Wat Langka, Buddhist temple in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Wat Langka is a temple complex in Phnom Penh featuring traditional Khmer architecture, intricate decorations, and colorful painted walls throughout the grounds. A central stupa rises at the heart of the compound, serving as a focal point for religious devotion.

Wat Langka was built in 1442 as a refuge and storehouse for the Tripitaka, and as a meeting place for Khmer and Sri Lankan monks; the name commemorates that gathering. The Cambodian Royal Chronicles credit Ponhea Yat, founder of Phnom Penh, with ordering its construction alongside Wat Phnom and Wat Ounalom. Under the Khmer Rouge it served as a storage warehouse, which spared it from complete destruction.

The temple serves as an active center for Buddhist learning, where monks gather daily to study texts and perform ceremonies following Theravada traditions. Visitors can observe the rhythm of monastic life and the spiritual practices that shape the community.

Wat Langka stands southwest of the Independence Monument, near the corner of Sihanouk Boulevard and Street 51 in Boeung Keng Kang I, Chamkar Mon. The temple grounds are open to visitors; there is no admission fee. Mornings are cooler and busiest with monks and worshippers, so arrive early for quieter viewing.

Wat Langka was founded as a refuge for the Tripiṭaka and a meeting place for Khmer and Sri Lankan monks, and its name commemorates that gathering. During the Khmer Rouge regime the temple served as a storage warehouse, which spared it from complete destruction.