Le Méridien Angkor
Le Méridien Angkor: A Luxurious Gateway to Ancient Wonders
Wat Thmei: A Memorial to Cambodia's Dark Past
A somber yet important site in Siem Reap, Wat Thmei serves as a memorial to the victims of the Khmer Rouge and a reminder of Cambodia's tragic past.
Wat Thmei, also known as Wat Tepothivong, is a Buddhist temple near Siem Reap that serves as a memorial to the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime. It contains a stupa filled with the bones and skulls of those who were killed during the late 1970s, offering a sobering reminder of Cambodia's tragic history.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Wat Thmei
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
9VM6+238, Krong Siem Reap, KH
Other nearby places you may find interesting
Explore places near Wat Thmei
Getting There
Tuk-tuk
From Siem Reap city center, the most common way to reach Wat Thmei is by tuk-tuk. A short ride should cost between $2 and $4. Agree on the price 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. Expect to pay around $3-$4 for a short trip from the city center. You can book a taxi through your hotel or use a ride-hailing app.
Local tips
✓
Remember to dress respectfully when visiting, as Wat Thmei is a religious site. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
✓
Take some time to walk around the grounds and reflect on the history and the lives lost.
✓
Consider hiring a local guide to provide deeper insights into the history of the site and the Khmer Rouge regime.
Discover more about Wat Thmei
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.
A brief summary to Wat Thmei
Use Wat Thmei as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Get the app
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
More about Siem Reap
Discover Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor Wat, where ancient temples, vibrant markets, and cultural experiences create an unforgettable adventure in Cambodia.
Tell me more about Siem Reap
