Wat Ounalom - diagram
1 / 10

Wat Ounalom

4.4
·924 reviews·Phnom Penh, Cambodia

A serene Buddhist temple compound established in 1443, offering a peaceful escape with intricate architecture and a glimpse into monastic life.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Escape the heat and noise

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Wat Ounalom - diagram

Wat Ounalom

Best Time

Evenings

Escape the heat and noise

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene Buddhist temple compound established in 1443, offering a peaceful escape with intricate architecture and a glimpse into monastic life.

4.4
(924 reviews)

"A beautiful pagoda full of peace, offering a serene environment to reflect and enjoy the surrounding area."

Vertical photo
TIP

👗 Respectful Attire

Always wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees when entering buildings.

👟 Remove Shoes

Be prepared to take off your shoes before entering the main sanctuary.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Main Sanctuary

Main Sanctuary

Central building

Admire the intricate gold leaf, detailed ornaments, and typical Khmer architecture. A truly beautiful and peaceful space.

Reddit
Monastery Grounds

Monastery Grounds

Compound

Wander through the peaceful grounds, observe daily monastic life, and enjoy the quiet atmosphere. Look out for cute cats!

Reddit
Stupas and Pagodas

Stupas and Pagodas

Throughout the compound

Marvel at the monumental and elaborate stupas, showcasing impressive Buddhist artistry and architecture.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Dress Code is Key

Remember to dress respectfully: cover shoulders and knees. This applies to everyone entering the main buildings. It's a common courtesy that enhances your visit and shows respect for this active monastery. Reddit

Best Time for Peace

Visit during quieter hours, especially evenings, for a serene experience. Avoid midday heat and potential crowds. Early mornings are also peaceful for observing monastic life. Reddit

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Escape the heat and noise
Crowd
Low
When
Early mornings
Why
Observe monastic life
Crowd
Low
When
December
Why
Pleasant weather, nice flowers
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

👗 Respectful Attire

Always wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees when entering buildings. Reddit

👟 Remove Shoes

Be prepared to take off your shoes before entering the main sanctuary. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Free Entry

Admission is free, making it an accessible cultural stop. Reddit

🐱 Cute Cats

You might spot some friendly feline residents roaming the grounds. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

👗 Respectful Attire

Always wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees when entering buildings. Reddit

👟 Remove Shoes

Be prepared to take off your shoes before entering the main sanctuary. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Free Entry

Admission is free, making it an accessible cultural stop. Reddit

🐱 Cute Cats

You might spot some friendly feline residents roaming the grounds. Reddit

📍 Combine with Museum

Easily pair a visit with the nearby National Museum. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(924 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Wat Ounalom for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful, detailed architecture, especially the main sanctuary. It's appreciated as a free cultural stop offering a serene escape from the city bustle, with many enjoying the quiet evenings and the presence of resident cats. Some note it might have less to see compared to other major attractions, and advise on the strict dress code.

"Beautiful pagoda with bright gold and very detail ornaments. We are allowed to go inside the main building but had to open shoes. No entry ticket but ensure to take permition to go inside. Please use proper clothing (no exposure of shoulder and use below knee pants / skirts)"

agtifa primadani

"Beautiful pagoda full of peace. The building is made by typical architecture which you can admire. Don’t forget to take proper clothes (no uncovered legs and shoulders)"

Klara Dohnalkova

"The only Monastery I go to every week to donate food in the morning. Still the best Monastery inside phnom penh!

Jus beware those tuktuk driver who wanted to carry things for u from outside to inside temple.
Once I mistaken them as the temple helper. Whereby The driver kept asking for 10k riel which was very turn off."

Lawrence Tan

What People Like

Peaceful atmosphere
Beautiful architecture
Free entry

What People Dislike

Strict dress code
Less grand than others

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Wat Ounalom is conveniently located near the riverside in Phnom Penh. Many visitors arrive by tuk-tuk or taxi, which are readily available throughout the city. It's also a pleasant walk if you're staying nearby along the riverfront. Reddit

While direct public buses might be limited, tuk-tuks are the most common and practical way to reach Wat Ounalom. They can be hailed easily and are relatively inexpensive for short distances. Reddit

Yes, Wat Ounalom is very walkable from several key Phnom Penh attractions. It's situated close to the National Museum of Cambodia and the Royal Palace, making it easy to incorporate into a walking tour of the city's central sights. Reddit

From Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH), the most straightforward options are a taxi or a pre-booked ride-sharing service. This will be more comfortable and direct than navigating local buses with luggage. Reddit

