National Museum

Next to the Royal Palace is Cambodia's largest museum of cultural history, the National Museum that houses the largest collections of Khmer art in the world.

Built in 1917 by the French in a Khmer style around a courtyard, the museum is rust-red like a red agate placed on the land. More than 5,000 items are on display including Angkorian-era statues, lingas and other artifacts, amongst which the most notable is the original of the Leper King, whose replica is placed in the Terrace of the Leper King in Siem Reap, where it was first discovered. Pieces from later periods are also displayed here, including a special exhibition of post-Angkorian Buddha figures.

Visitors can rest and contemplate one of Asia's richest cultures here. The museum opens from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on a daily basis. Within the galleries, photography is prohibited but the museum exterior and courtyard are welcome to photograph or film. If you want to get some images of the museum or collection for study, it's suggested contact us for help. If you wish to learn more about the nation's story, visit Tuol Sleng Museum and the Independence Monument.

It's rather convenient to depart to other Asian destinations from Phnom Penh by air. A 39-Day Thailand, Laos, Vietnam &Cambodia trip is recommended to those who wish to spend time on a worthwhile Asian journey.