Central Market Market
Large art-deco indoor market in Phnom Penh
Locals refer to the Central Market as Psar Thmei, which means “New Market” so as not to confuse it with the now “Old Market.” Now the main market in Phnom Penh, the Central Market isn’t quite the “Wal-Mart” that Siem Reap’s main market is, but its a beautiful building with products that satisfy both local and visiting shopper needs.
About Central Market#
The Central Market - known to locals as Psar Thmei, or “New Market” - is the principal market of Phnom Penh and one of the city’s most striking buildings. Beneath its great domed hall and four radiating wings, stalls sell everything from gold, silver, and gemstones to watches, electronics, clothing, flowers, and fresh food, serving locals and visitors alike. Cleaner, cooler, and far easier to navigate than the city’s other markets, it sits right in the centre of Phnom Penh, making it an easy stop while exploring the capital.
History & Culture of Central Market#
The Central Market was built in 1937 and has been a city landmark ever since. Its Art Deco design and creamy yellow paintwork give it a striking beauty that recalls the French colonial era, and the vast central dome remains one of the largest of its kind in the region.
The market is as rewarding to visit for the experience as for the shopping - a fine place to wander until you stumble across something you need or simply want. When buying, it pays to shop around, negotiate in good humour, and watch for variations in quality, particularly with jewellery or gemstones. As in any busy market, keep an eye out for pickpockets in the crowds.
The Central Market is also a departure point for buses heading in all directions out of the city. Other stations exist, but this one is convenient and tickets can be bought on site.
Weather & Climate near Central Market#
Central Market's climate is classified as Tropical Savanna - Tropical Savanna climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 22°C to 35°C. Abundant rainfall (1379 mm/year), wettest in October with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 22°C. The driest month with just 8 mm and partly cloudy skies.
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February
February is hot, feeling like 28°C. Almost no rain and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is hot, feeling like 31°C. Moderate rainfall (30 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is the hottest month, feeling like 33°C. Moderate rainfall (63 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is hot, feeling like 35°C due to high humidity. Significant rainfall (152 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is hot, feeling like 35°C with oppressive humidity. Significant rainfall (153 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is hot, feeling like 34°C with oppressive humidity. Significant rainfall (162 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is hot, feeling like 34°C with oppressive humidity. Significant rainfall (158 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is hot, feeling like 34°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (225 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is hot, feeling like 33°C with oppressive humidity. The wettest month with heavy rain (259 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is hot, feeling like 31°C with oppressive humidity. Significant rainfall (127 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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December
December is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 22°C. Moderate rainfall (33 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