While there isn't a dedicated large parking lot, tuk-tuks and taxis can usually drop you off right at the entrance. If you're driving yourself, you might find street parking nearby, but be mindful of local traffic rules. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Wat Ounalom is free. This makes it a very accessible and budget-friendly attraction for all visitors. Reddit

Wat Ounalom is generally open from early morning until late evening, often staying open until around 9 PM. This allows for peaceful evening visits. Reddit

To experience the most peace and quiet, aim for early mornings or late evenings. Weekday mornings are typically less crowded than weekends or afternoons. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed on the grounds, but always be respectful. Inside the main sanctuary, it's best to check for any specific signage or ask permission before taking photos. Reddit

Yes, a respectful dress code is essential. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered when entering any of the temple buildings. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can admire the elaborate stupas, explore the peaceful monastery grounds, observe the daily routines of monks, and appreciate the intricate architecture of the main sanctuary. It's a great spot for quiet reflection. Reddit

Yes, the peaceful grounds can be enjoyable for families. Children can explore and observe, but ensure they are supervised and respectful of the religious site. The lack of entry fees is a plus. Reddit

A visit can range from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much you wish to explore and soak in the atmosphere. It's often combined with nearby attractions. Reddit

Basic facilities might be available, but it's always a good idea to carry your own water, especially during hotter months. Restrooms might be simple. Reddit

Besides covering shoulders and knees, wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be on your feet. Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to the heat. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The main sanctuary with its ornate details, the various stupas, and the serene monastery grounds offer excellent photographic opportunities. The frangipani flowers in cooler months add to the aesthetic. Reddit

It's best to ask for permission before photographing monks. Always be discreet and respectful; avoid intrusive photography. Reddit

The golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) provides beautiful, soft light. Evenings can offer a mystical ambiance, especially with the temple lights. Reddit

Drone usage is generally not permitted at religious sites like Wat Ounalom to maintain peace and respect. Always check local regulations. Reddit

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide shots of the grounds and details of the architecture. A prime lens can be great for low-light interiors if permitted. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Wat Ounalom offers a peaceful environment that can be a good change of pace for families. The free entry is a definite plus for budget-conscious families. Kids can enjoy observing the unique architecture and the resident cats roaming the grounds. It's a good opportunity to teach children about different cultures and religions in a calm setting. Reddit

Ensure children are dressed appropriately (shoulders and knees covered) to enter the main buildings. Remind them to be quiet and respectful of the monks and the sacred space. The open grounds allow for some freedom to move around, making it less restrictive than some other indoor attractions. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

Wat Ounalom is a fantastic destination for budget travelers as admission is completely free. You can spend a good amount of time exploring the grounds and admiring the architecture without spending a dime. Reddit

Combine your visit with other free or low-cost attractions nearby, like walking along the riverside or visiting the National Museum (which has an entry fee, but is close by). It's a perfect stop for a quiet moment without impacting your travel budget. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding Wat Ounalom's Significance

Wat Ounalom, established in 1443, holds significant historical and religious importance in Phnom Penh. It is considered the headquarters of Cambodian Buddhism and is home to the Supreme Patriarch of Cambodian Buddhism. The temple compound is not just a place of worship but also a living monastery where monks reside and study. Its architecture reflects traditional Khmer Buddhist styles, with intricate carvings and vibrant decorations that tell stories of faith and history. Reddit

Visitors often remark on the peaceful and serene atmosphere that pervades the grounds, offering a welcome respite from the city's hustle. The main sanctuary, though not as grand as some other temples, is noted for its beauty and the opportunity to respectfully enter and observe. The presence of numerous stupas scattered throughout the complex adds to its visual appeal and spiritual significance. Reddit

Beyond its religious role, Wat Ounalom is a cultural landmark. It provides a glimpse into the daily lives of monks and the enduring traditions of Cambodian Buddhism. Its proximity to other major attractions like the National Museum makes it an easily accessible yet profound stop for anyone interested in the spiritual and cultural heart of Phnom Penh. Reddit

Navigating the Monastery Grounds

When you arrive at Wat Ounalom, you'll find a sprawling complex with several buildings and stupas. The main sanctuary is the most prominent structure, often adorned with gold leaf and intricate artwork. Remember that this is an active monastery, so maintaining a quiet and respectful demeanor is crucial. Reddit

As you explore, you'll notice various stupas, each with its own architectural style and significance. Take your time to wander through the courtyards and observe the monks going about their daily routines. You might even encounter some of the resident cats that add a charming touch to the serene environment. Reddit

Be aware of your surroundings and any specific instructions from temple staff. While entry is free, donations are always appreciated and help maintain the site. The grounds are generally well-maintained, offering a pleasant walking experience, especially during the cooler parts of the day. Reddit

You may also like