Bophana Audiovisual Resource Center - a sign on the side of a building that says boh tea centre
1 / 10

Bophana Audiovisual Resource Center

4.5
·195 reviews·Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Explore Cambodia's audiovisual heritage through films, photos, and art. A free, quiet space for learning and cultural discovery.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Quieter for reflection

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Bophana Audiovisual Resource Center - a sign on the side of a building that says boh tea centre

Bophana Audiovisual Resource Center

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Quieter for reflection

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Cambodia's audiovisual heritage through films, photos, and art. A free, quiet space for learning and cultural discovery.

4.5
(195 reviews)

"A wonderful place to explore Cambodia’s rich history, culture, and arts."

Vertical photo
TIP

Free Admission! :money_with_wings:

Entry is free, but donations are appreciated to support the center's preservation efforts.

Venue for Events :microphone:

The center offers space for mini-events, screenings, and training sessions.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cambodian Heritage Archives

Cambodian Heritage Archives

Exhibition halls

Explore rare films, photographs, and recordings that tell Cambodia's story.

Art Exhibitions

Art Exhibitions

Downstairs gallery

Discover captivating hand-made art, including paintings and sculptures.

Film Screenings

Film Screenings

Screening room

Watch fascinating documentaries and films about Cambodian history and culture.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Free Entry, Big Impact

Discover Cambodia's rich history and culture at the Bophana Audiovisual Resource Center. Entry is free, though donations are welcome to support their work. It's a quiet, contemplative space perfect for learning.

Beyond the Archives

This center isn't just for viewing historical documents; it's a hub for filmmakers and cultural events. Consider it for screenings or workshops if you're looking for a unique venue in Phnom Penh.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter for reflection
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Staff are helpful
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

I'm looking for any local venue in PP to set up a screening of my latest film. Could anyone suggest a fitting space?

Free Admission! :money_with_wings:

Entry is free, but donations are appreciated to support the center's preservation efforts. Reddit

Venue for Events :microphone:

The center offers space for mini-events, screenings, and training sessions. Reddit

Quiet & Contemplative :books:

Ideal for those seeking a peaceful environment to explore Cambodian history and arts. Reddit

Support Local Artists :art:

Features hand-made art, paintings, and sculptures from local creators.

Tips

from all over the internet

Free Admission! :money_with_wings:

Entry is free, but donations are appreciated to support the center's preservation efforts. Reddit

Venue for Events :microphone:

The center offers space for mini-events, screenings, and training sessions. Reddit

Quiet & Contemplative :books:

Ideal for those seeking a peaceful environment to explore Cambodian history and arts. Reddit

Support Local Artists :art:

Features hand-made art, paintings, and sculptures from local creators.

What Travellers Say

4.5
(195 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Bophana Audiovisual Resource Center for its free entry and its role in preserving Cambodia's rich history and culture through extensive archives and art exhibitions. It's highlighted as a quiet, contemplative space ideal for learning and research, and also a potential venue for cultural events and film screenings. Some noted the presence of a bar nearby as a convenient addition.

"Nice place to explore of history of Cambodia. It’s the best place for filming, exploring the historical documents with quite environmental. Especially it free to visit and they can provide venue to for mini events or training too."

sreynith nhev

"One Book One Community has been come to make a training session under the topic (Storytelling Skills) by Wakana Nukui at Bophana Center, Bophana Center is a wonderful place to explore Cambodia’s rich history, culture, and arts. The exhibitions and archives are well-curated, offering visitors a chance to learn from rare films, photographs, and recordings. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the staff are knowledgeable and helpful. It’s also a great space for cultural events, screenings, and workshop that support young artists and filmmakers. Highly recommended for anyone interested in discovering Cambodia’s heritage in meaningful way."

Nhean Puthea

"A showcase of hand-made art, both paintings and sculptures.
The only interesting thing about this place is that it has a bar in the same area."

Dharunpob Oriza Pintakul

What People Like

Free entry and donations
Rich historical archives
Art exhibitions

What People Dislike

Limited dining on-site

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The center is located in Phnom Penh. You can reach it by tuk-tuk or taxi. It's a well-known cultural spot, so most drivers will know the way. Reddit

While specific parking details aren't widely advertised, tuk-tuks and taxis can drop you off directly at the entrance. Street parking might be available nearby, but it's best to confirm upon arrival.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, admission to the Bophana Center is completely free! You just need to register upon entry. Donations are encouraged to support their work. Reddit

The center is generally open during regular business hours, typically weekdays. It's advisable to check their official channels or call ahead for the most current opening times, especially around holidays.

