Discover Oudong, Cambodia’s Forgotten Royal Capital

Nestled just 40 kilometers northwest of Phnom Penh, Oudong—also spelled Udong or Udong—is one of Cambodia’s most underrated travel destinations. Once the proud royal capital of the Kingdom of Cambodia between the 17th and 19th centuries, this sacred hilltop town now offers a soul-stirring escape into the country’s spiritual and historical heart.

If you’re looking for a peaceful day trip from Phnom Penh or an immersive dive into Khmer heritage, Oudong is the perfect blend of history, nature, and serenity.

Why Visit Oudong, Cambodia?

Oudong isn’t your typical tourist hotspot—yet that’s precisely its charm. With panoramic mountain views, golden stupas, ancient relics, and a sense of mysticism that lingers in the air, Oudong feels like a hidden sanctuary far from the hustle of Phnom Penh.

From spiritual pilgrims to history buffs, solo backpackers to culture-loving couples, Oudong welcomes travelers with open arms and a touch of old-world magic. For your next travel to Cambodia, don’t miss the best gay friendly hotels in Oudong.

A Brief History of Oudong

Founded in 1601 by King Srei Soryopor, Oudong served as the royal capital of Cambodia for over 250 years. During its reign, the city was home to many kings and witnessed turbulent shifts in Cambodian politics, from wars with Siam and Vietnam to internal power struggles.

Though the capital was eventually moved to Phnom Penh in the 1860s, Oudong remained an important religious and spiritual site. Many Khmer kings’ ashes are enshrined in the stupas that still stand tall on Phnom Preah Reach Troap, the royal hill of Oudong in Cambodia.

Top Things to See and Do in Oudong

1. Phnom Preah Reach Troap (Oudong Hill)

The main attraction in Oudong is Phnom Preah Reach Troap, a sacred ridge that stretches across the landscape like the spine of a dragon. Climb the nearly 500 steps to the top and you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Cambodian countryside and a complex of ornate stupas and pagodas, including:

• The Stupa of King Ang Duong

• The Stupa of King Monivong

• The Silver Stupa

• Preah Sakyamuni Chedi, housing a relic of the Buddha’s bones

Each stupa glistens under the tropical sun, surrounded by fluttering prayer flags and the gentle chanting of monks. It’s not just a photo opportunity—it’s a moment of spiritual transcendence.

2. Vipassana Dhura Buddhist Meditation Center

Oudong is also home to one of Cambodia’s largest meditation centers: the Vipassana Dhura Buddhist Center. Built in the modern era but rooted in ancient Theravada traditions, this complex features massive statues of the Buddha, meticulously landscaped gardens, and halls designed for deep meditation and retreat.

Open to both visitors and long-term practitioners, it’s a place of silence, reflection, and spiritual growth.

3. The Farmhouse Resort & Spa

If you’re seeking a tranquil base to stay overnight, the Farmhouse Resort & Spa offers a unique fusion of eco-luxury and Khmer countryside charm. Located just outside Oudong, this gay-friendly resort is surrounded by rice fields and lotus ponds. Think: infinity pools, Khmer-style cottages, and massages under palm trees. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of temple-hopping and soul-searching. The Farmhouse Resort & Spa are the great hotel for your next travel around Oudong.

How to Get to Oudong from Phnom Penh

Getting to Oudong is easy and scenic. Here are your main options:

• By Taxi or Private Car: A 1-hour ride (or less) from Phnom Penh via National Road 5. Ideal for comfort and flexibility.

• By Motorbike: For adventurous souls, renting a motorbike gives you total freedom to explore. Just make sure you’re comfortable with Cambodia’s road conditions.

• By Tuk-tuk: A slower but charming option. Expect about 1.5 to 2 hours each way.

There are no direct buses or train routes, which is part of what keeps Oudong so blissfully uncrowded.

Best Time to Visit Oudong

The best time to explore Oudong is during the cool dry season, from November to February. The skies are clear, the humidity is manageable, and the sunsets over the hills are pure gold. Morning visits are ideal to beat the heat and capture the magical fog that lingers around the stupas.

Here’s a simple climate overview:

What to Wear and Bring

Oudong is a spiritual site, so dress respectfully:

• Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees

• Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat

• Good walking shoes for the temple steps

• A camera (you’ll want to capture those panoramic views)

And don’t forget a smile—it goes a long way with locals.

Is Oudong Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Oudong offers something increasingly rare: authentic Cambodian spirituality without crowds or gimmicks. You’ll feel the weight of history in the stones, the peace of prayer in the air, and the slow rhythm of rural life humming all around you.

For those yearning for more than just temple ruins, Oudong is a living, breathing monument to Cambodia’s royal past and spiritual resilience.