Phnom Penh, Cambodia Markets
The Capital of Cambodia Boasts some of the Best and Cheapest Markets
Apr 24, 2009
Cambodia's modern capital Phnom Penh is a vibrant bustling city nestling majestically on the banks of two mighty rivers, the Mekong and the Tonle Sap. These rivers then split again as the Mekong and the Tonle Bassac, this place is known to the Khmers as Chaktomuk, meaning four faces. Phnom Penh is a city of contrasts, a relic of colonial times compared to the modernity of other Asian capitals. With wide tree-lined boulevards and low-rise buildings Phnom Penh still harks back to the colonial days of this former French playground and the many older French colonial buildings, much in evidence, add to the ambiance.
Central Market in Phnom Penh
This magnificent market is one of the largest and busiest markets in Phnom Penh. Built in 1937 by French architects it stays surprisingly cool, even in the heat of the hottest day, many interesting products are available, most quite cheap and of course the mandatory bargaining is expected. The eastern side, which is the main entrance, has many souvenirs and ornaments on sale from T-shirts to large stone heads. In the centre are the many jewellery stores and precious stone vendors as well as an assortment of cosmetics, electrical goods, clothing and books. In January 2009 market was in the process of redevelopment.
The Russian Market or Toul Tom Pong Market
This typically Asian market with its narrow aisles and small cramped stalls is probably the city's best source of objects d'art. Items for sale include wooden and stone carvings, various ritual objects, silverware, and old Indochinese notes and coins. There is a large range of antiquities and curios for those prepared to look, there are also gold and silversmiths inside the market who can be seen custom making jewellery. Both Cambodian and Chinese Silk and clothes are plentiful and always there is a bargain waiting for the discerning buyer. This is one of the most popular markets in Phnom Penh with foreign residents and tourists who can spend many an interesting hour browsing before choosing the perfect gift.
O'Russei Market
On the North side of the Olympic Stadium in Phnom Penh is a typical Cambodian market catering to the every needs of the local people. Here the sights and smells of this market give the visitor the feel of a local market with many women still purchasing their foodstuffs on a daily basis. This market is full of local character and one can only imagine the banter that takes place between all the vendors and customers. Here, is one of the best selections of the different types of fruit from all over the region, though the choice, naturally, depends on the season.
Olympic Market
The cheapest market in town with plenty of wholesale goods on offer. It was renovated and re-opened in 1994 as a three story modern building and can boast with pride as being the only building in Cambodia with escalators
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