Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum: A Somber Reflection on Cambodia's History
Explore the profound history of Cambodia at Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a poignant testament to resilience and remembrance.
The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, located in the heart of Phnom Penh, is an essential destination for anyone looking to understand the profound scars left by the Khmer Rouge regime. Originally a high school, this site was converted into Security Prison 21 (S-21), where thousands of Cambodians were detained, tortured, and killed. Today, it stands as a powerful memorial to those who suffered and a stark reminder of the atrocities of war. As you walk through the museum, you will encounter harrowing photographs, personal accounts, and artifacts that tell the story of the victims and survivors. The chilling atmosphere of the former classrooms, now filled with haunting images and testimonies, invites reflection and remembrance. Visitors can take a self-guided tour, allowing for an intimate exploration of the museum's various exhibits. The grounds include the notorious cells where prisoners were held, as well as the execution area, which deepens the emotional impact of the visit. Guided tours are also available for those seeking a more comprehensive understanding of the context and history. It’s advisable to approach this museum with sensitivity, as it deals with heavy themes of suffering and resilience. The museum is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM, and it is recommended to allocate at least two hours to fully appreciate the exhibits. The museum also encourages respectful behavior, ensuring that the memory of those lost is honored.
Local tips
- Allocate at least two hours for your visit to fully absorb the exhibits.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience a more reflective atmosphere.
- Consider hiring a guide for deeper insights into the historical significance of the museum.
- Be respectful when taking photos; some areas may be sensitive.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking through various exhibits.
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 the central area of Phnom Penh, walk towards the intersection of Norodom Boulevard and Street 113. Head south on Norodom Boulevard, which will lead you past several shops and restaurants. Keep walking until you reach the intersection with Street 113, then turn left onto Street 113. Continue walking down Street 113 for about 500 meters, and you will see the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum on your right. The museum is located at the address: St 113, Phnom Penh 12304.
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Cyclo
To take a cyclo, find a cyclo stand or flag one down on the street. Tell the driver 'Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum' or show them the address: St 113, Phnom Penh 12304. The driver will take you through the city streets. Expect the ride to take about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. They will drop you off right in front of the museum entrance.
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Tuk-tuk
To get to Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum by tuk-tuk, locate a tuk-tuk driver or use a ride-hailing app if available. Provide them with the destination: Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, located at St 113, Phnom Penh 12304. The journey should take around 10-15 minutes from most central locations in the city. Negotiate the fare beforehand if it’s not arranged through an app.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, rent a bicycle from a local shop. Start from the central area and head towards the riverfront, then take the path that leads to Norodom Boulevard. Cycle south along Norodom Boulevard until you reach Street 113. Turn left onto Street 113 and continue for about 500 meters. The museum will be on your right. Make sure to wear a helmet and follow local traffic rules.
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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ក្រុងចតុមុខមង្គល សកលកម្ពុជាធិបតី សិរីធរ បវរឥន្ទបត្តបុរីរដ្ឋរាជសីមា មហានគរ
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ផ្ទះទំនើប០១