Phnom Penh Area Guide: Tonle Bassac – Home to Highest Skyscrapers

Tonle Bassac, once a quiet neighborhood in Phnom Penh, has undergone a remarkable transformation over the years, evolving into one of the capital’s most prestigious and vibrant districts. It is part of Chamkarmon district, located on the west side of the Bassac River, circled by Sihanouk Blvd. and Norodom Blvd. Just across the Bassac River lies Koh Pich (Diamond Island), a newer extension of the district that’s gradually become a vibrant part of Tonle Bassac’s ongoing story—home to modern developments, event spaces, and waterfront attractions.

With a combination of modern high-rise buildings, lush green spaces, and historical landmarks, Tonle Bassac has emerged as a symbol of Cambodia’s rapid development and urbanization. The area’s growth has been fueled by the influx of foreign investments, driving the construction of luxury real estate and commercial projects that have reshaped its skyline and attracted both locals and expatriates.

Location In The City Of Phnom Penh

What Tonle Bassac Is Known For

Tonle Bassac is known as the Embassy Hub of Phnom Penh, marked by the presence of numerous diplomatic missions representing countries from across the globe. This international presence underscores Cambodia’s growing importance on the world stage and creates a unique environment for cross-cultural exchange.

Diplomatic Missions In Tonle Bassac:

• Royal Thai Embassy
• Australian Embassy
• Embassy of Japan
• Republic of Indonesia
• Russian Federation
• Malaysia
• Republic of Korea
• Philippine Embassy

Alongside the embassies, the area is home to several key government agencies:

• Ministry of Interior
• General Commissariat of the National Police
• Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Ministry of Environment
• Ministry of National Assembly-Senate Relations and Inspection
• Cambodia Living Arts
• Supreme National Economic Council

This influential presence has helped shape Tonle Bassac into a preferred location for both luxury residences and modern commercial developments.

Schools, Work & Infrastructure

Tonle Bassac offers a strong infrastructure network, well-maintained roads, and access to Phnom Penh’s top-tier international schools and institutions.

International Schools Nearby

• iCAN British International School – British curriculum for ages 2–11, located on Ke Nou Street in Tonle Bassac
• Canadian International School of Phnom Penh (CIS) – IB World School on Koh Pich offering Nursery to Grade 12, with a preschool campus in Bassac Garden City
• EFI – École Française Internationale – French curriculum, preschool through middle school, also located on Koh Pich

These schools contribute to a family-friendly environment, attracting international residents seeking quality education.

Work & Connectivity

• Grade-A Office Buildings: Morgan Tower, The Peak, and GIA Tower serve multinational firms and local enterprises
• Upcoming Landmark: Odom Tower, a mixed-use development combining luxury office space, retail, and entertainment
• Connectivity: Tonle Bassac is connected via key city arteries and the newly opened Koh Pich–Koh Norea Bridge (2023), improving access to eastern Phnom Penh

Where To Go

For leisure and entertainment, Tonle Bassac offers a mix of urban attractions and cultural venues.

• NagaWorld – Phnom Penh’s largest casino-hotel complex, catering to tourists and international guests
• Koh Pich Central Park – An architectural landmark hosting exhibitions and public events
• Coconut Park & Bassac Lane – Popular hangouts offering green spaces, cafes, nightlife, and scenic river views

Koh Pich (Diamond Island)

Originally developed as an event and leisure zone, Koh Pich has matured into a dynamic mixed-use neighborhood . Now considered a natural extension of Tonle Bassac, the island features a growing collection of schools, businesses, and residences.

Key Highlights:

• International Schools: CIS and EFI offer globally accredited education options
• Higher Education: In 2024, De Montfort University launched Cambodia’s first British university campus here
• Commercial Hubs: Aquation Office Park and GIA Tower provide coworking spaces and modern business infrastructure
• Leisure: Treellion Park, The Elysée, and a scenic riverwalk make Koh Pich a balanced live-work-play environment

The island is also home to Diamond Bay Garden, a luxury riverfront condominium managed by The Ascott Limited, offering both move-in-ready units and guaranteed rental return programs.

How Nights Are Spent

Tonle Bassac comes alive after dark. From rooftop lounges to riverside bars, the district offers nightlife that caters to both casual and refined tastes.

Popular venues include:

• Celeste Sky Bar and Eclipse Sky Bar – Rooftop views and cocktails
• Bassac Lane – A cluster of intimate bars and pubs with live music and laid-back vibes
• Cultural Events – Art exhibitions, music festivals, and night markets bring a local energy to the district

What Homes Be Like

Tonle Bassac’s skyline continues to evolve with high-end residential developments.

Key Projects:

• J-Tower 3 – A luxury high-rise near the BKK1 border, designed for vertical city living with expansive views
• Odom – A mixed-use tower blending residential, commercial, and retail experiences, located along Norodom Blvd.
• Diamond Bay Garden – Landmark riverfront development on Koh Pich, offering managed units and top-tier amenities.

Other established residences include:

• J-Tower 1
• Embassy Residence
• Rose Condo
• Bassac Garden City and Les Jardins Du Bassac – Secure gated communities ideal for families

Average Rental Prices:

Why Tonle Bassac Is Defining Phnom Penh’s Future

Tonle Bassac blends prestige, convenience, and culture — from embassies and offices to schools, residences, and riverfront escapes. The district’s evolution continues through developments like Koh Pich, which bring education, commerce, and lifestyle together in one interconnected zone.

Whether you’re looking for a long-term residence, a vibrant neighborhood to grow a business, or a promising real estate investment, Tonle Bassac stands out as one of Phnom Penh’s most forward-looking and livable areas.

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