Wat Phnom

Wat Phnom is a historic Buddhist temple and one of the most famous landmarks in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. It is located on a small hill about 27 meters high, making it the highest point in the city. The temple was originally built in 1372 and, according to legend, was founded by a wealthy woman named Lady Penh, who discovered four Buddha statues inside a floating tree trunk in the river. She built a shrine on the hill to house the statues, and the city later took the name “Phnom Penh,” meaning “Hill of Penh.” Wat Phnom is surrounded by a peaceful park and features a grand staircase guarded by lion and naga (serpent) statues. The temple is still active today, attracting both locals who come to pray and tourists who want to explore its history, enjoy the views, or participate in traditional festivals like Khmer New Year and Pchum Ben.