• Community
  • Travel

Visiting the Royal Palace of Cambodia: An Unforgettable Experience

Article by GVI

GVI

Posted: February 23, 2023

The Royal Palace of Cambodia is one of the most breathtaking destinations to visit in the country. Home to the king and queen of Cambodia, the complex provides insight into the nation’s rich heritage, architecture and culture. Taking a tour around the grounds will transport visitors to a bygone era of Cambodian history and provide an unforgettable experience.

Exploring the history and culture of the palace

Built in the late 1800s, the Royal Palace has been a major attraction for both domestic and international visitors for centuries. The complex is home to a variety of traditional structures, including tombs, palaces, libraries and monuments. As visitors take a tour of the grounds, they will learn about the history and culture of Cambodia through its impressive architecture and artwork.

The complex is also home to some remarkable sculptures of various Cambodian deities that have been preserved since the time of their creation. These sculptures represent various beliefs held by Cambodians such as animism, ancestor worship and Buddhism. The Royal Palace also showcases some remarkable murals that depict mythical events, creatures and themes that were popular during the reign of ancient kings.

Taking in the architecture and artwork of the Royal Palace

The architecture of the Royal Palace is truly stunning and visitors can take advantage of this by exploring each building’s intricate carvings, sculptures and murals. The magnificent stupa towers located in the centre of the complex offer you the opportunity to admire their intricate details. Various wooden structures, painted intricately with various traditional motifs can also be found throughout the grounds.

The various artwork includes a series of traditional Khmer statues lining the walls of various buildings as well as some large sculptures featuring fierce lions protecting the entrance to a temple. In addition, visitors will be able to admire some remarkable sandstone bas reliefs in various halls. These intricate pieces illustrate Cambodian myths, legends, religion and royalty through their detailed images and symbols.

Understanding Cambodia’s royal heritage

By taking a tour around the grounds of the Royal Palace, visitors will be able to gain an insight into Cambodian culture. Various exhibitions such as paintings, statues and carvings offer an opportunity to learn about Cambodia’s ancient customs and traditions. Traditional pieces from different eras of Cambodian history are also on display to demonstrate a comprehensive evolution through time.

In addition to its historical importance, the Royal Palace also provides visitors with an opportunity to observe various activities held at night such as traditional dances. Celebrations like these help keep alive traditional customs and are a great way to experience ancient customs while paying respects to their importance in modern-day Cambodian culture.

Cambodia’s historical landmarks

Visiting the Royal Palace is also an opportunity to learn about other historical landmarks in Cambodia. The palace grounds provide visitors with a glimpse into various ancient structures and sites located nearby such as Buddhist temples, ancient stone carvings and Phnom Bakheng – one of the oldest temples in Siem Reap. Exploring these areas is the perfect way to further explore Cambodia’s rich heritage offering visitors more insight into its past.

Royal Palace, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Tips for visiting the palace

To make the most out of your visit to the Palace of Cambodia, there are a few key tips to consider:

  • Wear comfortable clothing: As you’ll be doing a fair bit of walking during your visit, make sure you dress accordingly! Opt for cool and comfortable clothing to navigate the palace grounds easily.
  • Arrive early in the mornings: There can often be large crowds at the Royal Palace during peak times so it’s best to arrive as early as possible.
  • Bring plenty of liquids: As it can get quite hot in Cambodia during the day, make sure to bring plenty of water or other liquids to stay hydrated.
  • Bring a camera: The Royal Palace is home to some remarkable sites so make sure you bring a camera along with you so that you can capture some unforgettable photographs.

Experiencing Cambodian cuisine

The Royal Palace area is home to some delicious local cuisine for visitors to enjoy. Cafeteria-style restaurants, small food stalls and food carts can be found around the complex serving everything from authentic Khmer dishes to international cuisine such as Italian pizza. Make sure to take advantage of this local offering and give your taste buds something to remember.

Making the most of your time

A visit to the Royal Palace can easily take over an entire day so it’s best to plan ahead when visiting. Make sure to book your tickets in advance as it can get quite crowded during peak times. It’s also important to double-check opening times as these can sometimes change due to local holidays or festivities.

Finding accommodations near the Royal Palace

Once you’ve finished exploring all that the Royal Palace has to offer, you can easily find a variety of accommodation options nearby ranging from hotels and guesthouses to dorm rooms. These range from luxury options to budget-friendly alternatives depending on what you’re looking for. No matter which option you choose, make sure you book your stay in advance so that you can make the most out of your time visiting this incredible destination.

If you’re planning a trip to Cambodia, a visit to the Royal Palace is a must! This breathtaking complex offers a glimpse into the country’s rich history and culture through its impressive architecture and artwork. Make sure to wear comfortable clothing, bring plenty of liquids, and arrive early to avoid the crowds. And if you’re looking for accommodations nearby, you’ll find a range of options to fit your budget.

And hey, if you really want to get an in-depth look at Cambodia and its culture, consider volunteering with GVI. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local community while making a positive impact. Who knows, you might even find a group of friends to explore more of the country with.

what’s up next?
From Gaudí to Picasso: Barcelona’s Artistic Icons

Embark on a journey through Barcelona's captivating art and architecture. Explore the visionary works of Gaudí, Picasso, and more, set against the city's stunning landscapes.

You might also like these articles

Celebrating Cambodian New Year: A Guide
Read the article
Travel
Madagascar’s Iconic Baobab Tree
Read the article
Volunteer and Adventure
Exploring the Rich and Diverse Food Culture of Latin America
Read the article
Travel
Exploring the Spectacular Waterfalls of Ghana
Read the article
Volunteer and Adventure
Top Things to Do in Kampot, Cambodia
Read the article
Volunteer and Adventure
Volunteering with Children: Personal and Professional Impact
Read the article
Volunteer with Children
Top Reasons to Visit Ghana in December
Read the article
Community
Nine of the best volunteer programs in South Africa
Read the article
Healthcare
What Are the Languages Spoken in Ghana?
Read the article
Travel