Oudong

Oudong (Oudongk) was the royal capital of Cambodia from the 17th century until 1866, when King Norodom moved the capital to Phnom Penh. Located in Kampong Speu Province about 40 km northwest of Phnom Penh, it is a major historical and pilgrimage site. The mountain-top stupas and royal tombs offer panoramic views and a deep sense of Khmer history.

The site is popular for day trips from Phnom Penh, especially for those interested in pre-colonial Cambodian history.

By Plane

Fly to Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH), then drive 40 km northwest (about 1 hour).

By Car / Road

Take National Highway 5 from Phnom Penh towards Oudong. Taxis, minibuses, and rented cars all make the 1-hour trip. Motorbike is a popular option for adventurous travellers.

Walking up the hill to the stupas and temples is necessary. Motorbike taxis can take you part of the way.

• Oudong Mountain (Phnom Oudong) — the hill crowned with stupas and royal tombs

• Stupas of Khmer kings — monuments to 17th–19th century monarchs

• Buddhist monasteries — active pagodas with monks and novices

• Views over the Cambodian countryside — panoramic rice-field vistas

• Climb to the hilltop stupas for sunrise or sunset

• Visit the monasteries and observe daily monastic life

• Picnic among the temple ruins

• Photography of the stupa-studded hill and rural landscapes

Local food stalls near the entrance serve noodles, rice dishes, and grilled foods. Many visitors bring a picnic.

Fresh coconuts, sugarcane juice, and bottled water are available.

Most visitors visit as a day trip from Phnom Penh. Basic guesthouses are available in the nearby town.

Souvenir stalls near the site entrance sell drinks, snacks, and Buddhist amulets.

• Phnom Penh — Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, Tuol Sleng, and riverside
• Kampong Speu town — provincial capital
• Phnom Penh — capital city, 40 km southeast
• Kirirom National Park — hill station with pine forests