Central Market (Phsar Thmei)

ផ្សារធំថ្មី

A yellow Art Deco market built in 1937 with a giant dome and four radiating wings, offering gold jewelry, watches, krama scarves, dried goods, and snacks. It is a landmark and shopping hub of Phnom Penh.

The Central Market (Khmer: Phsar Thmei, 'New Market') sits in the heart of Phnom Penh. Designed by French architects and completed in 1937, it is a massive Art Deco building with a central dome 26 meters in diameter and 45 meters high, plus four radiating wings. When it opened it was said to be the largest market in Asia. Its bright yellow exterior and well-ventilated dome interior remain among the city's most famous buildings, and it was renovated in 2011 with French funding. The market is clearly divided into zones. Under the central dome are counters selling gold and silver jewelry, gemstones, and watches (Cambodian gold is priced by weight, and the craftsmanship is traditional, so check carefully for authenticity). The wings sell clothing, checked krama scarves, Khmer silk, wood carvings, silverware, and other souvenirs, along with electronics, glasses, and knock-off T-shirts. Outside are stalls of flowers, fresh fruit, dried goods, and cooked food, where you can try Khmer noodle soup, grilled bananas, coconut cakes, and various tropical fruits. Locals gather for breakfast. Prices are negotiable, and souvenirs can often be bargained down from half the asking price. Be cautious about buying gold and gemstones in large amounts unless you are a professional. Getting there: it is in the city center, a 15-minute walk from the riverside district or a 5-minute tuk-tuk ride. Tips: spend about an hour here in the morning, buy krama scarves, cashews, and pepper as gifts, and have breakfast at the food area. If you want more handicrafts, visit the Russian Market (Phsar Toul Tom Poung) in the south, where prices are lower but there are more foreign tourists. Note: watch for pickpockets in crowded areas, don't exchange money at the entrance, and expect extreme crowds on weekends and around Khmer New Year.

Central Market (Phsar Thmei)

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