Independence Monument

The Independence Monument in Phnom Penh was built in 1958 in celebration of Cambodia's liberation from France in 1953.

Take a 10-minute' walk behind the Royal Palace, you can easily reach the monument. Sitting in the center of the traffic circle, the monument is 20m high in the shape of a lotus, obviously reminiscent of the design of the towers of Angkor Wat. The site is also a proud testament to honor those who sacrificed their lives for the nation. Though visitors are not allowed to enter the monument, there is a big open park that seems to be a popular place with the locals - Jogging, walking, or simply feeling the gentle breezes.

The highlight Independence Monument comes at night. Everything around the site including the fountains is illuminated by blue, red and white lights, which are the colors of the Cambodian flag. On special occasions, such as Independence Day on 7 January and Constitutional Day on 24 September, the monument is the center of activity. A ceremonial flame is ignited by a high-rank official or a royal member and floral wreaths are placed on the monument's stairs.

A few blocks away from this landmark of Phnom Penh you can find Wat Phnom, the Hill Temple which is the most important temple in this city. What you should not miss are the National Museum, Tuol Sleng and the Russia Market. If you want to string them together, let us make it for you.