Ramadan in Phnom Penh
Ramadan in Phnom Penh is quiet and largely invisible to the mainstream. The Buddhist majority does not fast, and secular Cambodian culture remains unchanged. The small Cham Muslim community gathers for prayers at local mosques, but there are no city-wide iftaar markets, special decorations, or cultural shifts. Expect normal working hours, open restaurants, and limited acknowledgment of the holy month.
Today's iftar & suhoor times
Loading…
Ramadan friendliness
Iftaar hotspots
Best mosques for Tarawih
Al-Serkal Mosque (Chroy Changvar, main Cham community mosque, moderate capacity, strong traditional atmosphere); Kampuchea Mosque (Toul Tom Poung, smaller, welcoming to visitors)
What changes during Ramadan
Most businesses and schools remain open on regular hours. Some Cham restaurants may adjust timing or offer simple iftaar meals (rice, curry, soup) during evening hours, but nothing coordinated or advertised widely. A few mosques will hold tarawih prayers in the evenings. Non-Muslim locals will eat and drink normally in public.
Tips for Muslim travelers
Plan ahead: contact local mosques (Al-Serkal, Kampuchea) in advance to learn iftaar timings and locations. Bring your own halal snacks and meals as backup; prepared options are unreliable. Expect to break fast simply—rice, curry, or noodle soup—rather than elaborate spreads.
If you're not fasting
Avoid eating or drinking visibly in front of fasting Muslims out of respect, though the city's secular culture means this is rarely enforced. Do not expect restaurant closures or special menus; most establishments operate normally. If invited to an iftaar, remove shoes and dress modestly. Show genuine interest in Cham Muslim heritage—it is a marginalized community and appreciates respectful outsiders.