Things To Do
in Svay Pak
Svay Pak is a neighborhood in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, located northeast of the city center. It carries a layered history as a former red-light district and today blends residential life with local markets, temples, and small cafes. The area offers a window into everyday Phnom Penh away from the main tourist hubs, with lively street life and approachable eateries.
Visitors should approach with sensitivity to its history and respect for local customs.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Svay Pak and settle into your accommodations. Take some time to familiarize yourself with the local area and appreciate the landscape. Enjoy a traditional Cambodian breakfast at a nearby café.
Explore the vibrant market where locals sell goods, such as fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with local vendors to learn about their daily lives and the culture of Svay Pak. Take photographs to capture the essence of this lively community.
As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional Khmer dinner at a local restaurant. Experience the warmth of Cambodian hospitality and sample delicacies like amok and lok lak. Wind down by taking a leisurely stroll through the town under the stars.
Visit the local pagoda to observe morning rituals and gain insight into the spiritual culture of Cambodia. Participate in a meditation session led by a resident monk. Share breakfast with the locals, learning about their traditions and lifestyle.
Attend a workshop on traditional handicrafts, where you can learn to create a piece of art by following local artisans. This hands-on experience allows you to connect with the community and understand their skills. Spend the rest of the afternoon in the countryside, enjoying the lush landscapes.
Return to the village and enjoy a meal with a local family, gaining a deeper understanding of their culinary practices. Share stories and laughter, enriching your experience in Svay Pak. Later, join a cultural performance showcasing traditional dance and music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🥗Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🧋Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🚕Tuk-tuk ride (short trip) | $2-5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible from Phnom Penh with a calm, local atmosphere
- Affordable street food and markets
- Opportunity to see everyday life away from major tourist hubs
- Limited nightlife within Svay Pak itself
- History of the area requires respectful handling of sensitive topics
- "សួស្តី" - Hello
- "អរគុណ" - Thank you
- "សូម" - Please
- "បាទ" - Yes (male)
- "ចាស" - Yes (female) / OK
- "ទេ" - No
- "ខ្ញុំមិនយល់ទេ" - I don't understand
Places to Visit in Svay Pak
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic temple on a small hill offering city views, tranquil grounds, and opportunities for contemplative photography.
Boardwalk along the Tonle Sap and Mekong with sunset silhouettes, boat activity, and lively street life as a dynamic backdrop.
Iconic Art Deco architecture provides a striking subject for exterior shots, especially during golden hour.
Colorful storefronts, motorbikes, and people at work make for vibrant street photography.
Food in Svay Pak
Svay Pak Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Coconut milk-based fish curry steamed in banana leaves, fragrant with lemongrass and kaffir lime.
Must-Try!
Marinated beef stir-fried with onions and pepper, served with rice and a lime-pepper dipping sauce.
Noodle soup with pork or beef, herbs, lime, and a savory broth; a favorite breakfast option.
Rice noodles with a fish gravy and fresh herbs; typically enjoyed for breakfast or lunch.
Grilled pork served over broken rice, a common and comforting breakfast or quick lunch.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Iconic Art Deco market offering fresh produce, seafood, and a variety of street-food stalls nearby.
A hub for clothing, souvenirs, and affordable Cambodian street food; ideal for a casual lunch and people-watching.
A lively spot for snacks, grilled skewers, and inexpensive bites after sundown.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering sacred spaces, and speak softly in temple areas.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in private settings; avoid taking photos of locals in sensitive situations without consent.
Safety
Tipping in Svay Pak
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; leave 5-10% at restaurants if service charge isn’t included.
Cash (US dollars and Cambodian riel) is widely accepted; many places in Phnom Penh take cards, especially hotels and larger restaurants; ATMs are common in central areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cooler mornings and evenings; great for outdoor exploring and photography with clearer skies.
Very hot daytime temperatures; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon; stay hydrated.
Frequent tropical downpours; lush greenery and dramatic skies, but expect occasional floods on some streets and humidity.
Svay Pak at Night
Hiking in Svay Pak
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested park with pine groves and hiking trails; accessible on day trips from Phnom Penh.
Hilltop temple with surrounding trails and scenic viewpoints; a popular day excursion from Phnom Penh.
Airports
How to reach Svay Pak by plane.
Main international airport serving Phnom Penh; about 10-20 km from the city center; taxis and ride-hailing services are available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant ethnic group, with minority communities including Chinese, Vietnamese, and Cham Muslims.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local leagues and casual play are common.
A traditional Southeast Asian sport, often played in parks and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Svay Pak.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Khmer dishes use fish sauce and shrimp paste; look for vegetable curries, freshwater plant-based dishes, and request flavor adjustments (no fish sauce or meat) when ordering. Communicate clearly with restaurant staff about ingredients if you follow a strict vegetarian or vegan diet.