Explore the Russian Market in Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s bustling bazaar! Discover top finds, cultural tips, costs, and Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours for a vibrant, green shopping adventure. Dive into Khmer culture and book your tour now!
The Russian Market, locally known as Psar Tuol Tom Poung, is Phnom Penh’s most iconic bazaar, renowned for its vibrant maze of stalls offering everything from Khmer handicrafts to street food, drawing millions to its lively atmosphere in the Chamkarmon district. Named for its popularity among Russian expatriates in the 1980s, this market is a treasure trove of souvenirs, clothing, and local delicacies, making it a must-visit for cultural enthusiasts, bargain hunters, and eco-travelers. Accessible via a 240 km bus from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh (6–7 hours, $15–$35 or 375,000–875,000 VND/60,000–140,000 KHR), the Russian Market offers an authentic glimpse into Cambodia’s bustling commerce and cultural heritage.
Visiting the Russian Market supports sustainable tourism by engaging local artisans and eco-conscious vendors, aligning with Cambodia’s initiatives like sustainable craft cooperatives. Legend Travel Group, Southeast Asia’s leading sustainable tourism ambassador with over 17 years of expertise, integrates the Russian Market into eco-tours for a planet-friendly experience. Contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com to explore the Russian Market with sustainability and cultural respect!
Located at the corner of Street 163 and Street 440, the Russian Market (open 7:00 AM–5:00 PM) is a vibrant hub in Phnom Penh’s Toul Tum Poung area, easily reached by eco-tuk-tuks or bicycles, fostering authentic, green shopping experiences.
Legend Travel Group excels as the region’s premier local travel curator, dedicated to unveiling Vietnam, Cambodia, and Southeast Asia’s treasures through safe, eco-conscious journeys. Our Russian Market tours feature sustainable transport, expert guides on Khmer culture, and initiatives supporting local artisans and ecosystems. Specialists provide insights on the Russian Market in Phnom Penh, bargaining etiquette, and green shopping practices for harmonious adventures. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before, and 24/7 support, we ensure seamless exploration. Register a free account on our platform to save market itineraries, plan eco-focused shopping trips, and receive fresh updates—enhancing your Phnom Penh adventure!
The Russian Market in Phnom Penh offers a vibrant shopping experience, blending Khmer crafts, street food, and cultural immersion, fostering authentic connections with local vendors. Here’s your guide to this iconic market:
Cultural Etiquette for the Russian Market:
Greetings: Use “sok sabay” (hello) or a smile; engage warmly with vendors.
Dress: Casual, lightweight attire; scarf ($4 or 16,000 KHR) respects Khmer norms in crowded spaces.
Behavior: Bargain politely (20–30% off starting prices); avoid loud voices; respect vendor space.
Eco-Advice: Use reusable bags ($3 or 12,000 KHR); support artisans with sustainable practices.
Tip: Learn “arkun” (thank you); carry small USD/KHR notes for purchases.
Top Finds at the Russian Market:
Handicrafts: Silk scarves, wooden carvings, silver jewelry; $3–$10 (12,000–40,000 KHR). Look for handwoven items from local cooperatives.
Tip: Bargain gently; check for authentic Khmer designs.
Clothing: Elephant pants, T-shirts, knock-off brands; $2–$8 (8,000–32,000 KHR). Ideal for casual souvenirs.
Tip: Buy in bulk for discounts; try roadside stalls for better deals.
Street Food: Khmer iced coffee, grilled bananas, fried insects; $1–$3 (4,000–12,000 KHR). Mr. Bounnareth’s coffee stall is a must-visit.
Tip: Try spicy cricket for a bold experience; avoid meat stalls if sensitive to smells.
Antiques and Art: Angkor Wat replicas, traditional paintings; $5–$20 (20,000–80,000 KHR). Verify authenticity with vendors.
Tip: Ideal for unique gifts; handle items carefully.
Household Goods: Kitchenware, lamps; $3–$15 (12,000–60,000 KHR). Great for practical souvenirs.
Tip: Explore deeper aisles for hidden gems.
Market Tips:
Navigation: Market is a maze; start at Street 163 entrance; use offline maps (Maps.me, pin “Russian Market, Phnom Penh, Cambodia”).
Timing: Visit early (7:00 AM–10:00 AM) for cooler weather and fresher produce; avoid midday heat.
Eco-Tip: Support vendors with organic or recycled goods; avoid plastic packaging.
Tip: Carry small change (USD/KHR); expect crowded aisles; stay hydrated with bottled water ($1 or 4,000 KHR).
Legend Travel Group tours include guided market visits with eco-conscious practices.
Note: Prices and offerings reflect current market trends; verify seasonal updates. Our tours enhance with sustainable practices.
These budget-friendly, eco-activities, $0–$10, complement your market visit:
Bargain for silk scarves and carvings, $3–$10 (12,000–40,000 KHR).
Cost: $3–$10.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Support local artisans; use reusable bags ($3 or 12,000 KHR).
Tip: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Market Eco-Tour ($45–$85).
Savor iced coffee and fried insects, $1–$3 (4,000–12,000 KHR).
Cost: $1–$3.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Choose vendors with sustainable practices.
Tip: Part of Legend Travel Group’s Street Food Eco-Dine ($40–$80).
Reflect on history, 2 km away, entry $5 (20,000 KHR).
Cost: $5.
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Cycle ($2 or 8,000 KHR) or e-tuk-tuk ($3 or 12,000 KHR).
Tip: In Legend Travel Group’s History Eco-Visit ($45–$85).
