POCKET GU!DE
PHNOM PENH ISSUE 39 June - Sep 2016
Since 2004
OUT & ABOUT Where to Go & What to Do!
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EXPLORiNG PHNOM PENH
Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda
Address: Sothearos Blvd | Opening hours: 7:30-11am & 2-5pm | Price: Admission incl camera 25,000r, guide per hr US$10 The Royal Palace is the jewel of the crown of Phnom Penh’s numerous landmarks: an enormous complex with classic Khmer roofs and ornate gilding that dominates the small skyline of the city. Built in Khmer classical architecture with a slight French touch, it bears a generous resemblance to its counterpart in Bangkok. Built during the mid-19th century - after King Norodom relocated the royal capital from Oudong to Phnom Penh - the palace has always been a major tourist draw. Within the Royal Palace compound you’ll find the extravagant Silver Pagoda, the floor of which is covered with 5,000 silver tiles. Rivalling the floor, a staircase made of Italian marble leads the way to the innards of the pagoda. Inside the temple, you’ll admire the star of the show: the Emerald Buddha, a small, glimmering statue - said to be made of Baccarat crystal - that sits atop an impressive gilt pedestal. Adding to the mix in spectacular fashion, a near-life-sized, solid-gold Maitreya Buddha - encrusted with thousands of diamonds and dressed in royal regalia - sits in front the pedestal. To enter, you need to wear shorts that reach to the knee, and T-shirts or blouses that reach to the elbow. Note also that the palace gets very busy on Sundays, when Khmers come to pay their respects - although being in the midst of the thronging locals can be a fun way to experience the place.
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