Located near the bustling riverside in central Phnom Penh, Wat Ounalom is one of Cambodia’s most important and historic pagodas. Reputedly the oldest of the five original temples established when Phnom Penh first became the capital in the early 15th century, it remains a vital center of Buddhist faith, education, and cultural identity. 

A Living Spiritual Center

Founded in 1443, Wat Ounalom is the official headquarters of the Cambodian Buddhist patriarchate and consists of 44 individual structures within its grounds. It continues to play an active role in Cambodian spiritual life as the residence of the Supreme Patriarch (the head of the Buddhist order), a functioning monastery, and a teaching center where monks study and preserve Buddhist teachings. For local worshippers and visitors alike, it serves as a sanctuary of peace amid the city’s busy streets.

Highlights of the Pagoda

The temple complex holds several significant landmarks. A statue of Samdech Huot Tat, the revered fourth patriarch of Cambodian Buddhism who was executed during the Khmer Rouge era, stands as a solemn reminder of resilience and sacrifice.

Behind the main temple building is a sacred stupa said to contain an eyebrow hair of the Buddha, making Wat Ounalom an important pilgrimage site for the faithful. The peaceful courtyards, traditional Khmer architecture, and centuries-old religious art further enrich the atmosphere for visitors.