Investigating the Russian Market Phnom Penh: The complete guide to buying
Locally referred to as “Psar Tuol Tom Pong,” the Russian Market Phnom Penh is a lively and busy place to shop in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. It provides a distinctive and varied shopping experience, offering a large selection of products ranging from apparel and accessories to trinkets and regional handicrafts. We’ll give you a thorough rundown of Russian Market Phnom Penh shopping in this piece, along with advice on how to get the most out of your trip.
Overview of Russian Market Phnom Penh
Russian Market Phnom Penh
In Cambodia, the Russian Market Phnom Penh is the most well-liked market. The name came from how well-liked it was by Russian exiles in the 1980s when a lot of Moscow’s Cold War supplies were kept in stock.
Situated at the southern tip of the French Quarter, the market is a must-see for first-time guests; it’s vibrant, bustling, and soon to provide thousands of items that you won’t need or purchase, but you’ll love idling around and taking in the sights. Although the market is vast and intimidating, it is fascinating to do a thorough investigation. Products range from DVDs and jewelry to hand-woven silk, cuisine, drinks, antique furniture, and traditional carvings. Everything can be difficult to navigate, but our guide will walk you through everything. Every aisle and stall will offer something unique, so allow yourself at least an hour to explore them all.
For souvenir shops, it is open from 7:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. Thus, if you’re sick of visiting different temples, come here to learn more about the way of life of the locals. Ask about taking a tour of this distinctive Phnom Penh market! The Royal Palace, Wat Phnom, the National Museum, and the Tuol Sleng Museum are all nearby tourist destinations that you shouldn’t miss and are all conveniently located for access with our private van.
How to reach the Russian Market Phnom Penh?
The Russian Market Phnom Penh is just 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) away from the international airport in Phnom Penh. Tuk-tuks and taxis from the airport cost roughly $6 and $7, respectively, to practically all parts of Phnom Penh, including the Russian Market. If there is no traffic on the route, it takes slightly more than thirty minutes to get from the airport.
It’s advisable to inform cab and tuk-tuk drivers that the market is known locally as Tuol Tom Poung Market, even though the majority of them are aware that the market is known globally as the “Russian Market.” You should haggle over the fare before boarding a tuk-tuk because some drivers may try to take advantage of visitors when they get to their destination.
Proceed toward the Woori Finance Cambodia PLC Office from the airport, and then make a right turn into Street 2004. Proceed straight ahead and subsequently bear left to approach Duong Ngeap Street II. Proceed along this street and bear left to reach Goal Sports Club and Mekong Football Field. To get to Street 82C, cross these two landmarks. Proceed down the route and make the turn into Street 430. Make a left at Street 432 and a right again at Street 163. The market would be to your left.
While visiting Cambodia, schedule a visit to the Russian market Phnom Penh to experience the essence of the nation.
What does the Russian Market Phnom Penh have?
Due to its wide selection of goods, Russian Market Phnom Penh is well-liked by both residents and visitors. The market is primarily well-known for its souvenirs and handicrafts. Traditional Cambodian goods that are available to tourists include silver jewelry, silk scarves, and finely carved wooden figures. It’s a fantastic location to buy unusual presents or goods that honor Cambodia’s rich cultural legacy.
Russian Market Phnom Penh has a wide selection of goods
There is a clothing section in the market as well, where you can get reasonably priced brand-name items from places. These products are frequently sampled or overstocked from well-known multinational brands. There are also booths offering a window into Cambodia’s past and culture that sell antiques and artwork, such as traditional Khmer artwork, statues, and vintage treasures.
In addition, there are sellers in the market offering cheap gadgets in addition to pirated CDs and DVDs. Kiosks are selling fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, and spices in the food sector, which is especially colorful. Additionally, street food sellers are offering authentic Cambodian fare such as grilled meats and noodle soups, giving visitors the chance to sample regional cuisine. Lastly, the market is a one-stop shop offering a wide range of household goods, including kitchenware and other domestic things.
Things to do when visiting Russian Market Phnom Penh
You really must visit this market if you are going to be in Cambodia. Here’s a quick rundown of things to do when exploring the bustling Russian Market Phnom Penh streets.
Try Khmer Coffee
The Khmer coffee
This region’s predominant flavor is sweet, just like that of the Khmer people. The Khmer coffee may taste unexpectedly sweet at first drink, so if you’re not as sweet-toothed as the Cambodians, be sure to savor it slowly. To experience coffee in the Khmer style, you must taste one of the iced coffee variants offered at Mr. Bounnareth’s coffee stall. Every day, travelers search the Russian Market for this kiosk, which serves some of the best-iced coffee in all of Cambodia.
- The store can be found by looking for an energetic man in a coffee shop; this is M. Bounnareth’s stand. Asking the nearby stores to show you the booth is another option.
