Wat Langka

Hidden Local Temple – Begin your journey at the meeting point: Wat Langka Preah Kossamaram, Samdach Louis Em, Phnom Penh, where you’ll meet your local licensed guide. From there, we’ll walk together to a tranquil hidden temple, rarely visited by tourists, adorned with golden stupas and vibrant murals illustrating stories from the life and teachings of the Buddha. As we explore, I’ll share insights into the monks’ daily rituals, the temple’s historical significance, and its role in the local community. This hidden gem offers a peaceful introduction to Cambodian spirituality and a more intimate understanding of Buddhist traditions before continuing on to the rest of the itinerary.

Independence Monument

Independence Monument & National Park – Visit one of Phnom Penh’s most iconic landmarks, built in 1958 to celebrate Cambodia’s independence from French colonial rule in 1953. Designed in the form of a lotus-shaped stupa, the monument is richly decorated with traditional Khmer motifs and stands as a proud symbol of freedom and national identity. It remains a central site for official ceremonies and national events, especially on Independence Day (November 9). The surrounding park offers a peaceful green space where locals gather to walk, relax, and enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Here, I will share in detail the story of how Cambodia achieved independence from France, the challenges the country faced in the decades that followed, and the journey through war, occupation, and transition that ultimately led to peace and democracy in 1993.