Royal Watching

Copyright Tan and Trev 2005

Wandering around the royal grounds provided a much needed break from our routine.

Built by King Norodom in Khmer style with French assistance in 1866, the palace functions as the official residence of King Norodom Sihanouk since his return to the capital in 1992.



Copyright Tan and Trev 2005

The king's residential quarters, are not allowed to visit, but much of the complex is accessible . You can visit the Royal Throne Hall, (although it is somewhat annoying to pay a camera cover-charge at the front gate - only to later discover that photography not allowed in some buildings).

Within the palace compound are the coronation hall, an open-air theater, a balcony for royal appearances, an open air pavilion for entertaining, the royal residence and office. Most of these buildings are closed to the public but are well worth a peek from the outside.

Inside the Trone hall, many golden sculpures including the Royal Treasury, and exhibition of encient Khmer art.



Copyright Tan and Trev 2005