10 Things to Do in Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, Kandal, Cambodia
The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is a somber reminder of the brutality of the Khmer Rouge regime and one of the most important sites to visit in Cambodia. Located in the capital city of Phnom Penh, the museum is a former high school that was converted into a prison and interrogation center during the rule of the Khmer Rouge. It is now a memorial to the victims of the genocide that occurred in the late 1970s, and a visit to the museum is a must for any traveler to Cambodia. Here are ten things you should do when visiting the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Kandal, Cambodia.
1. Take a Tour: The museum offers guided tours in both English and Khmer. The tour will take you through the different areas of the museum and provide an in-depth look at the history of the Khmer Rouge and the atrocities they committed. The tour guides are knowledgeable and will be able to answer any questions you may have.
2. Read the Documentation: Throughout the museum, you will find documents and photographs that provide an insight into the horrors that occurred during the Khmer Rouge regime. Many of these documents are in Khmer, so it’s a good idea to bring a translator if you don’t understand the language.
3. View the Photos: One of the most powerful parts of the museum is the photographs of the victims that were taken upon their arrival to Tuol Sleng. The photos are a grim reminder of the suffering that occurred in this prison.
4. Visit the Cells: The museum consists of four buildings, each of which contains cells where prisoners were held. The cells are now empty, but it’s still an eerie experience to walk through them and imagine the suffering that occurred in these places.
5. Learn About the Victims: Throughout the museum, you will find information about the victims of the genocide, including their names, ages, and occupations. It’s a sobering reminder of the lives that were lost during this period.
6. Visit the Memorial: At the end of the tour, you will find a memorial to the victims of the genocide. It’s a fitting tribute to the people who lost their lives during this dark period in Cambodia’s history.
7. Take a Moment of Silence: Take a few moments to reflect on the horrors that occurred in this place and the lives that were lost. It’s a somber experience, but it’s important to remember the victims of the genocide.
8. Speak to the Survivors: The museum also features interviews with survivors of the genocide. Listening to their stories is a powerful experience and a reminder of the resilience of the Cambodian people.
9. Visit the Killing Fields: After visiting the museum, it’s a good idea to take a trip to the nearby Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. This is where many of the victims of the genocide were killed and buried. It’s a heartbreaking experience, but it’s important to remember the victims.
10. Make a Donation: The museum is run by a non-profit organization, and they rely on donations to keep the museum running. If you can, make a donation to help preserve this important site and ensure that the victims of the genocide are remembered.
Visiting the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is a powerful experience and an important part of any trip to Cambodia. The museum is a sobering reminder of the brutality of the Khmer Rouge regime and the lives that were lost during this period. Make sure to take some time to explore the museum and remember the victims of the genocide.