National Museum of Cambodia

What to See at the National Museum of Cambodia

The Sculpture Galleries

The museum’s core strength is stone and bronze sculpture spanning from the pre-Angkorian Funan and Chenla periods (5th–8th century) through the height of the Khmer Empire to the post-Angkorian era. Many pieces were recovered directly from Angkor, Sambor Prei Kuk, and other temple sites, giving essential context for what’s now missing from the ruins themselves.

The Bronze Collection

A dedicated gallery houses an exceptional bronze collection, including a large reclining Vishnu statue recovered from the West Mebon temple at Angkor — one of the largest and most technically accomplished bronze castings to survive from the Khmer Empire.

The Building and Courtyard

Designed by French archaeologist and artist George Groslier and completed in 1920, the museum’s terracotta-red building is itself an example of traditional Khmer architecture, built around a tranquil courtyard garden with a lotus pond — a quiet contrast to the busy streets outside.

Evening: Cambodian Living Arts Dance Show

After the museum closes to daytime visitors, the same courtyard becomes an open-air stage for Cambodian Living Arts’ nightly “Plae Pakaa” show, 7–8pm — classical Apsara and Moni Mekhala dance performed by an NGO-trained company of around 30 artists, many from disadvantaged backgrounds. It’s a separate ticketed event from the daytime museum visit (from $15, with a buffet-dinner option), booked directly through Cambodian Living Arts rather than the museum.

How to Get to the National Museum of Cambodia

The museum sits directly behind the Royal Palace, on Street 13 in central Phnom Penh.

• Walking: 5 minutes from the Royal Palace, easily combined into the same visit
• Tuk-tuk: $2–3 from most riverside hotels
• Combine with: The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda next door for a full morning of Khmer history and art

Best Time to Visit

Late morning works well, after the Royal Palace’s morning opening hours and before the early afternoon heat. The museum is air-conditioned in its main galleries, making it a comfortable midday stop.

Practical Information

• $10 entry for foreigners; a $3 photography permit is required to take pictures inside
• Flash photography is prohibited throughout to protect the artworks
• Information panels are in Khmer, English, and French
• Allow extra time if combining with the Royal Palace — both are best done at an unhurried pace
• The evening Cambodian Living Arts dance show in the same courtyard is a separate booking — see [email protected]

Nearby Attractions

The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda are immediately adjacent, and the Phnom Penh riverfront promenade is a 5-minute walk away for a break afterward.