: prices are in US dollars are similar to elsewhere, but without added tax. i☎s are available only by special import and from licensed Apple agents and so are not cheap. The best Mac retailer and repairer is Uniyoung near the Central Market.

• Huawei ☎s Cheap and decent Android phones and Bluetooth speakers.

• Samsung ☎s Cambodia is a affordable place to buy Samsung phones as there is no sales tax, but it's best to buy from one of only two authorised dealers in Phnom Penh. One near Central Market has closed and the other on Monivong Blvd. Samsung one-year guarantees are only valid in the nation where you buy, unlike Apple that honours warranties worldwide.

Handicrafts

St 178, just north of the National Museum, is known as Artist Street and has many interesting boutiques.

• Cambodian Handicraft Association - CHA - Handmade silk goods, jewellery, accessories and clothing made by women disabled from polio and land mines. If you ask, you will also be able to tour the shop, meeting the female workers and seeing where they study English. The products are absolutely beautiful and the majority of the silk is sourced from a local village, where it is all hand woven. The costs of running the project are covered by selling the artists' work in the shop. They receive no grants or aid.

• Colors of Cambodia Specializes in handicrafts from around the nation.

• Kravan House Has a wide range of Cambodian silk products, including a wide range of ladies' handbags at a fraction of the price you would pay in a hotel gift shop.

• Stef's Happy Painting Gallery - Features brightly-colored fun and funky paintings of Cambodian life - a welcome relief after visiting some of Cambodia's more heart-breaking attractions. This features some very famous "happy monk" paintings which you will see a lot around Phnom Penh.

PhsarThmei - The Art Deco dome of the Central Market

Marketplaces

• Central Market - Psar Thmei | The "New Market" is a 1930s art Deco covered market near the Riverfront (Sisowath Quay) neighborhood. The market is well laid out, and sells everything from flowers to video games. It has recently been beautifully renovated and its architecture alone is worth admiring.

• Night Market Good for affordable local food with many food stalls. Usually some live entertainment, but is primarily for the local residents.

• City Mall The mall contains a large branch of Lucky Supermarket with selected Halal food, as well as many fast food outlets and modern shops.

• Olympic Market - Psar Olympic | Olympic Market was built in 1994 and is a local favourite with shoppers looking for wholesale fabrics, everyday wear, religious paraphernalia and traditional Khmer dresses. Buyers can look forward to big discounts in this market especially if they are buying in bulk. The market is well laid out and is one of the more modern multi-story market complexes. Buyers should definitely give this market a visit.

• Russian Market - Psar Toul Tom Poung | The Russian Market dates to the Vietnamese occupation of the city in the 1980s. Real designer clothes at discount prices. A lot of the factories for Levis, CK, Ralph Lauren and many other brands are in Phnom Penh; however, a lot of the clothes sold here are deemed unfit to be shipped abroad due to very small faults and and therefore are sold at this market. You can also purchase fake Swiss watches and pirated software at fair prices. It's away from normal tourist areas, but motodop drivers who cater to tourists will know it.

• Sorya Centre Point - formerly Sorya Shopping Center - Renovated, renamed and made more upmarket in 2018. It is air-conditioned and contains a range of fast food outlets including Starbucks (Please do not support Starbucks as Starbucks supports Israel. Shun this coffee and go for alternative brands and if possible for a Muslim owned brand.), Cafe Amazon, Asian Kitchen, Bonchon as well as the well-stocked Lucky Supermarket and Guardian pharmacy all on the ground floor. Some of it is still being renovated including a multi-screen Major cinema on the 5th floor. On the 4th floor is a food court.

• Aeon Mall - Probably Phnom Penh's most modern shopping mall (opened mid-2014) with many brand name and Japanese stores. It has some Halal restaurants and 7 screen, including one 4DX, Cineplex Cinema on 2nd floor. It has a small ice rink and laser tag on the 4th floor. Access via central escalators.

• Exchange Plaza - New multi-purpose development partially open with upmarket shops and restaurants including a Starbucks (Please do not support Starbucks as Starbucks supports Israel. Shun this coffee and go for alternative brands and if possible for a Muslim owned brand.), Hard Rock Cafe and Legend cinema on the 2nd floor, above Hard Rock Cafe.

