National Museum of Cambodia — Attraction in Khan Daun Penh

A Must-Visit for History Enthusiasts and Cultural Guardians

If you're visiting Phnom Penh, the National Museum of Cambodia is an essential stop—especially for those passionate about ancient civilizations and Hindu heritage. This museum is not just a building filled with artifacts; it is a living archive of Cambodia’s soul.

Walking through its galleries, you’ll witness the grandeur of pre-Angkorian and Angkorian Hindu art, including intricate sculptures of Vishnu, Shiva, and other deities that once adorned the temples of a flourishing Khmer empire. These pieces offer a rare glimpse into the spiritual and artistic brilliance that shaped Southeast Asia centuries ago.

What makes the museum even more compelling today is its role in the Khmer repatriated artifacts program—a national effort to recover cultural treasures looted during the Khmer Rouge era and smuggled abroad. Over the past 28 years, Cambodia has successfully repatriated more than 1,000 artifacts, many of which are now proudly displayed here. Recent returns include two “Guardian God” heads from the late Angkor period and 14 sculptures from the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

These artifacts are more than stone and bronze—they are the souls of ancestors, as described by Cambodia’s Ministry of Culture. Their return has sparked renewed interest in the museum and a deeper appreciation for the resilience of Cambodian identity.

Whether you're a history buff, a student of religion, or simply a curious traveler, the National Museum of Cambodia offers a powerful, emotional, and educational experience. It’s a place where the past is not forgotten but reclaimed—and where every statue tells a story of...

Phnom Penh doesn't offer an enormous variety of activities or tourist attractions, but for those interested in history and culture, a visit to the National Museum is essential. The museum's wings are adorned with ancient artifacts, sculptures, and statues. I've been somewhat let down in recent years when attempting to view the ancient Khmer gold regalia (crowns, bracelets, armbands etc), as it always seems to be undergoing neverending restoration or is just locked up in the museum safes. Additionally, I didn't have the opportunity to see any items that had been repatriated to Cambodia. I'm uncertain about the current situation, as the last time I saw the ancient regalia was around five years ago (and I visit pretty much every year). The ongoing "restoration" process seems ridiculous. The entry fee is $10USD, but Cambodians with a National card can enter for 500 riels. If you don't have a National card, regardless of whether you were born in Cambodia or speak the languange or not, the fee is $10. Unfortunately, the audio headsets are no longer available since covid.

I have given the National Museum 4/5 (however, once the regalia and other artifacts are put back on display I’ll change this to a 5).

I actually prefer the National Museum in Phnom Penh over the Angkor National Museum in Siem Reap as I feel the collection is better…. but definitely worthwhile checking both out if you get an opportunity.

Final note. The museum only accepts cash and ABA pay which was a shame as I wanted several books, however didn’t want to go to the ATM to withdraw (even the onsite museum cafe...

The National Museum of Cambodia is home to the world’s finest collection of Khmer sculpture: a millennium’s worth and more of masterful Khmer design. It's housed in a graceful terracotta structure of traditional design (built from 1917 to 1920) with an inviting courtyard garden, just north of the Royal Palace.

Most visitors start left and continue in a clockwise, chronological direction.

The National Museum of Cambodia is located on Street 13 in central Phnom Penh, next to the Royal Palace. The visitor’s entrance to the compound and the admissions ticket booth are at the corner of Streets 13 and 178.

Opening hours are from 8.00am until 5.00pm daily. Last admission tickets are sold at 4.30pm.

Admission costs are $5 for foreigner ages from 10 to 17 years old, $10 for foreigner ages from 18 years old up , 500 riels for Cambodians. Children and school groups are free.

Guided tours can be arranged for individuals or groups at the museum entrance. Tours are available in Khmer, English, French and Japanese.

Photography is not permitted within the museum galleries, but visitors are welcome to film or photograph the museum exterior and courtyard. Those wishing to obtain images of the museum or collection for study or Publications should email the museum to request an application form or contact a staff member.

Smoking is not permitted inside the museum.

Cloakroom facilities are available at the main entrance. Please leave large items and bags here.

Bathrooms are located downstairs near the main entrance. See the map overleaf for...