Wat Thmei, Siem Reap Province Travel Guide

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A poignant memorial site in Siem Reap, Wat Thmei serves as a reminder of the Khmer Rouge regime and honors its victims.

Wat Thmei, or the New Temple, north of Siem Reap, serves as a poignant memorial to the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime. A glass stupa displays the bones and skulls of those who perished during this dark period in Cambodian history.

A brief summary to Wat Thmei

9VM5+4VV, Krong Siem Reap, KH

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Wat Thmei.

Take time to reflect on the history and pay respects to the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime.
Dress respectfully when visiting the temple.
Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history of the site.

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Getting There

Tuk-tuk

From Siem Reap city center, Wat Thmei is easily accessible by tuk-tuk. Tuk-tuks are readily available and are a popular mode of transport for tourists. A short trip from the city center to Wat Thmei typically costs between $2 and $4. Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey. The ride takes approximately 10-15 minutes.
Taxi

Taxis are also available in Siem Reap and offer a comfortable, air-conditioned ride to Wat Thmei. You can book a taxi through your hotel or use a ride-hailing app such as Grab or PassApp. The fare for a short taxi ride within Siem Reap is slightly higher than a tuk-tuk, typically costing between $3 and $5. Taxis provide a convenient option, especially during hot weather.
Bicycle

For budget-conscious and eco-friendly travelers, renting a bicycle is a great way to reach Wat Thmei. Numerous hotels and guesthouses offer bicycle rentals for as little as $1 per day. The ride from the city center to Wat Thmei is relatively flat and takes about 20-30 minutes. Be sure to wear sunscreen and stay hydrated, especially during the hotter months.

Discover more about Wat Thmei

Wat Thmei, also known as Wat Tepothivong, stands as a somber reminder of Cambodia's tragic past under the Khmer Rouge regime. From 1975 to 1979, this site was transformed from a place of worship into a prison and killing field. Thousands of innocent Cambodians were detained, tortured, and murdered here; their remains were thrown into mass burial pits and water wells. It is estimated that around 8,000 people were murdered at this pagoda.In 1995, Wat Thmei was renovated, and a memorial stupa was erected to house the recovered bones and skulls of the victims. The stupa's glass sides allow visitors to view the skeletal remains, serving as a powerful reminder of the atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge era. Today, Wat Thmei serves as both a Buddhist monastery and a memorial site. Visitors can explore the grounds, view the stupa, and reflect on the tragic events that unfolded here. A photo exhibition, a joint project of US Aid and the Documentation Center of Cambodia, provides further context to this period.Wat Thmei offers a chance to learn about Cambodia's history and pay respects to those who lost their lives. The serene atmosphere and traditional Khmer elements of the temple provide a space for contemplation and remembrance.