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A Journey Through Cambodia's Dark History at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

Explore the poignant history of Cambodia at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a vital memorial to the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime.

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The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh invites tourists to explore Cambodia's tragic history through poignant exhibits and preserved artifacts. This former prison and interrogation center offers a sobering insight into the Khmer Rouge regime, making it a must-visit for those seeking to understand the profound impact of this dark chapter on the nation’s identity.

A brief summary to Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

  • រាជធានី, សង្កាត់​បឹង​កេងកង​៣ ខណ្ឌ​ចំការ​មន, St 113, Phnom Penh, Khan Chamkar Mon, 12304, KH
  • +85577252121
  • Visit website
  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and to fully absorb the emotional impact of the museum.
  • Consider taking a guided tour to gain deeper insight into the exhibits and the historical context.
  • Allocate at least two hours for your visit to fully experience the museum and its exhibits.
  • Respect the solemnity of the site; maintain a quiet demeanor as you explore.
  • Check for any temporary exhibitions or events that may enhance your understanding of Cambodian history.
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Getting There

  • Tuk-tuk

    To get to Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum from any central location in Phnom Penh, you can hire a tuk-tuk. Simply tell the driver 'Tuol Sleng' or show them the museum's address: 'St 113, Khan Chamkar Mon'. The ride should take about 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. Ask the driver to drop you off at the entrance of the museum.

  • Cyclo

    If you prefer a more traditional option, you can take a cyclo. Find a cyclo driver and inform them you want to go to 'Tuol Sleng'. They will know the way. The journey will take approximately 15-20 minutes. Be sure to negotiate the fare before starting your ride.

  • Walking

    For those staying nearby, you can walk to Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. Start from the independence monument, head southeast on Norodom Boulevard, then turn left onto Street 113. Continue straight until you reach the museum, which will be on your right. This walk will take approximately 30-40 minutes.

  • Bicycle

    You can also rent a bicycle from various rental shops around the city. From the riverside area, cycle towards Norodom Boulevard, then take a left onto Street 113. Follow the road until you reach the museum on your right. The ride should take around 20-30 minutes.

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Discover more about Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

Located in the heart of Phnom Penh, the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is a deeply significant site that serves as a memorial to the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime. Once a high school, it was transformed into a notorious prison known as S-21, where thousands were tortured and executed during the Cambodian genocide from 1975 to 1979. Today, the museum stands as a haunting reminder of the atrocities committed, with its preserved cells, photographs, and personal accounts leading visitors through the harrowing history of this period. The exhibits are powerful and educational, offering insight into the lives of those who suffered and the broader implications of human rights violations. Each room tells a story, inviting reflection and respect for the lives lost. As you walk through the museum, you will encounter a variety of artifacts, including photographs of the prisoners and documents detailing the brutal regime’s operations. Guided tours are available, providing valuable context and helping visitors to navigate the emotional weight of the exhibits. Additionally, the museum's tranquil grounds contrast sharply with the somber history, offering a space for contemplation. The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is not just a tourist attraction; it is a vital part of Cambodia's cultural memory, encouraging visitors to learn from the past and promote peace and understanding in the present. It is a place where history is honored and the resilience of the human spirit is celebrated.

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