04/12/2023
Wat Phnom
Set on top of a tree-covered hill of 27m height, Wat Phnom is the only hill in town. According to legend, the first pagoda on this site was built in 1373 to house four statues of Buddha deposited here by the waters of the Mekong and discovered by a woman name Penh. The main entrance to Wat Phnom is via the grand eastern staircase, which is guarded by lions and naga (snake) balustrades.
Today, many people come here to pray for good luck and success in school exams or business affairs. When a petitioner's wish is granted, he or she returns to make the offering (such as a garland of jasmine flowers or bananas, of which the spirits are said to be especially fond) promised when the request was made.
The entrance is free for Cambodians, while foreign tourists need to pay 1$ for the visit.