The short answer
Silver Pagoda: what visitors should know first
Yes, if you are visiting the Royal Palace, since it is within the same compound. Dress modestly, remove shoes where asked, and expect only a small area of the silver floor to be visible.
History and context
The story behind Silver Pagoda
King Norodom founded the temple in the 19th century. During the reign of King Norodom Sihanouk, before the Khmer Rouge, the pagoda was inlaid with silver tiles and some outer facades were remodelled with Italian marble. The temple was renamed in 1947, when Sihanouk was ordained there.
The 5,329 silver tiles weigh a little over a tonne in total. The origin of the Emerald Buddha is disputed.
Useful facts
Silver Pagoda facts at a glance
- Location
- South side of the Royal Palace compound
- Faith
- Theravada Buddhism
- Deity/dedication
- Emerald-Crystal Buddha
- Visitor note
- Shoes off, shoulders and knees covered, quiet voices
- Built
- 19th century under King Norodom
Why it matters
Why Silver Pagoda is worth your time
The Silver Pagoda is the royal chapel and one of Cambodia's most important temples, closely tied to the monarchy and to Khmer Buddhism. Its official name, Wat Preah Keo Morakot, means the Temple of the Emerald-Crystal Buddha, and kings have used it for ceremonies since the 19th century.
For travellers it is a compact way to see Khmer royal craftsmanship and the surviving treasures from a period when much heritage was lost. The silver floor is partly hidden to protect it, which is a useful reminder that this is a working religious site and not only a museum.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Silver floor
5,329 silver tiles, with only a small area uncovered for visitors.
- 02
Emerald Buddha
A small green crystal image, the temple's most revered object.
- 03
Gold Maitreya
A near life-sized gold Buddha cast in the early 1900s.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Enter from the palace courtyard and slip off your shoes at the door. The hall is cool and dim compared with the courtyard. Only a small part of the silver floor is uncovered for visitors, so look for the gap and the carpet edges, then turn to the cases around the room.
The collection includes around 1,650 objects in gold, silver, bronze and precious stones, plus a small green crystal Emerald Buddha that is the temple's most revered image. A near life-sized Maitreya Buddha cast in gold stands nearby, set with thousands of diamonds, though Wikipedia notes that the statue lost most of its diamonds after the civil war.
Take a few quiet minutes with the Emerald Buddha before you leave. Sit, if you do, with your feet pointing away from the images, and speak softly. The compound's other pagoda buildings and gardens are close by for a short walk.
Plan with confidence
Visit as a guest, not a spectator.
- Wear slip-on shoes
- Cover shoulders and knees
- Follow photography signs
- Visit together with the Royal Palace
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Southern side of the Royal Palace compound, Chey Chumneas
- Time needed
- About 45 minutes to 1 hour
- Best time
- Morning, November to February
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- The path is short and level, with a few steps up to the hall. Shoes come off at the door, so wear slip-ons and mind hot paving outside.
- Tickets and access
- Entry is usually included with the Royal Palace ticket, but check on the day. Cover shoulders and knees; photography rules inside change, so follow posted signs.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Silver Pagoda
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The path is short and level, with a few steps up to the hall. Shoes come off at the door, so wear slip-ons and mind hot paving outside.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Is the Silver Pagoda inside the palace?
Yes, it stands on the southern side of the Royal Palace compound.
Can I see the silver floor?
Only a small area is uncovered for visitors.
Is it suitable for older relatives?
Yes, it is short and level, though shoes come off and the courtyard outside is hot.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
