Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s dynamic capital city, sits at the confluence of three major rivers—the Mekong, the Tonle Sap, and the Bassac. Once admired as the “Gem of Indochina,” Phnom Penh continues to charm visitors with its tree-lined boulevards, French colonial architecture, vibrant local culture, and its mix of ancient temples and modern developments. As the political, economic, and cultural center of Cambodia, the city offers a unique blend of historical significance and contemporary energy.
Home to significant landmarks such as the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National Museum, and Wat Phnom, the city is also a gateway to the country’s broader attractions including the temples of Angkor, the coastal beaches, and the rich biodiversity of the northeastern provinces. A walk through Phnom Penh reveals a city where traditional Buddhist wats sit alongside lively markets, riverside cafés, and emerging skyscrapers.
The name “Phnom Penh” is derived from Wat Phnom Daun Penh, a sacred pagoda built in 1373 by a local woman named Daun Penh, who discovered sacred Buddha statues and placed them on a hill for worship. The city is also historically known as Chaktomuk—meaning “City of Four Faces”—referring to the cross-shaped confluence of the rivers.
Geography
Phnom Penh covers an area of approximately 375 square kilometres and is fully surrounded by Kandal Province, making it both a standalone municipality and the country’s main urban hub. The region consists largely of wet plains and agricultural land, though the urban area is increasingly developed. Three major rivers converge in the capital, forming a natural “X” that enhances the city’s ecological richness and transportation routes.
The presence of these rivers makes Phnom Penh a vital water-based logistics and trade center. The municipality includes 11,401 hectares of general area, with approximately 1,476 hectares under irrigation. Agricultural areas are mainly located on the outskirts, where rice fields and other plantations still play a key role.
Population
As of 2007, Phnom Penh’s population was approximately 2,009,264, representing 14% of Cambodia’s total population. The population density is one of the highest in the country at 5,343.8 people per square kilometre.
Ethnic diversity is notable, with 60% Khmer, 15% Chinese, 20% Vietnamese, and 5% other ethnic groups. The city’s population continues to grow rapidly, with an estimated annual growth rate of 3.9%, driven by migration from rural provinces and a steady influx of international visitors and investors.
Climate
Phnom Penh experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by warm temperatures and seasonal rainfall. The city is suitable for year-round visits, with predictable weather cycles supporting both tourism and agriculture.
Seasonal Climate Overview:
- Cool Season (Nov–Mar): 22°C to 28°C
- Hot Season (Mar–May): 28°C to 38°C
- Rainy Season (May–Oct): 24°C to 32°C, humidity up to 90%
The heaviest rainfall typically occurs between September and October, while January and February are the driest months. These climatic conditions support diverse plant life and enhance the appeal of Phnom Penh’s many gardens and riverside parks.
Economy
Phnom Penh has experienced strong economic growth in recent years, with a noticeable boom in construction, tourism, and commercial activity. The city is at the forefront of Cambodia’s garment industry, real estate development, and service sector expansion.
Key economic contributors include:
- Garment and textile manufacturing, primarily in nearby Kandal Province, which employs around 500,000 people and contributes substantially to export revenue.
- Real estate and construction, with large-scale projects such as Camko City attracting investment from South Korea, Indonesia, and China.
- Hospitality and tourism, supported by a growing network of hotels, restaurants, cafés, and international airlines connecting Phnom Penh to major cities in the region.
The rise in direct foreign investment has led to the development of new business zones and residential areas. Phnom Penh has also seen increasing activity in agriculture exports, including palm oil, rice, pepper, and peanuts, often produced in the surrounding provinces and traded through the capital’s markets.
The city’s connectivity—via air, road, and waterways—further strengthens its role as Cambodia’s economic hub. Budget airlines and luxury accommodations support both leisure tourism and business travel, attracting visitors and investors from across Southeast Asia and beyond.
