Phnom Penh City Tours, S21, Killing Field and the Royal Palace

Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital of Cambodia, offers a captivating journey through the nation’s rich history and culture. From the stunning Khmer architecture of the Royal Palace to the poignant reminders of the country’s tragic past at the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields, this city tour provides a profound exploration of Cambodia’s heritage. Visitors can explore the nation’s resilience and the importance of remembering its history, leaving them with a deeper understanding of this remarkable destination. As the tour unfolds, travelers are sure to be captivated by the multifaceted tale that Phnom Penh has to tell.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive Phnom Penh city tour covering the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National Museum, Toul Sleng Genocide Museum, and the Killing Fields.
• Explore Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage and learn about its tragic history through guided visits to these significant landmarks.
• Discover the architectural splendor and historical significance of the Royal Palace, home to the King of Cambodia.
• Visit the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields to gain a somber understanding of the Khmer Rouge atrocities.
• Convenient transportation and flexible tour format allow for a personalized and insightful experience in Phnom Penh.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Phnom Penh City Tours offer visitors a comprehensive exploration of the Cambodian capital’s significant historical and cultural sites.

This full-day tour takes travelers to the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, the National Museum, the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum, and the Killing Fields.

These key locations showcase Cambodia’s rich heritage, from the grandeur of the royal residences to the sobering reminders of the country’s tragic past.

The tour is ideal for first-time visitors to Cambodia, providing an insightful overview of the nation’s extraordinary history and culture.

With an English or Japanese-speaking guide, travelers can explore the significance of each site and gain a deeper understanding of Phnom Penh’s enduring legacy.

Exploring the Royal Palace

After visiting the National Museum, the tour proceeds to the majestic Royal Palace, the official residence of the King of Cambodia.

Visitors are captivated by the stunning Khmer architecture, the glittering Golden Pagoda, and the lush gardens.

The tour explores the key areas of the palace, including:

• The Throne Hall, where the monarch receives guests and holds official ceremonies
• The Moonlight Pavilion, a serene spot for quiet reflection
• The Stupas, housing the remains of former kings and queens
• The Silver Pagoda, with its floor covered in over 5,000 silver tiles
• The Leopard Skin-patterned Pavilion, an elegant example of traditional Khmer design

Visiting the Silver Pagoda

Visitors to the Royal Palace are immediately drawn to the dazzling Silver Pagoda, whose floors are covered in over 5,000 solid silver tiles. This awe-inspiring structure, also known as Wat Preah Keo Morokat, houses a collection of priceless Khmer artifacts, including a 17th-century Baccarat crystal Buddha and a life-size gold Buddha adorned with 9,584 diamonds. The pagoda’s walls are lined with stunning murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana epic. Visitors can explore the pagoda’s intricate details and learn about its rich history and cultural significance.

Feature	Description
Construction	Completed in 1962
Tiles	Over 5,000 solid silver tiles
Artifacts	17th-century Baccarat crystal Buddha, life-size gold Buddha
Murals	Depict scenes from the Ramayana epic
Significance	Represents the cultural and historical importance of Cambodia

Discovering the National Museum

One of the highlights of the Phnom Penh city tour is the National Museum, a stunning Khmer-style building that houses an extensive collection of Cambodian art and artifacts.

Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries, which showcase a wide range of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures, ceramics, bronzes, and other treasures dating back to the ancient Khmer civilization.

The museum’s collection provides a glimpse into Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage and is an essential stop on any Phnom Penh tour.

Key highlights include:

• Exquisite Khmer sculptures and statues
• Impressive collection of Angkor-era artifacts
• Traditional Cambodian ceramics and pottery
• Intricate bronzes and metalwork
• Fascinating historical exhibits and displays

Toul Sleng Genocide Museum

The Toul Sleng Genocide Museum, formerly a high school, stands as a poignant reminder of the atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge regime.

Once a tranquil educational institution, this chilling site was transformed into a notorious prison and interrogation center known as S-21.

Visitors can explore the grim cells, torture chambers, and eerie hallways that bear witness to the immense suffering endured by the thousands of victims who perished here.

The museum’s harrowing exhibits, including graphic photographs and personal artifacts, offer a sobering glimpse into one of the darkest chapters in Cambodia’s history, serving as a powerful call to remember and prevent such horrors from ever occurring again.

The Killing Fields Memorial

Beyond the confines of Phnom Penh lies the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, a haunting memorial that stands as a somber reminder of the atrocities committed by the Khmer Rouge regime.

This site, where thousands of Cambodians were brutally executed, has been transformed into a place of reflection and remembrance. Visitors can explore the mass graves, view the skull stupa, and learn about the harrowing history through informative displays.

The Killing Fields memorial serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of the Cambodian people and a solemn reminder of the importance of human rights and justice.

• A sacred ground that bears witness to unimaginable suffering
• A place of remembrance and healing for survivors and their families
• A testament to the resilience and strength of the Cambodian people
• A sobering reminder of the horrors of genocide and the fragility of human life
• A call to action for individuals and nations to prevent such tragedies from occurring again

Transportation and Logistics

Getting to the sites on the Phnom Penh City Tours is a breeze, as the package includes convenient pick-up and drop-off from your hotel.

The tour operates using an air-conditioned van or bus, ensuring a comfortable journey. Departing at 8:30 am, the tour covers significant historical and cultural landmarks in the city.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so those with mobility concerns should take note.

The private tour format allows for a personalized experience, catering to your schedule and interests.

While the price starts at $110, the exact cost may vary depending on the group size, providing a flexible option for travelers.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The Phnom Penh City Tours package starts at $110.00 per person, with the exact price varying depending on the group size. This tour offers a lowest price guarantee, ensuring that customers receive the best value for their money.

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, which allows them to cancel up to 24 hours before the experience begins without incurring any fees.

The tour package includes:

• English or Japanese-speaking guide
• Mineral water
• Exclusion of personal expenses, tips, and entrance fees

It’s important to note that the admission fees for the various sites visited during the tour aren’t included in the package price.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The tour description does not specify the average group size. It indicates the tour is a private tour/activity, suggesting it can accommodate groups of varying sizes based on the needs and preferences of the participants.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Water and Snacks?

While the tour includes mineral water, guests may want to bring their own additional snacks and drinks for personal preference or dietary needs. The tour does not provide any other food or refreshments.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Based on the tour overview, it appears there is some flexibility to customize the itinerary. The tour is described as a "private tour/activity", suggesting travelers can likely work with the tour operator to adjust the sights visited to match their interests.

Can I Visit the Sites on My Own Instead of a Guided Tour?

Yes, you can visit the key sites in Phnom Penh on your own. While a guided tour provides context and efficiency, exploring the city independently allows more flexibility and the freedom to spend time at each site as desired.

Do the Guides Provide Information About Local Cuisine and Culture?

The tour guides typically provide information about local cuisine and cultural traditions as part of the Phnom Penh city tour. They’ll share insights into Cambodian history, heritage, and daily life to enhance the visitors’ understanding and appreciation of the destination.

Sum Up

Phnom Penh City Tours offer a comprehensive exploration of Cambodia’s rich history and culture. Visitors can marvel at the stunning Khmer architecture of the Royal Palace, pay respects at the solemn Toul Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields, and discover the nation’s resilience and the importance of remembering its past. This tour provides a deep understanding of Cambodia’s heritage and a profound experience for all who embark on it.