Silver Pagoda, Phnom Penh

Silver Pagoda Phnom Penh: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Site Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled within the Royal Palace complex in the heart of Phnom Penh, the Silver Pagoda—officially known as Wat Preah Keo Morakot or Wat Ubaosoth Ratanaram—stands as a crowning symbol of Cambodia’s royal heritage, Buddhist devotion, and artistic mastery. Famous for its floor of over 5,000 solid silver tiles and home to national treasures like the Baccarat crystal Emerald Buddha and the diamond-encrusted gold Maitreya Buddha, the Silver Pagoda is both a sacred sanctuary and a showcase of Khmer craftsmanship. This guide provides all you need to know about visiting hours, ticketing, architectural highlights, historical background, visitor etiquette, and tips for an enriching experience at one of Phnom Penh’s most iconic landmarks. (TravelSetu; Lonely Planet; Tourism Cambodia)

Welcome to the Silver Pagoda: Phnom Penh’s Must-See Historical Site
Visiting the Silver Pagoda: Hours, Tickets & Practical Information
Origins and Royal Patronage
Architectural Evolution and Reconstruction
Sacred Relics and National Treasures
The Pagoda During Cambodia’s Tumultuous 20th Century
Royal Mausoleums and Memorials
The Silver Pagoda Today: Culture and Tourism
Architectural and Artistic Highlights
Visitor Experience and Etiquette
Accessibility, Facilities, and Travel Tips
Best Times to Visit
Nearby Attractions and Itinerary Planning
Photographic Spots and Visual Media
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Plan Your Visit Today!
References

Side view of the Silver Pagoda with ornate roofs and chofas at the Royal Palace, Cambodia

Welcome to the Silver Pagoda: Phnom Penh’s Must-See Historical Site

Within the Royal Palace complex, the Silver Pagoda stands as a vibrant testament to Cambodia’s royal and religious legacy. Its dazzling architecture, priceless relics, and tranquil gardens create a space where history, spirituality, and artistry converge. This guide equips you with essential information for a respectful and rewarding visit.

Visiting the Silver Pagoda: Hours, Tickets & Practical Information

Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM). Some midday closures may occur for royal ceremonies or maintenance; check locally for updates.
Ticket Price: Admission is typically included with the Royal Palace ticket, costing around $10 USD for foreigners. Tickets are available at the main palace entrance; bring cash, as card payments may not be accepted.
Dress Code: Respectful attire is required—shoulders and knees must be covered. Hats should be removed inside temple buildings.
Photography: Allowed in the outer courtyards and gardens, but strictly prohibited inside the pagoda to protect sacred artifacts.
Accessibility: The site offers partial wheelchair accessibility, especially in main courtyards, but some areas have steps or uneven surfaces. Contact tour providers if you have mobility concerns.
Guided Tours: Local guides are available at the entrance for an additional fee and are highly recommended for historical context.

Origins and Royal Patronage

The Silver Pagoda was commissioned in 1892 by King Norodom as a royal temple rather than a monastery, emphasizing its significance for royal and state ceremonies. It has always served as a sanctuary for Cambodia’s most precious Buddhist treasures, underscoring the close connection between the monarchy and Theravada Buddhism. (Asia King Travel; Tourism Cambodia)

Architectural Evolution and Reconstruction

The original wooden and brick structure was replaced in 1962 by a reinforced concrete building with Italian marble floors, reflecting a blend of Khmer, French, and Italian design influences. The pagoda’s distinctive silver-tiled floor comprises 5,329 tiles weighing over six tons, a unique feature in Southeast Asia. Only a portion is left uncovered for visitors to admire. (Explore Your Travel; Wikipedia)

Sacred Relics and National Treasures

Central to the pagoda are the 17th-century Baccarat crystal Emerald Buddha and a life-sized gold Maitreya Buddha adorned with 9,584 diamonds, the largest weighing 25 carats. The pagoda also holds more than 1,650 treasures, including royal regalia, Buddhist manuscripts, and Angkorian bronzes, reflecting Cambodia’s spiritual and artistic legacy. (TravelSetu; Tourism Cambodia)

The Pagoda During Cambodia’s Tumultuous 20th Century

Despite the devastation wrought by the Khmer Rouge, the Silver Pagoda survived largely intact, thanks to its protected status within the Royal Palace. In the years since, it has been a focal point of Cambodia’s cultural revival and ongoing conservation efforts. (TravelSetu)