Yes, the Bophana Center can provide venue space for mini-events, screenings, and training sessions. Inquiries for venue rental should be directed to the center's administration. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore extensive archives of Cambodian films, photographs, and recordings, view art exhibitions, and attend film screenings. It's a great place to learn about Cambodia's history and culture. Reddit

Absolutely. The center's archives are a valuable resource for researchers interested in Cambodian audiovisual history. The quiet environment is conducive to focused study. Reddit

While formal guided tours might not be a daily offering, the staff are knowledgeable and helpful. You can often get insights and information by speaking with them directly. Reddit

Visitors describe the atmosphere as welcoming, quiet, and contemplative, making it an ideal spot for learning and reflection on Cambodia's heritage. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the center itself focuses on archives and exhibitions, one review mentioned a bar in the same area, suggesting nearby options for refreshments or a drink. Reddit

It's generally best to consume food and drinks outside of exhibition and archive areas to preserve the materials. There might be designated areas for this, or you can enjoy them at nearby establishments.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary, especially in archive areas where flash might be prohibited to protect delicate materials. It's advisable to check for signage or ask staff before taking photos. Reddit

The art exhibitions and the general ambiance of the center can be quite photogenic. The entrance area and any public spaces are usually good for capturing the feel of the place. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Bophana Center offers a quiet and educational experience that can be engaging for older children and teenagers interested in history and culture. While not a playground, the visual nature of the archives and art exhibitions can capture their attention. The free entry makes it an accessible outing for families on a budget. Reddit

Consider visiting during quieter hours to ensure a more focused experience for younger visitors. Discussing the historical context of what you see can enhance their learning. The center's role in preserving Cambodia's heritage provides a valuable lesson in cultural appreciation.

🎬 Aspiring Filmmakers & Researchers

For those in the film industry or academic research, the Bophana Audiovisual Resource Center is an invaluable resource. Its extensive archives provide primary source material for understanding Cambodian history, society, and cinema. The center also offers a potential venue for screenings and workshops, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing. Reddit

Take advantage of the knowledgeable staff who can guide you through the collections. The quiet environment is perfect for in-depth study. Consider reaching out in advance if you have specific research needs to ensure the best possible experience.

🏛️ History & Culture Enthusiasts

This center is a must-visit for anyone passionate about Cambodian history and culture. You'll find a treasure trove of rare films, photographs, and recordings that offer profound insights into the nation's past. The art exhibitions add another layer to the cultural exploration. Reddit

Allow ample time to immerse yourself in the archives and exhibitions. The free admission makes it an accessible way to deepen your understanding of Cambodia's heritage. The center's mission to preserve these stories is truly commendable.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Preserving Cambodia's Visual History

The Bophana Audiovisual Resource Center is a vital institution dedicated to safeguarding and promoting Cambodia's rich audiovisual heritage. It houses an extensive collection of films, photographs, audio recordings, and documents, offering a unique window into the nation's past, from its golden age to the tragic Khmer Rouge era and beyond. This archive is crucial for historical research, education, and cultural understanding. Reddit

Beyond its archival function, Bophana actively engages the public through exhibitions, screenings, and workshops. These activities not only showcase the collected materials but also foster a deeper appreciation for Cambodian cinema and visual arts. The center serves as a platform for contemporary filmmakers and artists, supporting the creation of new works that build upon this historical foundation. Reddit

Visitors often highlight the peaceful and contemplative atmosphere of the center, making it an ideal place for quiet exploration and learning. The free entry, coupled with the wealth of information and cultural insights available, makes it a highly recommended stop for anyone interested in Cambodia's complex and compelling story. Reddit

A Hub for Filmmakers and Cultural Events

The Bophana Audiovisual Resource Center is more than just a repository of historical media; it's a dynamic space that supports the Cambodian film industry and cultural exchange. As noted in reviews, it's a venue that can be used for mini-events, training sessions, and film screenings. This makes it a valuable resource for local and international filmmakers looking for a space to showcase their work or conduct workshops. Reddit

For filmmakers, the center offers not only a potential screening venue but also access to a wealth of archival material that can inspire and inform new projects. The presence of a bar in the same area also adds a social element, facilitating networking and discussion after events. This multifaceted role underscores Bophana's commitment to nurturing Cambodia's creative landscape. Reddit

Travelers looking for unique cultural experiences in Phnom Penh often find the Bophana Center to be a hidden gem. Its dedication to preserving and promoting Cambodian stories through audiovisual means provides a deeply enriching experience, far beyond typical tourist attractions. Reddit

You may also like