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Leaving the traffic of Phnom Penh for Oudong feels like stepping back into an earlier era of Khmer history. Oudong was the royal capital of Cambodia in the periods starting in 1618 and 1866,[1] and its hill is topped by stupas that look like a fairy castle from a distance.[1] It is one of the most rewarding day trips from the capital.
You can browse private transfers for this trip on GoAsia.cc.
Phnom Penh to Oudong by Road
Phnom Udong lies in Ponhea Leu district, about 41 kilometres north of Phnom Penh.[1] The usual way there is National Road 5 (Phnom Penh to Battambang), turning off at kilometre 37; from the turning the road to the former city is clearly marked and less than 4 kilometres long.[1]
Because the site lies outside the city, most visitors hire a car, taxi or tuk-tuk for the day. A private car lets you be dropped close to the foot of the hill and picked up again at an agreed time, which saves energy for the climb. Agree the price and the return time before you set off, and allow extra time for traffic when leaving Phnom Penh.
What You Will See
The main hill carries stupas that hold the remains of past monarchs, including King Ang Duong, and a large stupa completed in 2002 that houses relics of the Buddha.[1]
Tips for Traveling from Phnom Penh to Oudong
- Beat the Heat: Leave Phnom Penh early in the morning. The climb up the hill involves many steps, and doing it before the midday sun makes it much more pleasant.
- Dress Code: Oudong is a sacred site with active pagodas and shrines. Cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect, and wear light, breathable fabrics.
- Monkeys: Macaques live on the hill. Keep a firm grip on your belongings, especially food, sunglasses and cameras.
- Hydration: Carry a reusable water bottle for the ascent.
- Photography: Respect any signs that restrict photography inside specific shrines.
Timetable
| Taxi Phnom Penh - Oudong $ 164.63–274.39 1h 5m | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Use the booking tool on this page to compare the transport options currently available from Phnom Penh to Oudong, including current prices and schedules.
Sharing a taxi or tuk-tuk between several people usually keeps the cost per person low. Fares are negotiated, so agree the price and the return time before you leave.
A private car or taxi along National Road 5 is the most direct way. Oudong is about 41 kilometres north of Phnom Penh.
Phnom Udong is about 41 kilometres north of Phnom Penh. The turning off National Road 5 is at kilometre 37, and from there the road to the former city is less than 4 kilometres long.
Yes. Oudong is one of the most popular day trips from the capital. Start early to avoid the heat and the heaviest traffic leaving Phnom Penh.
It helps to book a private transfer in advance, especially at weekends and public holidays when many locals also visit, so you get the vehicle size you need.
Sources and background
Numbers in the text such as [1] refer to these sources.
- [1] Ministry of Tourism of Cambodia, TourismCambodia.com: Phnom Odong, Attraction in Kandal. Retrieved October 18, 2026.
Guide prices and journey times are indicative, not live quotes. A booked package may include transfers and waiting time as well as the main journey. Check the selected offer, pickup point and current conditions before booking.