Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum: A Profound Journey into Cambodia's History
Explore the haunting legacy of Cambodia's past at Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a powerful tribute to the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, often referred to as S-21, is an essential stop for anyone wishing to understand the dark chapter of Cambodia's history during the Khmer Rouge regime. Located in the heart of Phnom Penh, this museum was formerly a high school that was repurposed into a detention and torture center where thousands suffered and perished. The museum is a stark reminder of the atrocities committed during the 1970s, with over 14,000 people imprisoned here, most of whom never returned home. Visitors can explore the museum's various buildings, which house extensive exhibits featuring photographs, artifacts, and testimonies from survivors. The chilling atmosphere is complemented by the preserved cells and torture equipment, allowing tourists to grasp the magnitude of human rights violations that occurred. The museum also offers guided tours led by knowledgeable staff, some of whom are survivors themselves. Their personal stories add a profound layer of understanding to the experience, making it deeply impactful. In addition to the main exhibits, the museum hosts educational programs and events that promote awareness of human rights issues. The tranquil gardens surrounding the museum provide a space for reflection and remembrance, emphasizing the resilience of the Cambodian people. Visiting Tuol Sleng is not only an opportunity to learn about history but also a chance to pay respect to those who lost their lives and to advocate for a future where such atrocities are never repeated.
Local tips
- Allocate at least two to three hours for your visit to fully absorb the exhibits and guided tours.
- Consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and experience a more reflective atmosphere.
- Wear respectful clothing as this is a somber site dedicated to the memory of the victims.
- Take advantage of the guided tours for a deeper understanding of the exhibits and personal stories.
- Check for any temporary exhibitions or events that may be happening during your visit.
A brief summary to Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
- រាជធានី, សង្កាត់បឹងកេងកង៣ ខណ្ឌចំការមន, St 113, Phnom Penh, Khan Chamkar Mon, 12304, KH
- +85577252121
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in Chamkar Mon, start by heading towards Street 113. Look for any local landmarks or signs that indicate you're heading in the right direction. Walk along Street 113; Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum will be on your right side. The museum is located at the address: រាជធានី, សង្កាត់បឹងកេងកង៣ ខណ្ឌចំការមន, St 113, Phnom Penh 12304. This is approximately a 15-20 minute walk depending on your starting point.
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Bicycle
You can rent a bicycle at various locations throughout Chamkar Mon. Once you have a bicycle, navigate towards Street 113. Cycle along Street 113 until you reach the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, which will be on your right. Be cautious of traffic and ensure you follow local cycling rules. The ride should take around 10 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
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Tuk-tuk
If you prefer a more comfortable option, you can hire a tuk-tuk from your location in Chamkar Mon. Simply inform the driver that you want to go to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, located on Street 113. The fare for a short trip within the Chamkar Mon area typically ranges from $2 to $5, depending on your starting point and negotiation with the driver. The journey should take approximately 5-10 minutes.
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Motorbike Taxi
Another option is to use a motorbike taxi, which is a quick way to get around. Similar to the tuk-tuk, tell the driver you want to go to Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum on Street 113. The fare is usually around $1 to $3, and the ride will take about 5 minutes. Just make sure to wear a helmet for safety.
Attractions Nearby to Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
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Boeng Keng Kang Market
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WAT chocolate Phnom Penh
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Olympic Market
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Russian Market / ផ្សារទួលទំពូង
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Wat Langka Meditation
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Wat Langka
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Wat Than
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National Olympic Stadium
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Independence Monument
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Thánh Thất Cao Đài Tây Ninh Tại Phnompenh
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Bassac Street
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Bassac Square
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Orussey Market
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Olympia Fountain
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Statue of His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk
Landmarks nearby to Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
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Wat Maniratanaram Tuol Tumpung
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Toul Tom Poung EVENING market
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Tuol Tompoung Market
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TESOL House
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Hiko Teppanyaki Noro Mall Branch
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Meta House
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Mad Monkey Phnom Penh
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Monument to the Constitution
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Malis Norodom
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WH Chamkarmorn Residence
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Bassac Lane
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WCS Cambodia
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ផ្សាររន្ទេះបាញ់ Chomka morn
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Phnom Penh
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ក្រុងចតុមុខមង្គល សកលកម្ពុជាធិបតី សិរីធរ បវរឥន្ទបត្តបុរីរដ្ឋរាជសីមា មហានគរ