Discover a serene pagoda, 2.5 km away, entry $0–$1 (0–4,000 KHR).
Cost: $0–$1.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Walk or cycle ($2 or 8,000 KHR).
Tip: Featured in Legend Travel Group’s Temple Eco-Walk ($35–$75).
Enjoy Mediterranean-Khmer fusion, 0.2 km away, $5–$8 (20,000–32,000 KHR).
Cost: $5–$8.
Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Locally sourced ingredients.
Tip: Highlight of Legend Travel Group’s Culinary Eco-Dine ($40–$80).
November to March offers mild weather (20–30°C) for comfortable market shopping and outdoor dining, ideal for cultural immersion. Avoid April-May heat or June-October rains for easier navigation; February or May balances pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
The Russian Market is accessible via:
By Bus: Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh (6–7 hours, $15–$35 or 60,000–140,000 KHR), then e-tuk-tuk to market ($3–$5 or 12,000–20,000 KHR).
By Air: Flights to Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) ($40–$150 or 160,000–600,000 KHR), then eco-taxi ($7–$10 or 28,000–40,000 KHR, 20–30 minutes).
By Local Transport: E-bikes ($5–$8/day or 20,000–32,000 KHR) or bicycles ($2 or 8,000 KHR) from Phnom Penh’s Riverside or BKK1. Navigation Tip: Pin “Russian Market, Phnom Penh, Cambodia” in offline apps (Maps.me). Parking: $0.50–$1 (2,000–4,000 KHR).
Eco-Friendly Note: E-bikes or bicycles reduce emissions.
Travel Tip: Morning arrivals ensure fresh market finds.
Pack for a vibrant, sustainable market adventure:
Documents: Passport, Cambodia visa ($36 or 144,000 KHR); wallet ($8–$12 or 32,000–48,000 KHR).
Clothing: Lightweight, comfortable attire; scarf ($4 or 16,000 KHR) for respect.
Essentials: Reusable water bottle ($5 or 20,000 KHR); snacks ($1–$3 or 4,000–12,000 KHR).
Tech: Phone with offline maps; charger ($15–$25 or 60,000–100,000 KHR); SIM ($7–$10 or 28,000–40,000 KHR).
Eco Items: Reusable tote ($3 or 12,000 KHR); phrase card ($2 or 8,000 KHR).
Extras: Small USD/KHR for purchases; hat ($4 or 16,000 KHR) for sun protection. Tip: Carry reusable bags for eco-friendly shopping.
Transport Costs
Bus to Phnom Penh: $15–$35 (60,000–140,000 KHR).
E-Tuk-Tuk: $3–$5 (12,000–20,000 KHR).
E-Bike: $5–$8/day (20,000–32,000 KHR).
Visa & Market Costs
Cambodia Visa: $36 (144,000 KHR).
Market Purchases: $1–$20 (4,000–80,000 KHR).
Activity Fees
Handicrafts: $3–$10 (12,000–40,000 KHR).
Street Food: $1–$3 (4,000–12,000 KHR).
Tuol Sleng: $5 (20,000 KHR).
Wat Langka: $0–$1 (0–4,000 KHR).
Elia Greek Kitchen: $5–$8 (20,000–32,000 KHR).
Souvenirs: $3–$7 (12,000–28,000 KHR).
Eco-Tour: $20–$35 (80,000–140,000 KHR).
Total Daily Cost (Per Person, Market-Focused)
Budget: $25–$45 (e-tuk-tuk, street food, souvenirs).
Mid-Range: $50–$80 (e-bike, market, museum).
Luxury: $100–$150 (taxi, upscale dining, private tour). Tip: Transport $3–$35; visa $36; market $1–$20; eco-tours add value.
Etiquette: Use “sok sabay”; bargain politely; respect vendor space.
Transport Choices: E-bikes for affordability; e-tuk-tuks for convenience.
Schedules: Morning visits (7:00 AM–10:00 AM) for fresh goods; avoid midday heat.
Sustainability: Support eco-vendors; use reusable bags.
Navigation: Market to sites via e-tuk-tuk ($3–$5 or 12,000–20,000 KHR).
Weather: Dry season (November–March) for comfortable shopping.
Cultural Note: Engage respectfully with vendors; avoid aggressive bargaining.
Legend Tours: Market and eco-briefings included.
Explore the Russian Market with our eco-tours:
Market Eco-Tour ($45–$85/person, half day): Guided Russian Market visit with eco-snack ($1–$3 or 4,000–12,000 KHR). Guide, bargaining tips included.
Street Food Eco-Dine ($40–$80/person, half day): Khmer food tasting, sustainable vendors.
Phnom Penh Cultural Explorer ($280–$400/person, 4 days): Multi-site tour with eco-lodges, meals, green transfers. Prices include guides, sustainable logistics, entries. 25% off for groups of 4+! Register a free account to track, save, and tailor your Phnom Penh itinerary.
The Russian Market in Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s vibrant bazaar, offers a colorful array of handicrafts, street food, and cultural immersion, accessible via eco-friendly transport ($3–$35 or 12,000–140,000 KHR). This bustling market fosters sustainable, respectful exploration with local artisans and vendors. Legend Travel Group’s Phnom Penh Tours guide you through this lively hub, ensuring a sustainable Phnom Penh Travel experience that deepens connections to Cambodia’s cultural heritage. Create your free account to monitor guides, design vibrant itineraries, and explore further—reach out at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com for your sustainable Phnom Penh adventure!
Ready to dive into the vibrant Russian Market in Phnom Penh? Reserve your eco-friendly tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable cultural journey!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
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