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Wat Thmei: A Memorial to Cambodia's Dark Past

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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.

A brief summary to Wat Thmei

  • 9VM6+238, Krong Siem Reap, KH

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.
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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.

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.

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