Odong Mountain

Oudong Mountain, also known as Phnom Oudong or Phnom Preah Reach Troap ("Hill of the Royal Fortune"), is a historically significant site located approximately 35 kilometers northwest of Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Serving as the royal capital from 1618 to 1866, Oudong was the center of Cambodian power during the post-Angkorian period. The mountain is renowned for its collection of stupas, temples, and shrines that house the remains of past monarchs and sacred Buddhist relics, including a relic believed to be a piece of the Buddha himself. UNESCO World Heritage Centre+4Wikipedia+4Wikipedia+4Shermans Travel

Visitors to Oudong Mountain can ascend a staircase of over 500 steps to reach the summit, where they are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Along the way, one can explore various historical structures, such as the Arthaross Temple, notable for its north-facing Buddha statue—a unique orientation symbolizing the strength of the ancient Khmer kingdom.  The site also features a recently constructed stupa, inaugurated in 2002, which enshrines sacred relics and serves as a testament to Cambodia's enduring spiritual traditions. Wikipedia

Today, Oudong Mountain stands as a place of pilgrimage and reflection, offering insight into Cambodia's rich history and cultural heritage. Its significance has been recognized by its inclusion on UNESCO's Tentative List for World Heritage status.