The royal tombs
Tall stupas on the ridge.
Ravivaddhana — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Lars Olsen — CC BY-SA 2.0 · Lars Olsen — CC BY-SA 2.0 · Sir Nicholas de Mimsy-Porpington — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Don Christie — CC BY-SA 4.0
Oudong is an old town that served as Cambodia's capital for almost 250 years, at the foot of a mountain carrying its royal tombs north-west of Phnom Penh. Tall Buddhist stupas on the long ridge can be seen from far across the plain. It makes an easy half-day trip from the capital, combining history, open air and a broad view. King Srei Soryapor founded it in 1601, and it was the royal capital from 1618 until 1866, when King Norodom moved his court to Phnom Penh. Under King Ang Duong it gained canals, terraces, bridges and many pagodas. Its monuments suffered heavy damage in the 1970s and some were rebuilt later, so it is now a mix of old and new. You climb about 500 stone steps to the ridge and walk among tall royal tombs with fine decoration, including those of King Sisowath Monivong and King Ang Duong. From crumbling arches you look over a green plain and distant river, a view that feels especially wide in the green months. Visitors mention food stalls below. It is about 36 km in a straight line from Phnom Penh, reached by car or bus on National Road 5. Climb early in the morning or late in the day to avoid the heat, and bring water and a hat. This is a religious place, so cover your shoulders and knees, walk quietly among the tombs and respect worshippers.
Tall stupas on the ridge.
Green land and a far river.
A climb in the open air.
North-west of Phnom Penh on National Road 5, Cambodia
Yes. Half a day is enough, ideally early in the morning before the heat.
About 500 steps, so it is moderate. Bring water and take your time.