Phnom Penh Travel Guide - Museums & Galleries

National Museum: is situated close to the Royal Palace, in an attractive traditionally designed building. The museum was founded in 1920 and contains a range of artefacts from all over the country, detailing Khmer history. The museum consists of four courtyards and a number of impressive statues, including the most famous statue, of Vishnu as well as that of Jayavarman VII, perhaps the most important piece in the museum. Phlauv 178. Open: 08:00 to 11:00 and 14:00 to 17:30, daily.

Apsara Gallery: is situated opposite the Royal Palace, displays original works by the local artist Asasax. Asasax's style is a blend of traditional Khmer and modern styles and most of his pieces are elaborate and colourful works of Cambodian sights, such as Angkor Wat. Colour is a real theme in his work and Asasax himself describes colour as 'necessary for human life, as without colour people die'. It's not a large gallery, but it's certainly an interesting place to visit. 192 Phlauv 178. Open: 09:00-19:00, daily.

Reyum Gallery: is an NGO dedicated to Cambodia Arts and Culture and was founded in 1998 to promote the work of modern Cambodian artists. The gallery displays a range of exhibitions from local artists and the programme changes regularly. The exhibitions are often thought-provoking, with some interesting displays in the past about rural life in Cambodia. They produce printed catalogues for those who can't afford to buy the works themselves. The Reyum Gallery is located opposite the National Museum. 47 Phlauv 178. Open: 07:00-18:00, daily.

Happy Painting Gallery: is an art gallery and shop in the exclusive Hotel Le Royal that displays art by Stephane Delapree, a French artist living in Phnom Penh. The works show a variety of aspects of Cambodian life, and the gallery also sell postcards of the most notable works. 92 Rukhak Vithei, Hotel Le Royal. Open: 07:00-22:00, daily.