Royal Mausoleums and Memorials

Surrounding the pagoda are white marble or stone stupas containing the remains of Cambodian kings, including King Ang Duong and King Norodom. A statue of King Norodom on horseback, a gift from Napoleon III, further underscores the site’s royal and historical significance. (The World Travel Guy; Tourism Cambodia)

The Silver Pagoda Today: Culture and Tourism

Today, the Silver Pagoda is a living center for Buddhist festivals and royal ceremonies, particularly during events such as Pchum Ben and Khmer New Year. As a top Phnom Penh attraction, it draws visitors worldwide, with an increasing focus on sustainable tourism and conservation. (Asia King Travel; TravelTriangle)

Architectural and Artistic Highlights

Silver-Tiled Floor: Over 5,000 solid silver tiles, mostly covered for protection, with a section exposed for viewing. (Lonely Planet)
Emerald Buddha & Golden Buddha: The Baccarat crystal Emerald Buddha and the gold Maitreya Buddha with diamond inlays are the spiritual and artistic centerpieces.
Murals: The gallery walls feature 20th-century murals depicting the Reamker (the Khmer Ramayana). Restoration efforts continue to preserve their vivid storytelling.
Stupas & Royal Monuments: Several stupas honor past kings, and the site is adorned with lotus motifs and Buddhist symbols.
Khmer-European Fusion: Elements such as marble floors and balustrades reflect a blend of local and colonial influences.

Visitor Experience and Etiquette

Dress Code: Modest attire (shoulders and knees covered) is required.
Shoes: Remove shoes before entering temple buildings or sacred platforms.
Photography: Not allowed inside the pagoda; permitted in outdoor areas.
Respect: Maintain a quiet demeanor and respect the sanctity of the space.

Accessibility, Facilities, and Travel Tips

Location: Situated centrally within Phnom Penh, easily accessed by tuk-tuk, taxi, or on foot from nearby hotels. Entry is through the main Royal Palace gate. (Lonely Planet)
Facilities: Restrooms are near the palace entrance; water and snacks are available from vendors outside.
Accessibility: Most main paths are wheelchair accessible, but some sections and stairs may pose challenges.
What to Bring: Sun protection, easy-to-remove shoes, and a camera for outdoor photography.

Best Times to Visit

Season: November to February (cool, dry season) is most comfortable.
Time of Day: Early morning or late afternoon offers the best experience and lighting for photos.
Special Events: Check ahead for Buddhist festivals or royal ceremonies, which may affect access.

Nearby Attractions and Itinerary Planning

The Silver Pagoda can be combined with visits to:

Royal Palace Throne Hall and Moonlight Pavilion
National Museum of Cambodia
Wat Phnom and Wat Ounalom
Central Market and riverside Sisowath Quay

Plan for 1–2 hours at the Silver Pagoda and allow extra time for exploring the surrounding historical sites. (Getting Lost Again)

Photographic Spots and Visual Media

Rooftops & Courtyards: Excellent for sunrise or sunset shots.
Gardens & Stupas: Ideal for capturing Khmer architectural details.
Murals & Exposed Silver Tiles: Highlight the artistry and craftsmanship.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the Silver Pagoda’s opening hours?
A: Daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with some possible midday closure.

Q: How much is the ticket?
A: Around $10 USD for foreigners, combined with Royal Palace entry.

Q: Is photography allowed inside?
A: No, photography is prohibited inside the pagoda but allowed in the courtyards and gardens.

Q: What is the dress code?
A: Shoulders and knees must be covered; hats off inside temple buildings.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, local guides can be hired at the entrance or through tour operators.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: There is partial accessibility; some areas have steps or uneven terrain.

Q: What other attractions are nearby?
A: The Royal Palace, National Museum of Cambodia, Wat Phnom, and Central Market.

Plan Your Visit Today!

The Silver Pagoda is a masterpiece of Khmer architecture and a living repository of Cambodia’s royal and religious traditions. By following visitor guidelines, respecting sacred spaces, and considering a guided tour, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for this national treasure. Make the most of your trip by exploring the Royal Palace complex and nearby historical sites.

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Summary

The Silver Pagoda remains a captivating emblem of Cambodia’s spirituality, monarchy, and artistry. From its silver-tiled floor to its collection of priceless relics, the pagoda offers an immersive experience in the nation’s religious and historical heritage. By adhering to visitor protocols and planning your visit carefully, you can engage deeply with this remarkable site and the broader tapestry of Phnom Penh’s cultural landmarks. (Journey Cambodia; TravelSetu; Lonely Planet)