Wat Damnak is a working Buddhist pagoda and monastery in Siem Reap, a short walk from the Old Market. Its spacious grounds hold Khmer-style buildings, shrines, Buddha sculptures and a pond edged with water lilies. The site once served as a royal palace under King Sisowath and now also supports community and educational activities, including English lessons for students. Come for a quiet stroll through the gardens, pause by the pond, and take in a calmer side of the city. Dress and behave with respect for this active religious site.
A former royal palace and working monastery
Wat Damnak served as a royal palace during the reign of King Sisowath, who ruled from 1904 to 1927. The site later became a monastery. The pagoda dates to 1935, and resident monks added stupas in the 1950s. Between 1975 and 1979, the grounds were used as a Khmer Rouge military depot.
Today, Wat Damnak is a living religious and community site, not simply a collection of historic buildings. Its grounds have also been home to educational and charitable activities, including a children’s school and sewing classes for young women. The Centre for Khmer Studies is located within the complex.
Buildings, gardens and the pond
The grounds combine traditional Khmer architecture with shrines, statues and carved details. Stone Buddha sculptures and frangipani trees add to the setting, while manicured gardens give visitors room to walk between the buildings. The main pagoda stands across from a pond with colourful water lilies.
The pond is a natural place to pause during a visit. Catfish and turtles live in the water, and local children sometimes feed them. Take time to look around the garden and its smaller shrines and carvings rather than treating the pagoda as a quick photo stop.
A quiet stop close to the Old Market
Wat Damnak is near Siem Reap’s Old Market, also known as Phsar Chas, and within walking distance of the city centre. Its calm grounds feel removed from the busier streets nearby, making the pagoda a useful stop if you want a peaceful walk without leaving town.
The site has also been described as the largest pagoda in Siem Reap. Its combination of religious buildings, gardens, a pond and community institutions gives the complex several points of interest. Allow time to move through the grounds quietly and notice how the monastery continues to be used.
FAQ
Where is Wat Damnak in Siem Reap?
Wat Damnak is near the Old Market, also called Phsar Chas, and within walking distance of the city centre.
What can you see at Wat Damnak?
The grounds include Khmer-style buildings, shrines, carvings, stone Buddha sculptures, frangipani trees and a pond with water lilies.
Was Wat Damnak a royal palace?
Yes. It served as a palace during King Sisowath’s reign, from 1904 to 1927, before becoming a monastery.
Is Wat Damnak a working religious site?
Yes. It is a Buddhist monastery as well as a community and educational site.