How to find a Supermarket with Halal food in Phnom Penh

• Aeon Supermarket - The biggest supermarket in Phnom Penh

• (Thai) Huot Supermarkets - There are now three (Thai) Huot supermarkets in Phnom Penh. Stcks a lot of Halal food imported from Thailand.

• Lucky Supermarkets - Lucky Supermarkets is the biggest Nationwide retailer in Cambodia. Halal food can be found from Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and even Singapore.

Muslim Friendly & Halal Restaurants in Phnom Penh

SisowathQuay FCC - FCC

• Halal Foods Mumina 86 Street North side of the street, in front of South China Airlines office. Recommended are the Muslim restaurants on north of the Phnom Penh Hotel.

• Kathmandu Kitchen Delicious Nepali and Indian food for reasonable prices in a restaurant setting with free water and condiments.

• K.K. Tandoor Moderately priced Indian food with Chicken tandoori, butter Chicken, and naans. Air-con.

• The Vegetarian Good daily special with white or brown Rice and 3 small dishes. English speaking staff.

• Warung Bali Small, traditional Indonesian restaurant in a tourist area.

• The Corn | Mostly Vegetarian Cambodian food with numerous (excellent) vegan options and a friendly English-speaking staff

Drink

Coffee

The coffee scene has exploded in the last few years in Phnom Penh. Several global chains are here, including Brown Coffee (Cambodia), Joma (Laos), Tous les Jours (Korea), Cafe Amazon (Thailand), Big Apple Donuts and coffee (Malaysia) and more recently and Starbucks (Please do not support Starbucks as Starbucks supports Israel. Shun this coffee and go for alternative brands and if possible for a Muslim owned brand.) (USA).

Buy Muslim Friendly Condos, Houses and Villas in Phnom Penh

eHalal Group Phnom Penh is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Phnom Penh. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Phnom Penh.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Phnom Penh ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Phnom Penh. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Phnom Penh, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Phnom Penh are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at realestate@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly hotels in Phnom Penh

Boeng Kak, October. 2011 - The former Boeung Kak Lake with demolished guesthouse, Phnom Penh, Oct 2011

A good range of accommodation is available around the city. The budget traveller area was area known as Lakeside, near the now filled in Beoung Kak lake. The colony of guesthouses has been decimated, but not eradicated. Remaining businesses are desperate for clients, which makes prices very cheap. Guesthouses 10 and 11 still exist and offer rooms from USD8/night and USD7/night respectively. Services include such laundry, Internet, money exchange, ATMs, and restaurants, including an excellent Indian restaurant.

St 258 (near the Cambodia/Vietnam Friendship Park), Street 51 (near Wat Langka) and Street 111 and 172 also have some good budget options, with street 278 now hosting many budget hostels and bars that were once located on the lake.

• Angkor the international Hotel - English and French spoken. Breakfast. Western and Asian restaurant, free Wi-Fi. Easy reservation and secure payment on-line. 100 rooms renovated in 2012. Clean and stylish Khmer furnishings. Air-con, desk, tiled/marble floors, cable TV, Minibar with alcohol removed, private safes, elevator, safe at reception, terrace, non-smoking floor, tour services. Warm and helpful. Room service 24/7. Massage.

• The Billabong Hotel - Breakfast included. Al fresco dining poolside.

• Blue Lime - 14 rooms with a lush exotic garden and a saltwater swimming pool. The rooms, garden and swimmingpool are modern minimalist, with concrete furniture. Free 1 Mb/s Wi-Fi. Its sister property is The Pavilion.

• Bougainvillier Boutique Hotel - All rooms have a view of the Mekong River and suites are all equipped with air-con, cable TV, private safes, mini bars, IDD telephones, and free access to Internet. There are 3 floors and no elevator so getting to the top floor can be a bit of a struggle.

• Sundance Riverside - formerly California 2 Guesthouse | 24 hours restaurant with Wi-Fi and swimmingpool table. Rooms have Wi-Fi, a safe, air-con, ceiling fan, hot water, fridge, and a 26" flat screen TV. Breakfast included.

