The striking beauty of the national museum.

As development gradually takes its course, Cambodia manages to reverently preserve its rich cultural heritage, making any travel experience here both eye-opening and humbling.

Phnom Penh is noticeably more dynamic compared to Siem Reap. Buildings are taller, there are more cars on the roads, while the famed NagaWorld sits loftily in the heart of the capital.

From the very moment one sets foot here, the bustling metropolis offers many offbeat adventures. The historical landmarks in this city are plentiful and undeterred by modernisation.

Listed below are the top six historical places to visit in Phnom Penh for those seeking to learn more about this exotic country.

1. Killing Fields of Choeung Ek

The former Killing Fields, Choeung Ek is a mass grave for victims killed by the Khmer Rouge between 1975 and 1979. Located 17 kilometres south of Phnom Penh, the site contains 8,895 bodies – most of them former politicians imprisoned by the Khmer Rouge regime.

Today, it serves as a memorial and is marked by a Buddhist stupa filled with over 5,000 human skulls. Fragments of bones and items of clothing are visible in the pits.

The imposing Royal Palace.