10 Things to Do in Choeung Ek Genocidal Center (Phnom Penh)
Choeung Ek Genocidal Center, located in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, is a memorial to the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime. It is a powerful reminder of the tragedy that occurred during this period of Cambodian history, and visitors can take part in several activities to pay tribute to the victims and to learn more about the atrocities that occurred here. Here are 10 things to do when visiting Choeung Ek Genocidal Center.
1. Visit the Killing Fields: The Killing Fields are a series of mass graves where thousands of people were buried after being executed by the Khmer Rouge. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Killing Fields, where they will learn about the history of this tragic site and see the remains of the victims.
2. Pay Your Respects at the Memorial Stupa: The Memorial Stupa is a monument to the victims of the Khmer Rouge. It is filled with the skulls of those who were killed, and visitors can pay their respects by lighting incense and offering prayers.
3. Take a Guided Tour: Choeung Ek Genocidal Center offers guided tours of the site. Visitors can learn more about the history and events that occurred at the Killing Fields, as well as the struggles that the survivors endured.
4. Attend a Memorial Service: Every year, Choeung Ek Genocidal Center holds a memorial service to honor the victims of the Khmer Rouge. The service includes traditional Cambodian ceremonies, music, and prayers.
5. Visit the Museum of Genocide: The Museum of Genocide is located at Choeung Ek Genocidal Center. It is filled with artifacts, photographs, and documents from the Khmer Rouge era. Visitors can learn more about the history of this period in Cambodian history.
6. Watch a Documentary: Choeung Ek Genocidal Center offers a documentary about the Killing Fields. The documentary provides an in-depth look at the events that occurred during this time, as well as interviews with survivors.
7. Visit the Site of the Execution Tree: The Execution Tree was used to execute prisoners by the Khmer Rouge. Visitors can take a guided tour of the site and learn more about this tragic event.
8. Visit the Site of the Mass Graves: The mass graves at Choeung Ek Genocidal Center are a reminder of the tragedy that occurred here. Visitors can take a guided tour of the site and learn more about the history of the Khmer Rouge.
9. Take a Boat Trip on the Tonle Sap: Visitors can take a boat trip on the Tonle Sap, a river that runs through Phnom Penh. The trip provides a unique perspective of the city and its surroundings, as well as a chance to learn more about the history of the area.
10. Shop for Souvenirs: Visitors can pick up souvenirs at the Choeung Ek Genocidal Center souvenir shop. The shop offers a variety of items, including t-shirts, postcards, and books.
Visiting Choeung Ek Genocidal Center is a powerful experience that will stay with visitors long after their visit. By taking part in these activities, visitors can pay their respects to the victims and learn more about the history of this tragic site.