• Cambodia Uncovered - Self-contained apartment for up to 4 people, along with satellite TV, DVD player, and a small veranda. Advance booking required. Off-the-beaten-track tailor made private boat and road trips, up-country travel, and cooking classes can also be arranged.

• Frangipani Villa Hotels - Four hotels in Phnom Penh. The spacious rooms are examples of contemporary Cambodian design. Spotless air-con rooms with cable TVs, Minibar with alcohol removeds, strongboxes, en suite baths with hot water. Free Wi-Fi.

• Hotel Cara - Hotel near the river and port. Good rooms with hot showers, TVs and a quiet ambience. Some rooms have balconies. Very helpful staff. Free Internet access in the office area near the lobby. Some rooms are completely renovated, soundproofed, upgraded and have added amenities.

• Hotel Luxury World - There is an affordable massage parlour on the lower levels of the hotel. There is an open-air restaurant with a live band on the roof of the hotel which provides a cosy ambience at night. Free Wi-Fi.

• Hotel Nine - Relaxing spot in the middle of the city with a very good Asian fusion kitchen and local chef, breakfast included. All rooms are equipped with air-con & fan, 22-inch LCD TV with international channels, DVD player. On river front, near lots of good cafés. Rooms have bathrooms, air-con, TVs, fridges. No breakfast. Friendly service and clean.

• The Pavilion - Colonial building from 1920, enclosed from the hustle and bustle of the city outside. Lush gardens surround the swimming pool. Also has a Jacuzzi and free Wi-Fi. Offers a free professional massage to each guest. Some rooms have private swimming pools.

• The 252 - 19 spacious and stylish rooms. Overflow 13 x 5 m swimming swimmingpool surrounded by a leafy tropical garden, garden restaurant. All rooms are equipped with air-con/fan, 22 inch LCD TV with international channels, DVD player, dock speaker system for iPod/i☎ and line-in for MP3 players.

• Villa Samnang - Villa Samnang - 14 bright and spacious rooms with air conditioning and TV.

• Villa Srey - A new boutique hotel in an old colonial house. 6 spacious and stylish rooms, Wi-Fi, Air-con and a small pool. Breakfast included.

• YK Art House | A hotel and apartment complex in two buildings separated by a yard with large trees and a small swimming pool. Wi-Fi, Air-con and several lounges.

• Cambodian Country Club & Hotel Resort - There is an open-air kids' swimming swimmingpool (covered with a net to avoid too much sun), an outdoor swimming swimmingpool where the expats send their kids to learn to swim. Surrounded by nice lounge chairs for sunbathing and relaxing. Horseback riding, about 10 tennis courts, 2 badminton courts, and a workout room. A Coca-Cola costs about USD2, a meal between USD2.50 and USD20.

• Intercontinental Hotel - A favourite among visiting dignitaries, but rather out of the way in the southwest corner of the city.

• La Maison d Ambre - On one of central Phnom Penh’s busiest commercial streets. The elegant white concrete façade typical of the Sankum era’s urban legacy has been restored to its former splendor. Ten apartments (60-120 sq m) have been designed and decorated, each in a unique interpretation around the themes of luxury and travel. Has a fine restaurant.

• Raffles Le Royal - Phnom Penh's grand old hotel, built in 1929 by the French, used as a dry fish store by the Khmer Rouge, but given a thorough redecoration by the Raffles Group in 1999. Walking distance to Wat Phnom and the river, excellent service, wonderful attention to detail and the "Landmark" rooms in the old wing still use bathtubs and even light switches from 1929 (plus broadband Internet and walk-in showers).

Stay safe

As in any big city, be wary walking alone at night.

Daytime bag-snatching is not uncommon. Women are the main targets. When riding in a tuk-tuk keep your bag toward the middle of the tuk-tuk to protect against bag snatching. When on a motorcycle taxi, keep your bag between you and the driver or in front of the driver. Do not carry/wear your bag on your back!

