Wat Ounalom, a Buddhist Legend

Article by Pushpitha Wijesinghe

Phnom Penh, the largest city and capital of Cambodia, inherits a colourful historical and cultural legacy. It drives the country's economy and is recognized as a commercial, industrial and cultural centre. Once called 'the Pearl of Asia' the city is still considered a picturesque area, attracting many foreign visitors yearly. Classical architecture of French colonists can be found alongside local structures and modern buildings. Phnom Penh is overall considered to be the most modern of Cambodian cities.

As a predominantly Buddhist country Cambodia gives great importance to the Buddha and his teachings. Phnom Penh contains a multitude of Buddhist temples (known locally as Wats) and the Wat Ounalom is considered to be the most important of these and the centre of Cambodian Buddhism.

Wat Ounalom was constructed in 1443 to venerate a hair of the Buddha that was kept inside it. At one time the Wat was occupied by over 500 monks. After a period of neglect during the regime of the Khmer Rouge, the Wat's status as a major Buddhist centre was restored after the Vietnamese invasion of the city.

Now once again a vibrant centre occupied by numerous young monks, the Wat is an agreeable place for tourists to enjoy a rest after exploring the nearby Royal Palace. The stupa at the back of the complex is still thought to contain the relic of the Buddha.

Originally constructed by King Ponhea Yat, Wat Ounalom is one of Phnom Penh's five principal original Wats. Wat Ounalom is the centre for the Mahanikaya, the predominant Buddhist sect in Cambodia. Famed as a focus of Buddhist learning, it hosted the Buddhist Institute for some time. The Wat will undoubtedly maintain its status as a focal point of Buddhism in the years to come.

The discerning traveller in search of a hotel Phnom Penh will find the Raffles Hotel Le Royal to be an ideal choice. This superb luxury hotel Cambodia offers lavishly appointed rooms, fine dining and courteous service.

About the Author

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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