Throne Hall building at the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

© Yulia-B/Getty Images/iStock

Throne Hall

Phnom Penh


The main attraction in the palace compound is the Throne Hall. Topped by a 59m-high tower inspired by the Bayon at Angkor, it was inaugurated in 1919 by King Sisowath. The hall is used for coronations and ceremonies such as the presentation of credentials by diplomats. Many of the items once displayed here were destroyed by the Khmer Rouge.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Phnom Penh attractions

1. Royal Palace

0.03 MILES

With its classic Khmer roofs and ornate gilding, the Royal Palace once dominated the skyline of Phnom Penh. It's a striking structure near the riverfront,…

2. Royal Treasury

0.04 MILES

This small building holds a small exhibition of royal costumes and regalia.

3. Building with Elephant Dock

0.04 MILES

This small structure was used by the king and other royal family members to mount and dismount the royal elephants for ceremonies.

5. Napoleon III Pavilion

0.05 MILES

Check out this curious iron pavilion, located south of the Throne Hall. Given to King Norodom by Napoleon III of France in 1876, it was hardly designed…

6. King's Residence

0.06 MILES

The official residence of King Sihamoni and his family is not open to the general public.

7. Banquet Hall

0.07 MILES

This building was traditionally used for royal dining; today it is used for ceremonial apsara (nymph) dances and training.

8. North Gate

0.07 MILES

North gate of the Royal Palace compound.