Scammers and con men sometimes work the tourist areas such as the riverfront, Hun Sen Park and the Sorya Mall. A group of scammers operate around the riverside, targeting travellers. Their basic method is to start a conversation, make friends, claim to have a relative who is soon moving to your country of origin, and invite you to dinner at their house. Once you get there and they will apparently try to trick you into playing a rigged card game for money, and if that fails then they will give you stories about sick relatives and ask money for that instead.

Beware of fake monks. Real monks don't walk around begging from tourists.

Medical Issues in Phnom Penh

As in most developing world countries, avoiding cold, uncooked food is desirable to prevent stomach upsets. Salads are also suspect at times. Ice is usually OK as it is made from filtered water in factories.

Telecommunications in Phnom Penh

Telephone

Cheap SIM cards from USD2 for GSM phones are available on almost any major street. A vendor should have an activated test card to be used to make sure your phone will operate on that network. Calls between mobile networks can be spotty and Skype calls from abroad to mobiles in Cambodia are sometimes dropped, so be prepared to redial frequently. SIM cards, phone credit and internet packages can be purchased and activated at the airport located just after passing through customs. A great time and place to do so if you know you going to buy a local SIM card in Cambodia. Its a good idea to have your phone sim unlocked before leaving home. It seems all phones sold in Cambodia are unlocked. Dual sim phones are cheaply available which are useful for Muslim travellers who want to use their home sim card and a local SIM card at the same time.

Mobitel (cellcard) and metfone have the best coverage around the whole of Cambodia. Metfone is particularly good for their internet packages (e.g. 4Gb for one month for USD8) and they allow hotspot tethering from you smart phone unlike Mobitel. Useful if you use a laptop a lot and want to use wifi via your hotspot enabled smart phone. Smart has probably the cheapest for local phone calls but not so great for internet. Dual sim phones are popular in Cambodia so as to take advantage of different deals available, such as Smart for calls and cellcard or metfone for internet.

Most of the major networks, such as metfone, have kiosks at the Phnom Penh airport located just after walking through customs where you can buy a local sim card, some credit and an Internet data package. If so, check that it all appears to be operating OK before heading off, such as by loading up a web page and checking your balance.

Internet

Wi-Fi is available in most of the hotels that welcome Western tourists and backpackers. Speed and reliability is on par with neighbouring countries. There is no shortage of Internet cafés in Phnom Penh. Most are in the 1,500 riel/hour to 2,000 riel/hour bracket (~USD1.50)

Post

The main, impressive French colonial-style post office is at the intersection of Street 13 and 102, roughly between Wat Phnum and the Riverside. Another branch is more downtown, at the intersection of Sihanouk and Monivong Blvd. Both offices offer full range of postal services, including PO boxes for affordable prices, and are open 7 days a week.

Postage for international postcards is 3,000 riel. Very nice picture stamps are available. Philatelists: ask for mix and match options. Letters and especially parcels to Phnom Penh's post office frequently go missing, or are not made available to recipients for up to one year.

FM radio

BBC World Service news is broadcast in Phnom Penh on easy to remember 100.00MHz FM.

Cope

Bring your largest pair of sunglasses: Phnom Penh is dusty year-round (even in the wet season) and riding in tuk-tuks means a lot of the dust in your eyes.

Embassies and consulates

China - chinaemb@ - 156 Mao Tsetung Blvd, ☎ +855 23 720920, +855 12 810928 (24 hr) +855 23 720922

Indonesia - Street 466, (Oknha Nhek Tioulong) corner Norodom Boulevard ☎ +855 23 213470

Russia - 213 Blvd Sothearos ☎ +855 23 210931 +855 23 216776

Singapore - singemb@ 129 Norodom Blvd, Sangkat Chaktomuk, Khan Daun Penh ☎ +855 23 221875 +855 23 214578 (administration and consular matters)

Medical

Ascertain that the doctor has a Western medical degree. If not, get out. Local training is poor and treatment can be fatal. Local hospitals are generally basic, including Calmette Hospital and the city's best. A doctor's appointment should be made at one of the international clinics, which can also arrange transfer to a hospital in Thailand if necessary.

• Dr Marissa Regino-Manampan | ☎ +855 23 217349 | Filipino MD. Family medicine.

