Full Day Oudong Former Capital City & Phnom Penh City Tour

Experience Cambodia’s Heritage with the Full Day Oudong and Phnom Penh City Tour

This comprehensive day tour offers an excellent way to see some of Cambodia’s most iconic sights, blending history, culture, and craftsmanship. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, detailed accounts suggest it’s ideal for travelers eager to understand Cambodia’s past and present in one immersive package.

What we love most? The chance to explore the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, marvel at Wat Phnom, and enjoy the panoramic views from Oudong Mountain—all in one day. Plus, the visit to the Silver Smith Making Village adds an authentic crafts experience.

One potential consideration is the pace; with so many stops packed into 7-8 hours, it can feel quite full-on, especially if you prefer a more relaxed sightseeing style. However, this tour suits those who want a well-rounded, efficient glimpse of Phnom Penh and Oudong without the hassle of planning multiple trips.

In summary, this tour is perfect for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a deep dive into Cambodia’s royal and spiritual roots—delivered with convenience and guided insights. Whether you’re short on time or eager to see key landmarks, it offers remarkable value for a full day of exploration.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Includes entrance fees, a licensed guide, private AC transportation, and hotel pickup/drop-off.
• Diverse Highlights: Visits to Phnom Penh’s top landmarks plus Oudong’s ancient stupas and temples.
• Authentic Cultural Touch: Stop at the Silver Smith Making Village to see artisans at work.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Ideal Duration: 7 to 8 hours, making it a full yet manageable day.
• Group Option: Group discounts available, but this is a private tour for your group only.

Exploring Phnom Penh’s Landmarks

The Royal Palace

The Royal Palace is the centerpiece of Cambodia’s regal history, commanding attention with its impressive architecture and spiritual significance. Built in 1866, it’s both a residence and a symbol of the nation’s resilience. Expect to see traditional Khmer design elements, gold-tipped roofs, and intricate courtyards. We loved the way the guides explain the history behind each section, making the visit feel personal and meaningful.

Spending about an hour and a half here allows enough time to appreciate the grandeur without feeling rushed. Entrance fees are included, so you can focus on absorbing the surroundings instead of worrying about ticket purchases.

The Silver Pagoda

Within the palace complex lies the Silver Pagoda, celebrated for its stunning floor of silver tiles and its collection of priceless Buddha statues. Built to house Cambodia’s most sacred relics, the pagoda offers a peaceful atmosphere filled with spiritual energy.

A highlight for many travelers is the chance to see the Emerald Buddha and other revered statues. The pagoda’s beauty is enhanced by its ornate decorations and tranquil ambiance, making it a memorable stop to reflect on Cambodia’s religious traditions. The tour allocates about 45 minutes here, providing enough time to admire the architecture and explore the treasures.

Wat Phnom

Perched atop a 27-meter hill in the city, Wat Phnom is central to Phnom Penh’s founding legend. The temple is dedicated to the city’s mythic founder, Daun Penh, and features a serene garden and historic structures.

Visitors often comment on the stunning views overlooking Phnom Penh from the hilltop, especially at sunrise or sunset, but even during the day, it’s a peaceful respite from city bustle. Expect a walk around the grounds and some insight into local religious practices. The visit lasts about 45 minutes.

The Independence Monument & Norodom Sihanouk Statue

These are the city’s symbols of national pride. The Independence Monument’s Khmer architecture is striking and represents Cambodia’s freedom from colonial rule. The statue of King Father Norodom Sihanouk honors a leader credited with modernizing Cambodia and fostering unity.

The combined visit takes about 20 minutes, giving a quick yet meaningful snapshot of Cambodia’s recent history and pride. Both sites are often praised for their impressive scale and the stories your guide shares.

Venturing to Oudong: Cambodia’s Spiritual Heart

Phnom Oudong

About 40 kilometers northwest of Phnom Penh, Phnom Oudong served as Cambodia’s royal capital until 1866. It remains a vital spiritual site, with grand stupas, ancient pagodas, and breathtaking views. The journey there offers scenic countryside vistas—perfect for those who enjoy a scenic drive.

The site’s hilltop stupas hold the remains of former kings, and the atmosphere is one of reverence. Expect a 20-minute stop to take in the panoramic views of the surrounding rice fields and rivers, which are especially stunning at sunrise or sunset but equally captivating during the day.

Oudong Temple & Preah Sakyamoni Chedi

The Oudong Temple complex is rich with history and spiritual significance. As you walk around, you’ll find ancient stupas and statues reflecting centuries of Buddhist tradition. The Preah Sakyamoni Chedi, located on the slopes of Oudong Mountain, is a sacred site where the Buddha’s relics are enshrined.

According to reviews, visitors appreciated the sense of serenity and history, with some noting that the site can be quite crowded during peak times. The 40-minute exploration provides enough time to absorb the spiritual ambiance and enjoy the views.

Silver Smith Making Village

Before heading back to Phnom Penh, the tour makes a 40-minute stop at this traditional village. Here, skilled artisans craft intricate silver jewelry and artifacts using age-old techniques. Visitors often enjoy watching the artisans at work, discussing their craft, and purchasing unique souvenirs.

This stop adds an authentic touch, showcasing Cambodia’s craftsmanship and supporting local artisans. Visitors frequently mention the craftsmanship’s quality, making it a highlight for those interested in arts and culture.

Practical Details & What to Expect

Transportation and Comfort: The tour features private air-conditioned transport, which is a big plus for comfort given the long day. The pickup and drop-off at your hotel make logistics simple.

Timing and Pacing: With 7 to 8 hours scheduled, the itinerary is tightly packed. Expect an early start and a full day of sightseeing, possibly with some walking involved at various sites. The guide’s insights help make the pace manageable.

Group Size and Personal Experience: While this is a private tour, group discounts are available. Many travelers appreciate having a dedicated guide, which means personalized attention and stories behind each landmark.

Cost and Value: At $83.60 per person, including entrance fees, guide, transportation, and hotel pickup/drop-off, this tour offers excellent value. Compared to DIY trips, the convenience and guided insights elevate the experience.

Additional Tips: Wear comfortable shoes, bring water (though the tour supplies cold bottles), and be prepared for some sun exposure during outdoor stops. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues may want to check accessibility.

Who is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want an all-in-one overview of Phnom Penh’s highlights and the spiritual significance of Oudong. It’s ideal if you prefer a structured, guided experience that takes the hassle out of planning.

History buffs will appreciate the detailed commentary, while culture enthusiasts will enjoy the crafts stop. If you’re short on time but eager to see Cambodia’s royal and religious sites, this tour packs impressive content into a single day.

However, if you prefer to explore at a slower pace or want to spend more time in fewer locations, this might feel a bit rushed. It’s best suited for those who enjoy active sightseeing with a knowledgeable guide.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple and hassle-free.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, covering multiple landmarks and sites.

Are entrance fees included?
All entrance fees listed in the itinerary are included, so there’s no need to worry about extra costs on the day.

Is this a group or private activity?
It’s a private tour activity, meaning only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera. The tour provides cold bottles of water throughout.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved, especially at Oudong and the temples.

To sum it up, this Full Day Oudong and Phnom Penh City Tour offers a well-rounded, engaging look into Cambodia’s royal, spiritual, and artistic heritage. With its convenient logistics, detailed guide commentary, and authentic craft stops, it provides great value for those eager to get a comprehensive understanding of Cambodia in just one day. It’s a particularly good choice for history lovers, culture seekers, and travelers wanting a guided experience that covers the essentials without rushing. If you want a day filled with meaningful sights, stunning views, and local craftsmanship, this tour is a smart choice.