Plizio Visual Lab
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
historical-site
The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh is a harrowing memorial to the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime. Originally a secondary school, the complex was transformed in 1975 into the infamous Security Prison 21 (S-21). Under the direction of 'Duch,' between 12,000 and 20,000 people were detained, tortured, and subsequently executed at the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. Only a handful of inmates survived this cruel institution. The museum preserves the oppressive atmosphere of the cells, the torture instruments, and thousands of photographs of prisoners who were systematically registered upon arrival. Today, it serves as a site for education and remembrance to keep alive the memory of the crimes against humanity committed during Pol Pot's rule. A visit is a deeply moving experience that illuminates Cambodia's dark history and emphasizes the importance of justice and reconciliation.
- Location: Cambodia
- Top sights: Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum · Moha Montrey Pagoda · Sa Sa Art Projects
- Nearby: Takeo (25 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 28 | 30 | 31 | 31 | 30 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 16 | 11 | 30 | 62 | 129 | 190 | 163 | 167 | 190 | 167 | 89 | 28 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is open to visitors and shows the former prison building with preserved rooms and exhibitions. The interior is accessible, including the cells and torture chambers.
Typical hours
The museum typically opens late morning and closes in the afternoon, exact times vary seasonally. Check current hours on the official website before your visit.
Photography
Photography is allowed in most exhibition areas, but without flash or tripod. Respect the dignified atmosphere and avoid selfies in particularly sensitive rooms.
Time needed
A visit typically takes one and a half to two hours to thoroughly see the exhibitions and grounds. Allow time to read the panels and remember the victims.
Combine with
The museum is in the Chamkar Mon district, near the Russian Market and Independence Monument. Combine the visit with the Choeung Ek Killing Fields memorial outside the city.
Getting there
The museum is easily reachable by tuk-tuk or taxi from the city center. Buses 3 and 5 stop nearby; the journey from Wat Phnom takes about 15 minutes.
Insider tip
Schedule your visit for the morning to avoid larger crowds in the afternoon. After the tour, take time for quiet reflection in the small inner courtyard.
Geography
Facts
- Originally the Tuol Svay Pray High School.
- Discovered by Vietnamese troops on January 7, 1979.
- The museum was officially opened as early as 1980.
- Houses the S-21 archives, included in the UNESCO Memory of the World register.
- Fewer than 15 survivors are known by name.
- Consists of four main buildings (Blocks A, B, C, and D).
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (12)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What was this place before?
Originally a high school, it was turned into the S-21 prison by the Khmer Rouge.
Is an audio guide available?
Yes, the audio guide is highly recommended and available in many languages.
Is photography allowed in the museum?
In outdoor areas yes, but it is forbidden in some rooms displaying photos of victims.
What is the atmosphere like?
Very somber and emotional; visitors are asked to be respectful and quiet.
How much time should you spend there?
At least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully process the history via the audio guide.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum: where is it located?
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is located in Cambodia.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum: what is there to see?
Highlights include Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, Moha Montrey Pagoda, Sa Sa Art Projects.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum: why is it worth visiting?
The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh is a harrowing memorial to the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Cambodia →
Nearby cities
Phnom Penh
Cambodia's bustling capital city sits at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, serving as the nation's political and economi…
Ta Khmau
The capital of Kandal province is located just south of Phnom Penh and is heavily integrated into the capital's metropolitan region.
Takeo
Takeo is considered the cradle of Cambodian civilization, featuring ancient archaeological sites and a strong silk-weaving tradition.
Châu Đốc
A city on the border with Cambodia, famous for the sacred Sam Mountain and a diverse culture.
Kampong Thom
Kampong Thom is a relaxed provincial town on the Stueng Saen river and the jumping-off point for the fascinating ancient temple complex o…
Kampong Chhnang
Known as the 'Port of Pottery', this town on the Tonle Sap lake is famous for manufacturing traditional Cambodian clay pots.
Kampong Speu
Located west of the capital, this provincial city is famous for its production of palm sugar, a traditional Cambodian sweetener.
Prey Veng
Located in the agricultural heartland of Cambodia, this quiet town plays a key role in the country's rice production.
Rach Gia
Rach Gia is a charming coastal city on the Gulf of Thailand, known as the primary ferry hub for Phu Quoc Island and for its modern urban …
Hà Tiên
A scenic coastal and border town near Cambodia, known for its limestone caves and beaches.
Kampong Cham
This peaceful city is located on the banks of the Mekong River and still exudes the charm of the French colonial era in a rural setting.
Preah Vihear
This remote northern town serves as the main staging point for visitors to the spectacular cliff-top temple of Prasat Preah Vihear.
Suong
As the capital of the relatively newly created Tboung Khmum province, Suong is growing rapidly and serves as a vital trading hub for agri…
Koh Tonsay
Better known as 'Rabbit Island', this is a small, tranquil island located just off the coast of Kep.
Kep
Once Cambodia's most glamorous seaside resort for the elite, Kep is now famous for its relaxed atmosphere and legendary crab market.
History & landmarks
Central Market (Phsar Thmei)
A distinctive yellow art deco building from the colonial era, serving today as a bustling market for jewelry, clothing, and souvenirs.
National Museum of Cambodia
The largest museum of cultural history in Cambodia, known for its impressive collection of Khmer art and sculpture.
Wat Ounalom
The center of Cambodian Buddhism, reputed to preserve an eyebrow hair of Buddha in its main stupa.
Wat Botum
One of the most important and elaborately decorated temples in Phnom Penh, whose name means Temple of the Lotus Blossoms.
Oudong
Oudong was the royal capital of Cambodia from 1618 to 1866.
More places
Phnom Penh Autonomous Port
A major inland port on the Mekong River, connecting the capital to international trade routes.
Wat Phnom
A Buddhist temple located on the city's only hill, from which the capital Phnom Penh takes its name.
Independence Monument
The Independence Monument is a lotus-shaped landmark in central Phnom Penh.
Cambodia-Vietnam Friendship Monument
A massive concrete monument in Hun Sen Park, erected in the late 1970s to commemorate the alliance between the two nations.
Royal Palace of Cambodia
The royal residence complex featuring classic Khmer roofs and ornate decorations, including the famous Silver Pagoda.
Choeung Ek
The best-known of the "Killing Fields", where a monument made of thousands of human skulls remembers the victims.
Silk Island (Koh Dach)
A peaceful island in the Mekong River near Phnom Penh, widely known for its traditional silk weaving and agriculture.
Phnom Penh Safari Park
A large zoo and amusement park on the outskirts of Phnom Penh, offering diverse attractions for families.