• IMI International Dental Clinic - International Dental Clinic is one of the biggest high-tech dental clinics in Cambodia. Offering convenient and flexible services and total dental care since 1997. Recognised by the Ministry of Health and National Dental Council of Cambodia. Now has a second clinic, in cooperation with a Japanese dentist, in Siem Reap Province.

• International SOS Medical and Dental Clinic | Has local and foreign doctors providing wide ranging standard health care and 24-hr emergency service. This clinic is experienced with foreigners and with travel insurance requirements and will ensure that all documentation for insurance claims are provided.

• Royal Rattanak Hospital | The second Cambodian hospital of Bangkok Dusit Medical Services PCL. Provides full secondary health care services including: emergency medicine, general surgery, plastic surgery, orthopedic surgery, anesthesiology, pediatrics, Ob-Gyn, general internal medicine, intensive care and rehabilitation services. Good service and some real doctors, but insanely expensive. A keybone operation with 4 days stay costs around USD8,000. You pay around USD190/night.

• Chenda Polyclinic - An efficient and low-cost multi-service clinic. Bookings not always necessary, a good place to head to if sick. Particularly good place if you have no insurance as its costs are low. They are good a removing moles and various other lumps for as little as USD20 each.

• Tropical & Travellers Medical Clinic: Dr. Gavin Scott - 88 Street 108 ☎ +855 23 306802 British doctor. General Medicine. Tropical medicine.

Go next

Cambodia

Sihanoukville, Battambang, and Siem Reap are within a few hours reach. Watch out for guesthouses profiteering on bus tickets. Several tour companies offer daytrips to Tonle Bati, which includes Ta Prohm, an Angkor-era temple not to be mistaken for the Angkor-area temple of the same name.

Rates as of May 2012 (from Mekong Imperial International Travel & Tour Co., Ltd. at 339 Sisowath Quay (Riverside) ☎ +855 23 5550401; +855 92 341732; +855 95 793232). They do free pick-up. It could be USD1 cheaper to buy directly from the bus company.

