No visit to the Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh would be complete without a day spent in the famous National Museum. Easily accessible (it is located right next to The Royal Palace) the building itself is worth a look if nothing else.

The museum was built in the early 1900s and is comprised of distinctive red coloured terracotta. It is surrounded by beautifully green, lush and well-kept gardens that have many sculptures to admire as well as ponds and coconut trees to rest under. Indeed, you will find many local people retreat to the gardens at the museum with a good book to get away from the throng of the city outside.

The exotic looking building itself is packed full with interesting and historically important artefacts. Many of the artefacts represent the Khmer culture and include Angkorian objects such as statues, sculptures, lingas and art.

There is also a vast collection of pre-Angkorian items that include pottery, bronze, ceramics, coins and silver artefacts, there is really something for everyone; no matter what era of early Cambodian history you are interested in, you will find many items to view at the museum.

The Leper King

One of the most popular exhibits at the National Museum is the statue of the Leper King. This is the original statue that was removed from the Angkor Wat and is now the pride of the National Museum.

The reason that the Leper King statue is so important is that the figure depicted is sitting with his right knee raised and is completely naked – something that is unusual in Khmer art. It is believed that the Leper King statue has had Javanese influence during its creation.

The Buddha

The museum works tirelessly to collect and display many Buddhist items; there are several great examples of post-Angkorian Buddha on display at the museum. In fact, the museum is intent on preserving as many Buddhist artefacts as it can to help preserve the culture and attend to the religious needs of the community.

Part of the museum also has a display that includes a cannon and you will find a vast array of traditional farm implements on show. There is even a great example of a weaving loom to be admired.

Hours of Operation

The National Museum is open daily from 8am until 11.30am, then 2.00pm until 5pm. Last admission to the museum is at 4.40pm (but you will need a good few hours to wander around all that the museum has to offer!).

Entry Fees

The entry fee is a very reasonable US$3 and children or school groups are admitted for free. If desired, you can request an individual or group guided tour at a cost of US$3. The tour usually lasts about one hour.

There is no photography permitted inside the museum itself but it is possible to take photographs of the exterior of the ornate museum building and of the stunning gardens.

The museum also has its own shop where you can purchase skilfully crafted replicas of many of the items on display. There are also many books on Cambodian art and culture as well as postcards and popular souvenirs.