Where to See Street Art in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

It’s no secret that I love street art — I’d even go as far as saying it motivates a lot of my travels. I’ve been known to trek off on a day trip just to see a rainbow village in Indonesia or a community-based outdoor art gallery project in Vietnam. I had no idea there were so many vibrant murals in Cambodia’s capital city of Phnom Penh. From the Mad Monkey hostel to a once-hip neighborhood, here’s where you can see street art in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

BOEUNG KAK ‘LAKE’ DISTRICT

Boeung Kak Lake District area was once actually a lake before developers dried it up to build over. It was the largest urban wetland in Cambodia and generated income for local people who farmed and fished here. But, gentrification took over as it always does. This was all a waste as the neighborhood is now run-down which is a shame for those who’ve been displaced.

Artists took to the Street 93 to express their feelings through graffiti and street art in the area in an array of traditional and contemporary motifs. The concept is that art is for everyone and should be accessible for all.

This is the main area to see street art in Phnom Penh. My favorite piece in the area is an owl-woman, it doesn’t clearly state who the artist is, unfortunately.

Art can be seen by Lisa Mam, Cambodia’s first female street artist. Her work brings to life Cambodia’s cultural heritage with Apsara dance hand movements that depict nature and Naga’s—five-headed dragon-like creatures.

Chifumi is an expat street artist who’s a part of the Cambodia Urban Arts Festival which is usually held in April. It looks as if many new murals have been added since my visit in December.

STREET 240 1/2

On the snake-like alleyway that’s home to Artillery Art’s Cafe is one of the best places to see street art in Phnom Penh. Street 240 ½ is home to some trendy eateries, shops, and bars. Stop by during the daytime so you can take in the impressive murals that line the walls of the alleys and come back at night for a taste of Phnom Penh’s nightlife.

MAD MONKEY HOSTEL

I was invited to stay a few days at the Mad Monkey hostel in Phnom Penh and as always fell hard for all the artwork seen around the property. Both local and foreign creatives have left their marks on these walls with many of the paintings having a spiritual inclination or a party vibe, which pretty much sums Mad Monkey up! Read about my stay at Mad Monkey Phnom Penh and check availability and rates to book your own stay.