A visit to the Royal Palace of Cambodia

The Royal Palace of Cambodia in Phnom Penh is a perfect example of classic Khmer architecture. The palace was built by King Norodom in 1866 and then rebuilt between 1912 and 1932.

Located on the confluence of the Rivers Tonle Sap and Mekong, the palace, with its tall golden spires, gilded roof tops that shimmer in the bright Cambodian sun, and delightfully ornate interiors, creates a mesmerising visual treat.

It is the official residence of the King of Cambodia. Despite the opulence and grandeur of the palace, there is a calm serenity in the air that is very refreshing. King Norodom Sihamoni is believed to be a quiet king who strictly adheres to Buddhist principles. It's this austerity that gets reflected in the overall ambience of the palace.

A few things to remember before visiting the palace

• The palace is open to the public on all days from 8:00 am to 11:00 am and from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Since it is the official residence of the King of Cambodia, the palace is closed to the public for official ceremonies. Please check their official website before planning your visit.

  
  

• Being the official residence of the king, tourists are allowed to visit only the Throne Hall and the Silver Pagoda. King's private living quarters are out of bounds for the public.

  
  

• The entry ticket to the palace is 10.00 USD for all foreign nationals.

  
  

• There's a lot of history that precedes the palace, so hiring a local guide is a good idea. Charges for the guide are 10.00 USD for a conducted tour of the Throne Hall, the Armoury or the Museum, Pavilion of Napoleon III, and the Silver Pagoda with its famous Emerald Buddha, which lies on the same premises across the gated complex.

• As I've mentioned in my earlier Cambodia blogs, please dress modestly for your palace visit, covering your shoulders and knees. This signage at the entrance to the palace says it all...

This is the venerated Throne Hall where official ceremonies like coronations and other royal occasions are celebrated. I saw some locals bowing in front of the throne where the king presides, even though the king was not in the palace at that time.

Photography of the Throne Hall is strictly prohibited; tourists trying to click pictures, even from the outside, are looked at with a lot of disdain, so all I could click was this picture and a small video.

To sum up, I'd say the Royal Palace should be top of your must-see attractions in Phnom Penh, you will not only get to see a gloriously ornate edifice but will also get a glimpse into the Cambodian culture and Khmer architecture.