Cambodia

Located near Wat Phnom, on a square intersected by Street 13, the Central Post Office of Phnom Penh stands in the heart of the city’s former French administrative quarter. It remains the largest post office in Cambodia and is a proud symbol of the architectural heritage from the French Protectorate era (1863–1953), a pivotal period in the country's history.

Historical background

Constructed in 1890 based on plans by French architect Daniel Fabre, the Phnom Penh Post Office was the first administrative building erected by the French protectorate, initially named the "Hôtel des Postes et Télégraphe" (Post and Telegraph Office). Expanded and renovated several times over the decades, its most recent transformation was completed in 2004.

Since its inception, the post office has continuously provided all the core services expected of such an institution: domestic and international mail, telecommunications, philately, and the rental of post office boxes. Today, it also operates a transportation service to major Cambodian cities. Known as “VIP Vans,” this initiative uses comfortably equipped vehicles that transport mailbags throughout the country.

Visiting Phnom Penh’s Central Post Office

The Central Post Office is a grand two-story building, flanked by symmetrical side wings and painted in a vibrant yellow hue. The ground floor houses various service counters for the public, along with administrative offices, while the upper floors accommodate workspaces and storage rooms.

Inside, the post office retains a nostalgic charm. Its architecture has been well preserved and showcases the elegance of colonial design. Balconies and balustrades, sculpted stucco pediments, Corinthian columns, and Romanesque windows reflect the neoclassical style that was popular in the early 19th century.

The post office gave its name to the square it occupies. During the French colonial era, Post Office Square was surrounded by buildings of significant importance.

To the south, the current fine-dining restaurant “Van’s” occupies the former premises of the Banque de l’Indochine, which held the exclusive right to issue currency in the colonies. To the north, at the corner of Street 98, the large decaying structure is the old Police Commissariat and headquarters of the colonial law enforcement. The building directly opposite the post office was once Phnom Penh’s only hotel. Originally known as the “Grand Hôtel,” it became “Hôtel Manolis” under new ownership in 1920. It was in this hotel that the renowned French writer and former Minister of Culture, André Malraux, and his wife Clara were placed under house arrest after stealing valuable bas-reliefs from the Banteay Srei temple near Angkor.

How to get there

The Central Post Office is located on Post Office Square, at the corner of Street 102. From the city center, it is easily accessible by tuk-tuk, taxi, or even on foot for those who enjoy walking.

Opening hours

The post office remains open all day, but services to the public are available only Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and from 2:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.