The Silver Pagoda houses a 17th-century emerald Buddha statue made of Baccarat crystal.
The palace floor of the Silver Pagoda contains over five tons of solid silver.
The Napoleon III Pavilion, a gift from the French emperor, was originally built for the opening of the Suez Canal.
The Moonlight Pavilion, or Preah Tineang Chan Chhaya, is used for royal performances and as a viewing stand for parades.
The complex was constructed on the site of an older citadel called Banteay Kev.
Several statues within the complex are adorned with thousands of diamonds, including one weighing 25 carats.
The walls of the Silver Pagoda are decorated with a mural of the Reamker, the Cambodian version of the Ramayana epic.
The Royal Palace of Cambodia is the official residence of the King of Cambodia and a complex of traditional Khmer-style buildings constructed in 1866. Situated at the confluence of the Tonlé Sap and Mekong rivers, it functions as a venue for royal ceremonies and state events. The complex features the Throne Hall, which is used for coronations and royal audiences, and the Silver Pagoda, known for its floor tiled with over 5,000 solid silver blocks. The grounds contain manicured gardens, stupas, and shrines including the Napoleon III Pavilion. The architecture incorporates elements of French colonial influence alongside traditional Khmer design principles. Only the Silver Pagoda, the Khemarin Palace's garden area, and the surrounding grounds are open to public access. Visitors can observe the distinct yellow walls and ornate tiered roofs characteristic of the site's mid-19th-century design. The palace remains an active seat of government and royal authority, resulting in restricted access during official state functions.
The garden path leading toward the Throne Hall offers the most symmetrical architectural views.
Hire a licensed guide at the entrance for context on the complex iconography.
Carry a water bottle and umbrella for sun protection, as the complex has minimal shade.
Check local announcements for state events, as the palace closes periodically for visiting dignitaries.
Do not attempt to enter areas marked as private or restricted, as these are active royal living quarters.
The complex closes periodically for official royal ceremonies or state functions without advance notice.
Visitors must cover shoulders and knees; hats must be removed inside buildings; shoes must be removed before entering the Silver Pagoda.