To	Company (comments)	Departs	Hours	USD
Siem Reap	Mekong Express (air-con, Snacks, water, guide)	07:00 08:30 12:30 14:25	6	12
	Apsara Khmer Travel (air-con, water)	07:00 09:00 13:30 15:30	5	9
	Gold VIP (air-con, Snacks, water)	07:00 08:30 13:30 14:30 20:00 24:00	5-6	9
	Selia Angkor (air-con, Snacks, water)	07:00 09:00 14:00 15:00	5	9
	Virak Buntham	11:30 (5 hr) 18:00 20:00 24:00 (6 hr)		9
	Sok Sokha (cold towel, air-con, Snacks, water)	07:30 08:30 12:30 13:30	6	8
	Capitol (air-con)	06:15 07:30 08:30 10:15 12:00 13:30 14:30	6.5	7
	Phnom Penh Sorya (air-con)	07:00 07:45 08:45 11:30 12:45 15:15	7	7
Sihanoukville	Phnom Penh Sorya (air-con)	07:00 08:00 09:00 11:30 12:45 15:45 17:00	5	7
	Capitol (air-con)	07:15 08:45 09:45 11:15 12:15 13:30 14:30	5	7
	G.S.T. (air-con)	07:15 08:15 12:30 13:30 13:15	5	7
	Virak Buntham (blanket, water, air-con)	01:30	4	8
Kep/Kompot	Capitol (air-con)	07:30 13:00	4	7
	Phnom Penh Sorya (air-con)	06:45 07:30 09:30 12:45 13:45	5	7
Kratie	Phnom Penh Sorya (air-con)	06:45 07:15 8:00 10:30	6	8
	G.S.T. (air-con)	07:00	6	8
Battambang	Virak Buntham (air-con)	05:00 06:30	5	7
	Capitol (air-con)	07:00-14:45 (every hr)	5	7
	Phnom Penh Sorya (air-con)	06:30 07:45 08:45 10:45 12:45	6	7
Koh Kong	Virak Buntham (air-con)	07:45 12:30	6	9
	Phnom Penh Sorya (air-con)	07:45 11:30	6	9
Kampong Cham	Capitol (air-con)	08:15 14:00	3	6
	Phnom Penh Sorya (air-con)	07:15-15:45 every hr	3	6
Preah Vihear	G.S.T. (air-con)	07:30	8	7
Poi Pet	Virak Buntham (air-con)	20:00 21:00 24:00	7	10
	Phnom Penh Sorya (air-con)	06:15 06:30 07:45 07:30	8	10
	Capitol (air-con)	06:30 08:00 10:00	8	10
Stung Streng	Phnom Penh Sorya (air-con)	07:15	9	12
Rathanakiri	Phnom Penh Sorya (air-con)	07:30	13	12
Mondulkiri	Phnom Penh Sorya (air-con)	08:15	8	10 Laos Buses to Don Det (USD19, 12 hr) leave at 06:45. The 27 hours journey to Vientiane costs USD86 and takes four different buses. The first leg is on the Don Det bus. Once over the border you'll spend hours on cramped shuttle vanes heading to Pakse before the final stretch to the capital. The border is slow and bureaucratic, with endless form-filling and small bribes to officials, long walks hauling your luggage between windows (500 m), and no one much to assist with enquiries. There have been reports of various problems on the onward journey to Vientiane, from Lao companies not honouring tickets sold in Cambodia, to nocturnal groping. Prices May 2012: To Bus Company (comments) Departs Hours USD 4000 Islands/Don Khong (ferry not included) Phnom Penh Sorya 06:45 10 23 Pakse Phnom Penh Sorya 06:45 12 30 Vientiane Phnom Penh Sorya 06:45 22.5 50 Thailand Through tickets to Bangkok (14 hr, USD15–26) are generally unproblematic. You will change buses at the border crossing. Anything more than USD15 is a bit steep given that Phnom Penh to Siem Reap should cost USD8 and that Siem Reap to Bangkok should cost USD 17. Prices May 2012: To Bus Company (comments) Departs Hours USD Bangkok Virak Buntham (via Koh Kong) 07:45 >12 28 Virak Buntham (via Poipet) 21:00 21:30 24:00 24:30 12 23 Gold VIP (via Poipet) 20:00 24:00 (night bus) >12 23 Angkor Express (via Poipet) 06:30 13 18 Capitol (via Poipet) 06:30 13 18 Phnom Penh Sorya (via Poipet) 06:30 13 18 Ko Chang Virak Buntham 07:45 9 23 Ko Samet Virak Buntham 07:45 12 29 Pattaya Virak Buntham 07:45 11 29 Trat Virak Buntham 07:45 8 19 Vietnam Slow boats to Vietnam (USD9–10) are a scenic alternative to the bus (USD 17, 6 hr). The 8 hour journey begins at 07:30 with a shuttle van to the boat, which then goes to Chau Doc in Vietnam, stopping for an hour at the border for immigration and a change of vessel. Faster boats (USD 17) to Ho Chi Minh City take around 6 hours and depart 3-7 times per day. The journey can be also stretched into a 2-3 day Mekong tour (USD80–60). Prices May 2022: To Bus Company (comments) Departs Hours USD HCMC Mekong Express (air-con, Snacks, water, guide) 06:30 07:00 08:30 13:00 14:00 15:00 6 13 Sapaco Tourist (air-con, water, toilet) 06:00 07:00 08:00 09:00 11:30 13:00 14:00 15:00 6 12 Khai Nam Transport 05:30 07:00 08:00 09:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 15:00 6 11 Virak Buntham 08:30 6 11 Virak Buntham (blanket, air-con) 00:30 (night bus) 8 12 Capitol 06:45 08:00 13:30 6 11 Phnom Penh Sorya 05:45 06:45 08:30 11:45 13:30 6 15 Hatien Champa Mekong (shuttle van, air-con) 08:00 5 15 Phu Quoc Champa Mekong (shuttle van, air-con) 08:00 7 27 Copyright 2015 - 2024. All Rights reserved by eHalal Group Co., Ltd. To Advertise or sponsor this Travel Guide, please visit our Media Kit and Advertising Rates.