Travel tips · Phnom Penh · Cambodia
Phnom Penh travel tips: what to know before you go
The etiquette, money and practical details that make the first day easier.
Updated By the AMZBooking editorial team
Photo: Looppty, CC BY-SA 4.0
Quick answer
Phnom Penh is a young, fast-changing capital in a country that rebuilt itself after the Khmer Rouge period, when the city was emptied in 1975. Theravada Buddhism, the monarchy and family life remain central, and visitors are expected to dress modestly at royal and religious sites and to approach memorials such as Tuol Sleng with respect.
Key facts
- Language
- Khmer
- Currency
- KHR
- Plugs
- Type A, C and G sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
- Tap water
- Do not drink tap water; bottled and filtered water is widely available, and…
- Emergency
- 117 police, 118 fire, 119 ambulance
Things to know
- Greet with a sompeah — palms together, a small bow — especially with older people and monks.
- Cover shoulders and knees at the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and pagodas.
- Be quiet and respectful at Tuol Sleng and Choeung Ek; avoid selfies and loud conversation.
- Do not touch people's heads, and avoid pointing your feet at others or at Buddha images.
- Women should not touch monks or hand items directly to them.
- Losing your temper in public causes embarrassment; stay calm when negotiating.
- Use PassApp or Grab for city trips; fares are usually lower than negotiated street prices.
Tipping
Tipping is not expected in local eateries but is appreciated in restaurants catering to visitors, where a dollar or two or rounding up is normal. Tuk-tuk drivers on a long hire and guides usually receive a few dollars.
Language
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Chom reap suor | Hello (polite) |
| Aw kun charan | Thank you very much |
| Tlai ponmaan? | How much? |
| Som kit luy | The bill, please |
| Ot dak mtes | No chilli |
What to wear
Lightweight clothes that cover shoulders and knees are needed for the palace and temples; a scarf is useful. Sandals that slip off easily help at pagodas.
Practical details
- Plugs and voltage
- Type A, C and G sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
- Drinking water
- Do not drink tap water; bottled and filtered water is widely available, and ice is generally factory-made.
- Emergency number
- 117 police, 118 fire, 119 ambulance
- Phone and internet
- Prepaid SIMs and eSIMs from Cellcard, Smart and Metfone are inexpensive with generous data; Wi-Fi is standard in cafés and hotels.
- Time zone
- Asia/Phnom Penh
Snatching of bags and phones by passengers on motorbikes is the most common problem, so keep valuables on the side away from traffic, including in tuk-tuks. Traffic is chaotic; cross slowly and steadily. Heat and dehydration are the other main risks.
Entry requirements
Visa and passport rules depend on your nationality and change often. Check Cambodia's official government guidance and your own government's travel advice before booking.
Plan the trip
Questions travellers ask
+Do you tip in Phnom Penh?
Tipping is not expected in local eateries but is appreciated in restaurants catering to visitors, where a dollar or two or rounding up is normal. Tuk-tuk drivers on a long hire and guides usually receive a few dollars.
+Can you drink the tap water in Phnom Penh?
Do not drink tap water; bottled and filtered water is widely available, and ice is generally factory-made.
+What plugs are used in Phnom Penh?
Type A, C and G sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
+What language is spoken in Phnom Penh?
Khmer.