Shopping in Phnom Penh

Cambodian artisans are very skilled and there is no shortage of articles to buy when shopping in Phnom Penh. Unique to Cambodia is the krama, a checked scarf made of cotton or silk. Silk is still hand-woven in Cambodia and can be purchases as lengths of material or in the form of scarves, bags or purses. Silver boxes are traditional souvenirs, many in the shape of animals.

Key areas

There are a number of interesting art galleries, silk dealers and souvenir shops on Street 178. Also look out for shops such as NCDP Handicrafts and Wat Than Handicrafts, both on Norodom Boulevard, selling handicrafts to raise money for disadvantaged Cambodians.

Markets

The Central Market, an art deco building, is well worth a visit as it sells fruit, vegetables, meat and fish as well as clothes, gems and gifts. The Russian Market in the south of the city, on the corner of Streets 155 and 444, is a maze of narrow, dark alleyways crammed with stalls holding a vast selection of bargain souvenirs including clothing, silverware, jewellery, silk, bags, DVDs, CDs and ceramics.

Shopping centres

For a taste of the west, head either to Sorya, close to the Central market, Sovanna on Street 271 or City Mall on Monireth Boulevard near the Olympic Stadium. They are all air-conditioned complexes offering clothing, electronic and jewellery shops plus fast-food outlets and supermarkets.

Opening hours

Bargaining is expected in the markets, which are open daily from around 0700 to 1700. Shop opening times vary.