What is the capital of Cambodia?
Cambodia's capital is Phnom Penh, which has held this status since 1866. This metropolis of over 2 million inhabitants is located at the confluence of the Mekong River and the Tonlé Sap River.
Phnom Penh, historic capital
Phnom Penh became the capital of Cambodia in 1866, under the reign of King Norodom I. The city takes its name from the Wat Phnom pagoda, built on an artificial hill in the heart of the city.
A modern metropolis at the confluence of waters
Located at the confluence of the Mekong and the Tonlé Sap River, Phnom Penh is home to over 2 million inhabitants today. This strategic geographical position makes it a major commercial crossroads in Southeast Asia.
- Political center: seat of government, royal palace and institutions
- Economic hub: main financial and commercial center of the country
- Cultural wealth: numerous temples, museums and historic monuments
To remember
Phnom Penh accounts for nearly one-sixth of Cambodia's population and is the ideal starting point for exploring the Khmer kingdom, particularly the temples of Angkor in Siem Reap.