Wat Saravan - a close up of a statue of a person
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Wat Saravan

4.2
·129 reviews·Phnom Penh, Cambodia

A serene Buddhist temple with ornate architecture, offering a peaceful escape and unique photo ops against a city skyline.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
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Wat Saravan - a close up of a statue of a person

Wat Saravan

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene Buddhist temple with ornate architecture, offering a peaceful escape and unique photo ops against a city skyline.

4.2
(129 reviews)

"Beautiful temple and pagoda complex, a good place to get photos with skyscrapers looming in the background."

Vertical photo
TIP

Dress Code Reminder

Cover shoulders and knees to show respect. :pray:

Photography Opportunities

Great for colorful shots, especially with city skyscrapers in the background. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ornate Architecture

Ornate Architecture

Marvel at the intricate details and vibrant colors of this Buddhist temple's structures and pagodas.

Temple Dog Encounter

Temple Dog Encounter

Keep an eye out for a famously unfriendly, yet harmless, temple dog – a quirky local character.

Skyscraper Backdrop

Skyscraper Backdrop

Capture unique photos of traditional temple scenes juxtaposed with modern city skyscrapers.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

Visit during cooler morning or late afternoon hours to avoid the midday heat. Check for local festivals, as these can offer unique cultural experiences with fewer crowds than major holidays.

Respectful Exploration

Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as this is an active place of worship. Be mindful of the monks and their daily routines. Donations are appreciated to support the temple's upkeep.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Festival times
Why
Cultural performances
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Dress Code Reminder

Cover shoulders and knees to show respect. :pray:

Photography Opportunities

Great for colorful shots, especially with city skyscrapers in the background. :camerawithflash:

Quiet Contemplation

More peaceful than other temples, ideal for a meditative visit. :dove:

Support the Monks

Donations are welcome and help support the temple and its residents. :moneywithwings:

Tips

from all over the internet

Dress Code Reminder

Cover shoulders and knees to show respect. :pray:

Photography Opportunities

Great for colorful shots, especially with city skyscrapers in the background. :camerawithflash:

Quiet Contemplation

More peaceful than other temples, ideal for a meditative visit. :dove:

Support the Monks

Donations are welcome and help support the temple and its residents. :moneywithwings:

Watch for the Dog

Be aware of a particular temple dog; it's harmless but can be unfriendly. :dog:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(129 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Wat Saravan for its beautiful, ornate architecture and peaceful atmosphere, offering a more meditative experience than other temples. Its unique juxtaposition with modern skyscrapers provides excellent photo opportunities. Some note a famously unfriendly temple dog and appreciate the chance to donate to support the monks.

"It is located close to the Royal Palace and within walking distance to many other attractions in the city centre. It is a beautiful place to wander and watch the daily life of the local people."

nazif JT

"Buddhist temple with very ornate structures and architecture. Photographers will enjoy every angle exploring the wonderful colours and shapes. Highly recommended for your trip to the Cambodian capital."

Paul Felstein

"A Buddhist temple of nice architecture which is under renovation now."

Mahbubul Islam

What People Like

Beautiful ornate architecture
Peaceful, meditative atmosphere
Unique photo opportunities

What People Dislike

Unfriendly temple dog

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Wat Saravan is conveniently located close to the Royal Palace and is within walking distance of many city center attractions. You can easily walk there in about 10-15 minutes. Taxis and tuk-tuks are also readily available if you prefer not to walk.

While there isn't direct public bus access to the temple itself, it's centrally located. You can take a local bus to the Riverside area and then enjoy a short walk to Wat Saravan. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also common options.

From Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH), the most convenient way to reach Wat Saravan is by taxi or ride-sharing service, which will take approximately 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. Tuk-tuks are also an option but may be less comfortable for the longer journey.

Yes, cycling is a viable option if you are comfortable navigating city traffic. The temple is in the city center, making it accessible by bike. Remember to secure your bicycle properly.

Absolutely! Wat Saravan is very close to the Royal Palace and the Riverside area, making it easy to combine with visits to other key sites in Phnom Penh.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Wat Saravan is typically free. It's an active place of worship, and visitors are welcome to explore the grounds. However, donations are highly encouraged to support the temple's maintenance and the monks.

Wat Saravan is generally open daily from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the architecture and atmosphere. Specific hours can vary slightly.

There is no mandatory entrance fee for Wat Saravan. Visitors are welcome to enter and explore freely. Consider making a donation if you wish to contribute to the temple's upkeep.

Yes, you can visit during religious ceremonies, but it's important to be respectful and quiet. Observe from a distance if necessary and avoid disrupting the proceedings. Festival times can offer unique cultural insights.

The main restriction is to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Be respectful of the monks and their activities. Avoid loud noises or disruptive behavior. Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of people praying.

📸 📸 Photography

The ornate architecture, vibrant colors, and intricate details of the temple buildings offer numerous photo opportunities. The juxtaposition of traditional temple structures against modern skyscrapers in the background also creates unique shots. Look for interesting angles and play with light.

Photography is generally permitted on the temple grounds. However, always be respectful. If you see people praying or meditating, refrain from taking their photos. It's wise to ask for permission if you intend to photograph individuals closely.

Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography. The 'golden hour' before sunset can cast a beautiful warm glow on the temple structures. Midday sun can be harsh, creating strong shadows.

Focus on the detailed carvings, colorful murals, statues, and the overall architectural grandeur. The monks themselves, if photographed respectfully, can also be compelling subjects. Don't forget the unique contrast with the city skyline.

For casual tourist photography, no permit is usually required. However, if you plan a professional photoshoot with equipment, it's advisable to inquire with temple authorities beforehand to avoid any issues.

🎫 🧘 Onsite Experience

Wat Saravan is described as a beautiful and ornate Buddhist temple, offering a more peaceful and meditative experience compared to busier temples like Wat Ounalom or Wat Phnom. It's a place to observe daily life and appreciate the architecture.

While direct interaction might be limited, you can observe their daily routines. Some visitors have mentioned receiving blessings or participating in water rituals. Always approach monks with respect and politeness.

During festivals or special occasions, music and dance performances may take place at Wat Saravan. These events can offer a vibrant cultural experience without the overwhelming crowds found at larger festivals. Reddit

Be aware of a particular temple dog that is noted for being unfriendly, though harmless. It's best to give it a wide berth and avoid provoking it. Just observe from a safe distance. Reddit

Yes, some visitors have mentioned receiving water baths and blessings at the temple. It's a traditional practice, and you may be able to participate if the opportunity arises. Donations are often appreciated for such services.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Wat Saravan offers a relatively calm environment for families looking to introduce children to Cambodian culture and religious sites. The ornate architecture and vibrant colors can be visually engaging for younger visitors. It's a good place for a short, manageable visit without the overwhelming scale of some other attractions. Remember to ensure children are dressed modestly, covering shoulders and knees, to respect the temple's religious nature. Reddit

While there aren't specific child-focused activities, the opportunity to observe daily life and the peaceful atmosphere can be educational. Keep an eye out for the famous temple dog, but ensure children maintain a safe distance. The temple's location near the Royal Palace also makes it an easy addition to a family's itinerary without requiring extensive travel.

📸 Photographers

Wat Saravan is a photographer's delight, offering a unique blend of traditional Buddhist architecture and modern urban landscapes. The highly ornate structures and vibrant colors provide endless opportunities for capturing stunning images. Look for intricate carvings, detailed murals, and the majestic pagodas. The contrast between the ancient temple and the looming skyscrapers in the background creates a distinctive visual narrative that's perfect for unique shots. Reddit

For the best lighting, aim for visits during the early morning or late afternoon golden hours. This will help you capture the temple's beauty with soft, warm light and minimize harsh shadows. Be mindful of the monks and worshippers; always be respectful and ask for permission before photographing individuals. The temple's relatively quieter atmosphere compared to other major sites also allows for more focused and unhurried photography sessions.

🧘 Solo Travelers Seeking Peace

For solo travelers seeking a moment of tranquility, Wat Saravan is an excellent choice. It's noted for being quieter and more meditative than other prominent temples in Phnom Penh, offering a peaceful escape from the city bustle. Reddit You can wander the grounds at your own pace, appreciating the intricate architecture and observing the daily routines of the monks without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Reddit

Consider visiting during off-peak hours, like early mornings, to maximize the sense of calm. The opportunity to witness traditional Buddhist practices and perhaps even receive a blessing can add a profound dimension to your solo journey. Remember to dress respectfully and be mindful of the temple's sacred nature.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Marvels and Cultural Significance

Wat Saravan is a stunning example of Buddhist temple architecture, characterized by its ornate structures and vibrant colors. Visitors often marvel at the intricate details, from the carvings on the walls to the elaborate designs of the pagodas. The temple serves as an active place of worship and a center for daily Buddhist life, offering a glimpse into the spiritual practices of the local community. Its proximity to modern skyscrapers creates a unique visual contrast, blending the ancient with the contemporary. Reddit

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Wat Saravan holds cultural significance as a place for prayer, meditation, and receiving blessings. The temple's quieter atmosphere, compared to more prominent sites, makes it a favored spot for those seeking a more meditative experience. During festival times, the temple can come alive with music and dance performances, providing a rich cultural immersion without the overwhelming throngs of larger events. Reddit

For photographers, the temple offers a wealth of opportunities. The play of light on the detailed facades, the rich color palette, and the juxtaposition with the urban landscape provide endless creative possibilities. It's a place where one can truly appreciate the artistry and devotion embedded in Cambodian Buddhist traditions.

Navigating Your Visit: Practical Tips

When planning your visit to Wat Saravan, remember that modest dress is essential. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered as a sign of respect for this active religious site. This is a common courtesy expected at all temples in Cambodia. Reddit

While exploring, be aware of your surroundings. One notable mention from visitors is a particularly unfriendly, though harmless, temple dog. It's advisable to keep a respectful distance from this canine resident. Reddit The temple also welcomes donations, which help support the monks and the upkeep of the beautiful grounds. Consider contributing if you feel moved to do so. Reddit

For those interested in photography, the temple offers fantastic opportunities, especially during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon. The unique blend of traditional temple architecture against the backdrop of modern city skyscrapers provides a distinctive photographic subject. Capture the vibrant colors and intricate details that make Wat Saravan so visually appealing.

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