The short answer
Russian Market (Psar Toul Tom Poung): what visitors should know first
Worth it if you want to shop for crafts and clothes. It is hot, cramped and uneven, so go in the morning, bargain politely and keep your bag in front.
History and context
The story behind Russian Market (Psar Toul Tom Poung)
A travel guide records that the nickname comes from the 1980s, when Russians living in the city shopped here. The market's formal name is Psar Toul Tom Poung.
Useful facts
Russian Market (Psar Toul Tom Poung) facts at a glance
- Location
- Toul Tom Poung, south-west of the centre
- Experience type
- Covered market
- Known for
- Silk, crafts, clothing, antiques
- Name origin
- Nickname from the 1980s
- Good for
- Souvenir shopping
Why it matters
Why Russian Market (Psar Toul Tom Poung) is worth your time
The market is a favourite for visitors who like to hunt for handicrafts and clothing. It is also a reminder that Phnom Penh trades in many goods, from silver and silk to second-hand books.
The name dates to the 1980s, when many Russian expatriates shopped here, according to a travel guide. It is a city market where locals and visitors mix, so it gives a better picture of daily life than a souvenir shop.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Silk and cotton scarves
Good gifts that are easy to pack.
- 02
Factory-second clothing
Bargain clothing, so check for faults.
- 03
Food court
Simple stalls inside the market.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Ask your driver to take you to the market and agree a pick-up point before you go in. Start in the clothing aisles, where many items are factory seconds with small faults, so check seams and zips. Then move to the craft and silk stalls, where scarves and cotton goods are easier to judge.
Keep your bag in front, walk slowly, and take breaks. A food court area offers simple Khmer dishes, but vegetarian and Jain visitors should be careful about broth and fish sauce, and may prefer to eat elsewhere.
Bargain with a smile and offer about half the first price to start. If you plan to buy several items, go to one stall that offers a bundle price rather than visiting many. Leave when the heat gets heavy, usually by late morning.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Go in the morning
- Agree a pick-up point
- Bargain politely
- Beware of fake branded goods
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Toul Tom Poung area, south-west of the city centre
- Time needed
- About 1 to 1.5 hours
- Best time
- Morning
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- The aisles are narrow, hot and crowded, with uneven floors. It is tiring for older visitors; go early and keep the visit short or send a younger family member to shop.
- Tickets and access
- Entry is free. Prices are negotiable. A travel guide warns of fake watches and pirated goods, so buy only what you can judge, and ask for receipts for valuables.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Russian Market (Psar Toul Tom Poung)
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The aisles are narrow, hot and crowded, with uneven floors. It is tiring for older visitors; go early and keep the visit short or send a younger family member to shop.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Why is it called the Russian Market?
A travel guide says the name dates from the 1980s.
Is it good for older relatives?
It is hot and cramped; consider skipping it or going early.
Is it safe?
Generally, but watch bags and phones.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.