Tuol Tom Pong Market, affectionately known as the Russian Market, is one of Phnom Penh’s most beloved shopping destinations. Located in the heart of Chamkar Mon district, this market is a fascinating maze of narrow walkways, bustling vendors, and an endless variety of goods ranging from silk scarves and vintage collectibles to handmade crafts and mouthwatering street food. Whether you are a tourist hunting for souvenirs or a local looking for daily essentials, Tuol Tom Pong offers a truly authentic Cambodian experience.
The market earned its nickname during the 1980s when Russian expatriates and Eastern Bloc workers frequently shopped here for imported goods. Though the Russian clientele is long gone, the name has stuck, and the market has grown into a cultural hub that reflects the city’s evolving identity.
Stepping inside Tuol Tom Pong feels like entering a different world. The outside may seem modest, but inside, the narrow corridors overflow with life. Stalls are tightly packed with goods: silver jewelry, Khmer handicrafts, antiques, musical instruments, artworks, shoes, and clothes—some original and others factory seconds from global brands like H&M, Zara, and Levi’s. It’s a dreamland for bargain hunters and a paradise for photographers capturing the spirit of Phnom Penh.
One of the main draws of the Russian Market is its collection of local textiles and silk products. Here, you can find traditional Cambodian kramas, beautifully woven silk scarves, and fabric by the meter for custom tailoring. Tailor shops within and around the market can create dresses, suits, or shirts to your exact measurements, often within 24 to 48 hours.
Silk and Scarves at Russian Market
Beyond clothes and crafts, Tuol Tom Pong is also a fantastic place to experience authentic Cambodian cuisine. The food court section is filled with local dishes: num banh chok (Khmer noodles), fried spring rolls, grilled meats, and iced Khmer coffee sweetened with condensed milk. For the more adventurous, you can try fried tarantulas or crickets—local delicacies with a crunchy bite.
Don’t miss the fruit stalls just outside the market where you can sample tropical delights such as dragon fruit, mangoes, mangosteens, and rambutans. These vendors often sell ready-to-eat fruit in plastic bags with a pinch of chili salt for flavor. For dessert lovers, stalls deep inside the market offer traditional Khmer sweets like sankhya lapov (pumpkin coconut custard) and sticky rice with banana wrapped in palm leaves.
When planning your visit, it’s best to go early in the morning between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM. The temperature is cooler, the crowd lighter, and vendors more energetic. The market opens daily at around 6:30 AM and typically winds down by 5:00 PM. Most vendors accept U.S. dollars and Cambodian riels, but it’s a good idea to carry small bills since change can be hard to come by. Credit cards are generally not accepted.
Tuol Tom Pong isn’t just a shopping spot—it’s a cultural landmark. Locals come here to socialize, shop, and eat. Tourists come for souvenirs, but often leave with something more valuable: a deeper appreciation of Cambodia’s traditional arts and modern spirit. The market is also a great place to practice your bargaining skills. While prices are usually reasonable, polite haggling is expected—and even welcomed.
Over the years, the neighborhood around the market has transformed. Trendy cafés, restaurants, and expat-friendly shops have opened up, making the area around Tuol Tom Pong a destination in itself. After shopping, you can relax in an air-conditioned café nearby or enjoy a massage at one of the local spas. There’s also a rising number of boutique hotels in the area, attracting both short-term and long-term visitors who want to stay close to this iconic market.
Despite the changes around it, the Russian Market has kept its unique charm. Unlike Phnom Penh’s more polished Central Market, Tuol Tom Pong retains an old-school vibe—noisy, slightly chaotic, and full of character. That’s exactly what makes it unforgettable.
🗺️ Location on Google Maps:
📍 Tuol Tom Pong Market – View on Map
💡 Quick Tips:
- 🕖 Best Time to Visit: Early morning (7:00–9:00 AM)
- 💵 Cash Only: Small USD bills or riels recommended
- 🛍️ What to Buy: Silk scarves, silver jewelry, antiques, artwork
- 🍜 What to Eat: Noodles, iced coffee, banana sticky rice, grilled pork
- 🚖 Transport: Tuk-tuks are available at all entrances
- 📸 Photo Tip: Bring a camera—perfect for capturing daily life
Anna KH 
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