Phnom Penh Area Guide: Prampir Makara
Prampir Makara, also known as 7 Makara, offers a unique experience for expats in Phnom Penh. While not the typical expat enclave, it provides a central location and a chance to immerse yourself in the local rhythm of the city. Unlike expat-heavy areas, Prampir Makara offers a more authentic Cambodian experience. Mingle with locals at shops and restaurants, and get a taste of everyday life in the city.
Location is king! Prampir Makara boasts excellent connectivity, with major roads and public transport links facilitating easy travel across Phnom Penh. The district’s central position enhances its accessibility to other parts of the city.
Olympic Stadium
Olympic Stadium, also known as the National Sports Complex of Cambodia, is the most known landmark in the district. The complex features a big sports arena. There are also volleyball, boxing, gymnastics, aerobics, football, and other sports courts. Despite its name, the stadium has never hosted an Olympic Games.
Construction on the National Sports Complex began in 1963 and was finished in 1964. Designer Vann Molyvann used extensive earthworks to create the stadium, digging over 500,000 cubic metres of earth to shape the grounds.
The stadium has come to be a popular attraction for Phnom Penh residents, who attend daily exercise sessions, as well as football games and other activities. In 2023, the stadium’s capacity was decreased to 30,000 via installation of additional 25,000 individual seats to ensure compliance with the FIFA’s and AFC’s regulations.
O’russey Market
Orussey Market is the largest market and commercial hub for Cambodians in Phnom Penh. You can find practically anything at Orussey Market, although it is not suggested if you are in a hurry. The market sells everything from fresh food to household items and garden tools, as well as gadgets, accessories, apparel, and decorations.
This market is housed in a large square building painted white and blue. It is big inside, and if you don’t know where you’re going, you’ll get lost quickly. Orussey Market contains three stories of stalls: the ground floor houses food of all kinds, kitchen supplies, tools, garden tools, and electronics, while the first and second floors house apparel, accessories, tailors, curtains, jewelry, and fabric.
Oussey Market is definitely worth a visit if you have the time and patience because it has a large supply and reasonable rates. There are also other tiny stores and stalls located throughout the market. You may engage with the locals and learn about their eating habits and everyday lives.
Real Estate Market
While not overflowing with luxury apartments, Prampir Makara offers varied housing options to suit different tastes and budgets.
| No. of Bedroom: | Average Monthly Rent: |
| Studio | $350 – $600 |
| 1 Bedroom | $400 – $800 |
| 2 Bedroom | $650 – $3,000 |
| 3 Bedroom | $1,000 – $4,000 |
Daily Necessities
Rest assured, you won’t be without the essentials. The area has supermarkets and shops catering to everyday needs. Additionally, the massive O’Russey Market is a great place to find anything you might need.
While local, Prampir Makara isn’t isolated. You’ll find a healthy mix of international restaurants, cafes, and shops, ensuring some comforts from home. The new Olympia Mall provides further options
Building a community might require more effort compared to expat hubs. However, this can be an opportunity to connect with local residents and experience Cambodian culture firsthand.
Conclusion
Prampir Makara offers a unique blend of affordability, central location, and local charm. If you’re an expat seeking a non-traditional experience in Phnom Penh, this district might be your perfect fit.
To learn more about its neighboring district – Daun Penh, click here.