To the north of Phnom Penh’s city center in Cambodia stands a modest hill, barely a hundred meters high. You might be surprised to learn that the capital city of Phnom Penh traces its origins back to this very spot.
Atop this hill stands the famous Wat Phnom, the oldest structure in Phnom Penh and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. It has borne witness to the city’s origin, development, and prosperity. Today, it remains a popular site where people come to pray for good fortune, with incense wafting through the air and a steady stream of worshippers.
According to legend, in 1372, a woman named Lady Penh discovered four bronze Buddha statues and a statue of Vishnu at this site. She funded the construction of a temple atop the hill to enshrine these sacred figures—what is now known as Wat Phnom. Over time, a bustling town gradually developed at the foot of the hill. In honor of Lady Penh, the hill was named “Phnom Penh”—with “Phnom” meaning “hill” and “Penh” referring to Lady Penh in the Khmer language. This name eventually became the name of the city itself.
So, if you’re visiting Phnom Penh, why not take a trip to Wat Phnom?
At the base of the hill, you’ll find a long staircase leading up to the temple, flanked by two intricately carved seven-headed naga (serpent deity) statues. In Cambodian culture, the seven-headed naga is a sacred symbol of the nation’s origin and a divine guardian of its prosperity, representing harmony in nature and blessings of favorable weather.
Along the railings on both sides of the staircase, you’ll find numerous decorative statues to admire. At the top of the steps lies Wat Phnom itself.
The temple is built in traditional Khmer architectural style. Its main hall features a pink exterior with a red base. On the raised platform at the front stand two stone lion statues guarding the entrance. The rectangular roof is supported by a row of small divine figures positioned between the eaves and columns, giving the temple a balanced and solemn appearance.
Stepping into the main hall, you’ll find a golden Buddha statue enshrined at the center. Surrounding it are murals depicting scenes from the life of Siddhartha Gautama. Devotees often place offerings of fruit and present beautiful lotus flowers before the statue as a sign of reverence and devotion.
Behind the main hall stands a white, cone-shaped stupa. Its base consists of a three-tiered square platform, with each tier featuring four small towers at the corners, along with stone lions and Buddha statues in the Angkor style.
Beneath the white stupa lies a small shrine, and in front of it stretches a large grassy clock. Looking from one end of the clock, the shrine and stupa appear nestled among lush, leafy trees, creating a scene of natural harmony and tranquility.
On the southern slope of the hill, there is a small sanctuary dedicated to Lady Penh, featuring her statue. Many faithful visitors come here to kneel and offer their prayers in gratitude.
Throughout the grounds of Wat Phnom, you’ll also find numerous lifelike statues. These exquisitely detailed sculptures are a testament to the superb craftsmanship of the Khmer speople and their rich artistic heritage.
