Plizio Visual Lab
National Museum of Cambodia
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
The National Museum of Cambodia in Phnom Penh is the country's leading historical and archaeological museum, housing one of the world's largest collections of Khmer art. The building itself is a masterpiece of traditional architecture, designed by French architect George Groslier and constructed between 1917 and 1920. It is characterized by its deep red facade, ornate gables, and a peaceful inner courtyard featuring lotus ponds that offer a serene escape from the city. The collection includes more than 14,000 items, spanning from prehistoric times through the glorious Angkorian era to later centuries. Visitors can admire monumental sculptures, bronze works, and ceramics that provide deep insights into the spiritual and artistic development of the Khmer civilization. Particularly striking are the colossal statues of Vishnu and the intricately carved reliefs from the temples of Angkor. As the cultural heart of the capital, the museum plays a vital role in preserving Cambodian heritage and identity following the traumatic decades of conflict in the 20th century.
- Location: Cambodia
- Top sights: Former Prom Bayon Cinema · National Museum of Cambodia · Faculty of choreography
- Nearby: Takeo (26 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 28 | 30 | 31 | 31 | 30 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 16 | 11 | 30 | 62 | 129 | 190 | 163 | 167 | 190 | 167 | 89 | 28 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The National Museum of Cambodia in Phnom Penh is a public museum open to visitors. The interiors with collections of Khmer art and sculpture are fully accessible.
Typical hours
The museum typically opens from 8am to 5pm, with a lunch break (12-2pm). It is closed on most public holidays; checking current hours before visiting is advisable.
Photography
Photography without flash is allowed in most exhibition halls. Some particularly sensitive exhibits may have photographic restrictions; ask staff if unsure.
Time needed
Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours for a thorough walk through the galleries. Art lovers and historians will easily linger longer.
Combine with
The museum is in central Phnom Penh, near the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda. These three sights can be comfortably combined in one morning.
Getting there
The museum is walkable from almost anywhere in central Phnom Penh. Tuk-tuks and taxis are abundant and offer a cheap alternative, especially in the heat.
Insider tip
Rent the audio guide (if available) for deeper insights into Khmer history. The museum café in the inner courtyard is a quiet spot for a break between visits.
Geography
Facts
- Designed by French architect George Groslier in Khmer style.
- Construction took place between 1917 and its opening in 1920.
- Houses a collection of over 14,000 artifacts and artworks.
- The structure consists of four pavilions around a central garden.
- Located adjacent to the Royal Palace in central Phnom Penh.
- Contains the world's premier collection of Angkorian sculptures.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town National Museum of Cambodia (5)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How much is the entrance fee to the National Museum?
Entrance for foreign tourists is approximately 10 USD (as of 2024).
Is photography allowed inside?
Photography is allowed in the inner courtyard, but usually strictly prohibited in the galleries with artifacts.
What is the most famous exhibit?
The museum houses one of the world's largest collections of Khmer art, including the famous statue of Jayavarman VII.
Where is the museum located in Phnom Penh?
It is located directly north of the Royal Palace on Street 13 in the city center.
Are there guided tours available?
Yes, professional guides in various languages can be hired at the entrance.
National Museum of Cambodia: where is it located?
National Museum of Cambodia is located in Cambodia.
National Museum of Cambodia: what is there to see?
Highlights include Former Prom Bayon Cinema, National Museum of Cambodia, Faculty of choreography.
National Museum of Cambodia: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
National Museum of Cambodia: why is it worth visiting?
The National Museum of Cambodia in Phnom Penh is the country's leading historical and archaeological museum, housing one of the world's largest collections of Khmer art.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Cambodia →
Nearby cities
Phnom Penh
Cambodia's bustling capital city sits at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, serving as the nation's political and economi…
Ta Khmau
The capital of Kandal province is located just south of Phnom Penh and is heavily integrated into the capital's metropolitan region.
Takeo
Takeo is considered the cradle of Cambodian civilization, featuring ancient archaeological sites and a strong silk-weaving tradition.
Châu Đốc
A city on the border with Cambodia, famous for the sacred Sam Mountain and a diverse culture.
Kampong Thom
Kampong Thom is a relaxed provincial town on the Stueng Saen river and the jumping-off point for the fascinating ancient temple complex o…
Kampong Chhnang
Known as the 'Port of Pottery', this town on the Tonle Sap lake is famous for manufacturing traditional Cambodian clay pots.
Prey Veng
Located in the agricultural heartland of Cambodia, this quiet town plays a key role in the country's rice production.
Kampong Speu
Located west of the capital, this provincial city is famous for its production of palm sugar, a traditional Cambodian sweetener.
Rach Gia
Rach Gia is a charming coastal city on the Gulf of Thailand, known as the primary ferry hub for Phu Quoc Island and for its modern urban …
Hà Tiên
A scenic coastal and border town near Cambodia, known for its limestone caves and beaches.
Kampong Cham
This peaceful city is located on the banks of the Mekong River and still exudes the charm of the French colonial era in a rural setting.
Preah Vihear
This remote northern town serves as the main staging point for visitors to the spectacular cliff-top temple of Prasat Preah Vihear.
Suong
As the capital of the relatively newly created Tboung Khmum province, Suong is growing rapidly and serves as a vital trading hub for agri…
Koh Tonsay
Better known as 'Rabbit Island', this is a small, tranquil island located just off the coast of Kep.
Kep
Once Cambodia's most glamorous seaside resort for the elite, Kep is now famous for its relaxed atmosphere and legendary crab market.
History & landmarks
Wat Ounalom
The center of Cambodian Buddhism, reputed to preserve an eyebrow hair of Buddha in its main stupa.
Wat Botum
One of the most important and elaborately decorated temples in Phnom Penh, whose name means Temple of the Lotus Blossoms.
Central Market (Phsar Thmei)
A distinctive yellow art deco building from the colonial era, serving today as a bustling market for jewelry, clothing, and souvenirs.
Oudong
Oudong was the royal capital of Cambodia from 1618 to 1866.
More places
Independence Monument
The Independence Monument is a lotus-shaped landmark in central Phnom Penh.
Royal Palace of Cambodia
The royal residence complex featuring classic Khmer roofs and ornate decorations, including the famous Silver Pagoda.
Cambodia-Vietnam Friendship Monument
A massive concrete monument in Hun Sen Park, erected in the late 1970s to commemorate the alliance between the two nations.
Wat Phnom
A Buddhist temple located on the city's only hill, from which the capital Phnom Penh takes its name.
Phnom Penh Autonomous Port
A major inland port on the Mekong River, connecting the capital to international trade routes.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
A former Khmer Rouge prison that now serves as a memorial and museum remembering the victims of the genocide.
Silk Island (Koh Dach)
A peaceful island in the Mekong River near Phnom Penh, widely known for its traditional silk weaving and agriculture.
Choeung Ek
The best-known of the "Killing Fields", where a monument made of thousands of human skulls remembers the victims.