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Welcome to Phnom Penh
Cambodia’s capital may not boast the ancient Angkorian temples like Siem Reap, but Phnom Penh is a treasure trove of architectural and gastronomic wonder for those who know where to look. The tree-lined boulevards, the bustling riverfront and the city’s emerging arts and shopping scene all make it an attractive stop for any traveller.
The name Phnom Penh literally means Hill of Penh. Legend says a wealthy widow named Daun Penh placed Buddha images on a nearby hill in 1373 and when a town develops around the hill, it became known as Phnom Penh. Despite its turbulent history, the city has experienced unprecedented growth following the restoration of a stable government in 1992.
Phnom Penh has a growing metropolitan nightlife and vibrant young art scene, yet still sits somewhat paradoxically alongside scenes of poverty. Phnom Penh has plenty of attractions to keep you busy - visiting the National Museum, the Royal Palace, Wat Phnom and the infamous Tuol Sleng Museum are a must in any travel itinerary. However, in spite of their historical and cultural significance, these barely scratch the surface of what modern Phnom Penh has to offer.
There are numerous additional things to experience which will give you a better understanding of both the country and the people.
The Cyclo Centre
Despite their iconic status, cyclo drivers are the poorest of urban poor in Phnom Penh. We provide a space for them to meet and access a range of services including educational, medical and social activities, all provided free-of-charge. We also organize fundraising cyclo rallies and cyclo tours for travelers who want a novel way to see the city.
Cambodian Craft Cooperation
Although weaving and wearing silk continues to be part of Cambodia's cultural and social traditions, most weavers are unaware of their products' value, with little access to markets. Set up to address this, the Cambodian Craft Cooperation supports small and family-run craft enterprises to improve their capacity. Check out the variety of Cambodian silk on offer at the shop.
Khmer Architecture Tours
Khmer Architecture Tours (KA Tours) is an independent, not-for-profit organisation established in 2003 to promote the understanding of modern architecture in Cambodia. Our tours focus on buildings erected after Cambodia’s independence in 1953, described as ‘New Khmer Architecture’, while setting these in the historical context of Phnom Penh.
ART+Foundation
Art+Foundation is a German Foundation in Cambodia. Established in 2003, we firmly believe that the performing arts, in particular classical music, have the potential to shape and change our world through creativity, the sharing of common values, learning and communicating.
Meta House
Meta House firmly believes that contemporary art is crucial to the development of any society and is working hard to fill a gap in the arts scene in Cambodia and offers a unique intercultural and interactive forum for artists on three and a half floors. Travellers can enjoy international art house cinema and films and meet and participate in workshops with local and international artists.
Rehab Craft Cambodia
Run by and for disabled Cambodians, Rehab Craft Cambodia is a not-for-profit, non-religious, non-government organisation providing long-term and sustainable employment opportunities for Cambodians with physical disabilities. A fair trade organisation, it produces and markets quality handicrafts made by disabled artisans. Travellers can tour the workshops and see producers at work.
Sovanna Phum
Sovanna Phum (meaning Golden Era) is an independent and self-financed Khmer art association working at the forefront of performing arts in Cambodia. First established in 1994, Sovanna Phum offers real opportunities for Cambodian artists to make a living through their art by organising performances as well as nurturing, preserving and promoting the treasures of Cambodian culture through various projects.