- Tasting notes: Here, taste the real Khmer iced coffee.
Buy some ceramic & woodwork
Buy some ceramic in Russian Market Phnom Penh
The great diversity and vast range of products offered here are well-known characteristics of the Russian market. As with other Southeast Asian markets, you can find practically everything here. The wooden and ceramic artifacts continue to be the main draws of the Russian market. Fine examples of Angkor Wat replicas are available; these are a well-liked option for mementos.
- The market is known locally as Toul Tom Poung Market.
- Opening Hours: Every day from 6:30 a.m. until 5 p.m., the Russian Market is open.
- Additional Items for Purchase: artifacts, regional handicrafts, silk clothing, T-shirts, Khmer scarves, etc. are available.
Taste the grilled bananas
Taste the grilled bananas
Tropical regions are home to an abundance of bananas. Since Cambodia is a typical tropical country, it produces an abundance of this fruit. When a food item is widely available in an area, people always attempt to use it in a variety of cuisines and recipes. In Cambodia, bananas are no different. The Khmer people adore grilled bananas. No doubt many of the guests will be unfamiliar with the concept. Therefore, be sure to sample one from the Russian Market’s wayside stalls.
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Buy Elephant Pants
Buy Elephant Pants
Although they may seem absurd, elephant pants are among the most popular goods in Cambodian marketplaces. There are many racks stocked with this assortment of clothing if you visit the Russian Market Phnom Penh. These pants are very popular since they fit well, are simple to wear, have a casual aesthetic, and are reasonably priced.
- Extra advice: To receive further savings, consider buying in quantity. These trousers make thoughtful gifts for friends.
- Where to buy: Purchase from roadside stands where you have more room to negotiate.
Taste the fried insects
Taste the fried insects
In addition to sending shivers down many people’s spines and causing an adrenaline rush, insects are renowned for being nutrient-rich. When visiting Cambodia, be sure to sample the well-known assortment of snacks available here. The Khmer people enjoy eating fried insects because they are a good source of nutrition. These eerie creatures have been adding taste and nutrition to the locals’ snack plates ever since the Khmer Rouge period. The Russian Market has numerous delicious varieties to choose from.
- Available varieties include silkworm and cricket.
- Available flavors include crunchy, juicy, chewy, spicy, and non-spicy.
Try the Fried insects
Taste the fried insects
In addition to sending shivers down many people’s spines and causing an adrenaline rush, insects are renowned for being nutrient-rich. When visiting Cambodia, be sure to sample the well-known assortment of snacks available here. The Khmer people enjoy eating fried insects because they are a good source of nutrition. These eerie creatures have been adding taste and nutrition to the locals’ snack plates ever since the Khmer Rouge period. The Russian Market has numerous delicious varieties to choose from.
- Available varieties include silkworm and cricket.
- Available flavors include crunchy, juicy, chewy, spicy, and non-spicy.
Discover antiques and art
Discover antiques and art
The Russian Market Phnom Penh has an amazing selection of antiques and traditional Khmer art for individuals who enjoy both history and art. Venetian objects, antiquated monuments, and traditional artwork are on display at stalls, offering insights into Cambodia’s history and customs. If you take your time looking through these things, you might come upon a special antique or piece of art that relates to the rich cultural history of Cambodia.
Photography
The vibrant stalls, bustling lanes, and lively scenery of the market make for amazing photo ops. Through your camera lens, capture the essence of the market by concentrating on the active interactions among consumers, the vendors’ expressions, and the bright displays of items. Always be courteous and get someone’s permission before taking a close-up picture of them.
Browse Electronics and DVDs
Browse Electronics and DVDs
In addition, there are vendors at the market offering goods, including devices and accessories, at lower costs than they would in physical stores. In addition, pirated CDs and DVDs are available, however, their legitimacy and quality can differ. This area of the market has a variety of products that can catch your attention if technology or entertainment are your areas of interest.
Relax and Refresh
Take a break from the bustle of the market and unwind with a cold beverage or light food. Fruit juices and coconut water are popular drinks offered by food vendors, and they can provide a much-needed break from the heat of the market. Having a cozy place to relax and rejuvenate can improve your whole market experience.
Learn about Cambodian culture
Talk to the merchants to learn more about Cambodian customs and culture. A lot of sellers are delighted to tell tales about their experiences, the cultural relevance of their crafts, and their items. This conversation improves your visit to the market and gives you a deeper grasp of Cambodian history.
Vibrant Phnom Penh’s heart is what Vietnam Allure Travel offers! Discover traditional Cambodian arts and crafts, sample real local cuisine, and become fully immersed in the vibrant local culture on one of our guided visits to the famous Russian Market. Enjoy finding great deals on vintage apparel, souvenirs, and antiques while learning important information from our knowledgeable guides. Make a reservation with us right now to experience Phnom Penh’s vibrant market scene like never before!
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