Phnom Penh is the capital of Cambodia bordering with its three main rivers of the Mekong, the Tonle Sap and the Bassac and happens to be the main economic, cultural, historical and tourist center of the country. Well-known for its traditional Khmer performances and the architecture influenced by the French empire, it was called the “Pearl of Asia” at the beginning of the decade of late 20s. It is home to over one million of Cambodian population and is the richest city in the country being the industrial and political hub of Cambodia.

The city name came firstly from the hill temple which was called “Wat Phnom Daun Penh” in 1373 but after the name was changed to “Daun Penh” who was a wealthy widow during that period. The story of the city begins with this woman who was called “Grandma Penh” and who lived on the west bank of the river. During a continuous rainy season in 1372 many Koki tree were floating on the flood blocking the land of the woman and in a hole of one tree found one stone and four bronze Buddha statues. Then Daun Penh wanted to pile up earth next to her house and set up a temple there using the Koki trunks to keep the five Buddha statues. Thus the temple was named “Wat Phnom Daun Penh” and eventually the city got the name Phnom Penh derived from the name Phnom Daun Penh.

Phnom Penh has now become a land full of ancient temples along with many exotic tourist attractions offering enjoyable experience in beautiful beaches. The city covers an area of 375 square kilometers and despite the destruction during the war period; it still has protected the traditional value and its colonial charm. It has also become a major shopping destination for tourists and locals alike. In addition it has converted into a destination that provides premier accommodation facilities with many Cambodia hotels such as Raffles Le Royal which is a much sought after luxury hotel in Phnom Penh.