Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, sits at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers. It is the cultural, commercial, and political center of the country and houses a population that reflects its rich and complex history. Phnom Penh exudes a provincial charm and tranquility with French colonial mansions and tree-lined boulevards amidst monumental Angkorian architecture. The city was once known as the 'Pearl of Asia' and it was considered one of the loveliest French-built cities in Indochina in the 1920s. Despite undergoing rapid development, it retains much of its colonial charm. Key attractions include the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National Museum, and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, which recounts the city’s tragic history under the Khmer Rouge regime. The bustling riverfront offers a variety of dining and shopping experiences. The city also serves as a gateway to the rest of the country and the beautiful landscapes that Cambodia offers.
