Wat Ounalom
វត្តឧណ្ណាលោម
One of Phnom Penh's most important Buddhist temples, founded in the 15th century, it is the headquarters of Cambodia's Buddhist monastic community and is said to enshrine a relic of the Buddha's eyebrow.
Wat Ounalom is in the riverside district, north of the Royal Palace. It was founded in 1443 and serves as the headquarters of the major Buddhist order in Cambodia. Its name means 'Buddha's eyebrow,' and the stupa is said to hold a hair from the Buddha's eyebrow. The red-roofed main hall has four tiers, and its murals depict the life of the Buddha. The temple was damaged during the Khmer Rouge era and has since been restored. Monks often chant and study here, and the atmosphere is serene. Admission is free, but dress appropriately and remove your shoes before entering the hall. It is in the riverside district and can be visited on foot together with the National Museum and the Royal Palace.
Opening hours
About 06:00–18:00
Nearby sights
- Riverside (Sisowath Quay)
- National Museum of Cambodia
- Mekong & Tonle Sap Sunset Cruise
- Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda
- Phnom Penh Night Market
- Central Market (Phsar Thmei)
- Wat Botum & Wat Botum Park
- Wat Phnom