Information
Landmark: Oudong MountainCity: Kandal
Country: Cambodia
Continent: Asia
Oudong Mountain, Kandal, Cambodia, Asia
Overview
Oudong Mountain, or Phnom Oudong, rises about 40 kilometers northwest of Phnom Penh in Kandal Province, Cambodia, its slopes dotted with ancient stupas and sacred shrines, in turn from the early 1600s until the mid-1800s, it was Cambodia’s capital, its streets buzzing with markets and the scent of frying fish, before Phnom Penh took over as the permanent seat of power.Today, Oudong draws pilgrims to its hilltop, where golden stupas, quiet temples, and relics of past Khmer kings catch the sunlight, to boot king Srei Soryopor, also known as Barom Reachea IV, founded it in the early 1600s, when the air was thick with incense from bustling temple courtyards.It was Cambodia’s royal capital until 1866, when King Norodom packed up his court and shifted it to Phnom Penh, what’s more it took heavy damage during the Khmer Rouge era, but today many of its buildings stand restored, their stone walls sparkling in the sun, slightly The name “Oudong” comes from the Sanskrit word “Uttunga,” meaning “supreme” or “high,” a nod to its lofty importance, like a spire rising above the plain, besides many of the stupas hold the ashes of past Khmer kings, along with sacred Buddhist relics-fragments of bone wrapped in faded silk.The Preah Reach Damrei Stupa, or Stupa of the Royal Elephant, is said to hold a sacred relic of the Buddha, kept deep within its cool stone walls, therefore wat Oudong is a living monastery, home to saffron-robed monks, where visitors might catch the soft chant of a Buddhist ceremony drifting through the air.The steep staircase-more than 500 steps-climbs to the summit, where you can take in sweeping views of the rolling countryside dotted with miniature stone farmhouses, consequently at Oudong Mountain’s Preah Srei Santhor Stupa, built by King Ang Duong, you’ll find royal relics resting in the quiet glow of gilded chambers.Preah Atharos, the Giant Buddha, sits towering and still, gazing out over the land like a silent guardian, as well as wat Oudong is a Buddhist monastery, its spires rising above the trees and covered in ornate Khmer carvings.From the summit, you can spot a sweep of green rice fields, quiet villages, and the wide shimmer of the Tonle Sap River, likewise to get there, head about 40 kilometers northwest of Phnom Penh on National Road 5, where the asphalt runs straight past fields shimmering in the heat.The best time to go is the dry season, from November to April, when the trails stay firm underfoot and hiking feels easy, furthermore there’s no set entry fee, though they’re cheerful to accept a donation-drop a few coins in the tin if you’d like.When visiting the temple, it’s best to wear modest clothing-think covered shoulders and a skirt or pants that fall below the knee, and climbing Difficulty: It’s a steep 500-step trek, so bring water, wear comfortable shoes, and shield yourself from the sun’s glare.Oudong Mountain blends history, spirituality, and sweeping views, with ancient stupas that whisper Cambodia’s royal past and Buddhist traditions-an easy, rewarding day trip from Phnom Penh.
Author: Tourist Landmarks
Date: 2025-09-15
