Wat Thmei, Siem Reap Travel Guide

Wat Thmei, or the New Temple, stands as a poignant reminder of Cambodia's darkest hour. Located just north of central Siem Reap, along the road to Angkor Archaeological Park, this serene Buddhist temple tragically served as a site of mass murder during the Khmer Rouge regime from 1975 to 1979.During this period, Wat Thmei was transformed into a prison where thousands of innocent Cambodians were detained, tortured, and ultimately killed. It is estimated that around 8,000 people were murdered at this pagoda. In 1995, a memorial stupa was constructed to house the recovered remains of the victims.Today, visitors can witness a collection of Khmer Rouge photos, paintings, and instruments of torture. The memorial stupa, with its glass sides, displays the skulls and bones of those who perished, serving as a powerful reminder of the past and the resilience of the Cambodian people. The temple's tranquil gardens offer a serene atmosphere for reflection and prayer.