How to Plan Your Half Day Trip to Killing Field and Genocidal Museum in Phnom Penh

Looking to explore the dark history of Cambodia? A visit to the Killing Field and Genocidal Museum in Phnom Penh is a must-see. This half day tour will take you on a journey through the sobering past of Cambodia under the Khmer Rouge regime. Through this guide, we’ll show you how to plan your trip to these historical sites.

Overview of the Half Day Tour

The half day tour to the Killing Field and Genocidal Museum lasts for about six hours, starting at 8:00 am. During this time, you’ll visit two of the most significant historical sites in Phnom Penh: the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Choeung Ek Genocidal Center, commonly referred to as the Killing Fields. The tour comes with a private English-speaking guide, private transportation with air conditioning, pure drinking water, and meals and drinks. It also includes tickets to the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum and the Choeung Ek Genocidal Center.

Meeting and Pickup Points

Pick up points for the tour have been arranged for various hotels in Phnom Penh, and you can select the closest pickup point to you when purchasing your tour ticket. The pickup is from the lobby of your hotel. In case you have specific instructions, please send them in advance.

Additional Information

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and most travelers can participate. Confirmation of your booking will be received immediately, and you can cancel up to twenty-four hours in advance of the experience and receive a full refund. Any changes made less than twenty-four hours in advance will not be accepted.

How to Book the Tour

To book the Half Day Tour to the Killing Field and Genocidal Museum, visit the Viator website. Choose your preferred date, enter your hotel and pickup point, and purchase the tour.

What to Expect

The tour starts early in the morning with a pick up from your hotel lobby, and then you proceed to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, which was once an infamous Khmer Rouge interrogation center. You’ll learn about the gruesome techniques used by the Khmer Rouge to extract information from prisoners and torture them. The museum displays photographs, artwork, and artifacts which offer a glimpse of life during the Khmer Rouge regime. From there, you’ll visit the Choeung Ek Genocidal Center, which is located just outside Phnom Penh. This is where the Khmer Rouge executed over 17,000 prisoners.

At the Choeung Ek Genocidal Center, you’ll see the “Killing Tree,” where executioners killed children by bashing them against its trunk. You’ll also see the mass graves, which have been left untouched, as a testimony to the atrocities that happened there. You’ll learn how the Khmer Rouge regime targeted anyone who represented a threat to their rule, including intellectuals, professionals, and ethnic minorities.

After the tour, you’ll be taken back to your hotel by late afternoon. The half-day tour to the Killing Field and Genocidal Museum is a sombre but necessary experience that helps to preserve the memory of the victims of the Khmer Rogue regime.

Conclusion

The Half Day Tour to the Killing Field and Genocidal Museum is an unforgettable experience for anyone interested in the dark history of Cambodia. With our guide, you’ll find it easy to plan your trip, from booking to pickup, to the tour itself. So book your tour today and take a journey back in time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh is the capital of Cambodia, known for its rich history and culture, friendly people, and bustling city life. If you’re planning a trip to this exciting city or considering living there, you may have some questions in mind. In this blog post, we will answer a few of the most frequently asked questions about Phnom Penh.

What is the best time to visit Phnom Penh?

The best time to visit Phnom Penh is during the cool and dry season which runs from November to March. During this time, the temperatures remain moderate, and you can enjoy comfortable weather conditions for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and other adventures. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so be ready to encounter crowds and higher prices. If you prefer a quieter and cheaper season, you can visit from May to September, which is the greenest time of the year, but also the wettest.

What are the top tourist attractions in Phnom Penh?

There are several fascinating tourist attractions to explore in Phnom Penh, including:

1. Royal Palace of Cambodia

The Royal Palace of Cambodia is a stunning architectural masterpiece and home to the royal family of Cambodia. The palace features traditional Khmer-styled buildings, glittering gold roofs, and ornate gardens.

2. National Museum of Cambodia

The National Museum of Cambodia is the largest collection of Khmer art in the world, showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage.

3. Killing Fields of Choeung Ek

The Killing Fields of Choeung Ek is a haunting reminder of the genocide committed by the Khmer Rouge regime during the 1970s. A visit to this site offers a chance to pay tribute to the victims and understand the tragic history of Cambodia.

4. Wat Phnom

Wat Phnom is the tallest religious structure in Phnom Penh and a significant Buddhist temple. This temple is renowned for its tranquil atmosphere, offering visitors a chance to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.

Is it safe to travel to Phnom Penh?

Phnom Penh is generally safe for visitors, but it’s important to exercise caution and keep your belongings close at all times. Petty theft, pickpocketing, and bag snatching can occur in busy areas or on public transport, so be careful, especially at night.

What is the cost of living in Phnom Penh?

The cost of living in Phnom Penh is relatively low, making it an affordable city to live in or visit. The average cost of a meal in a local restaurant is around $2-4, while a beer can cost as little as $0.75. Public transport is inexpensive, and renting an apartment in the city center can cost between $200-500 per month.

What is the transportation system like in Phnom Penh?

Phnom Penh has a decent transportation system, including buses, tuk-tuks, and motorbike taxis, which are the most common means of transportation in the city. You can also rent a bicycle or a motorbike if you want more freedom to explore the city at your own pace.

What is the food like in Phnom Penh?

Phnom Penh offers a diverse range of cuisine, from traditional Cambodian dishes to international options such as Korean, Italian, and Thai. Some popular local dishes you should try include Amok, a steamed coconut curry with fish or chicken, and Lok Lak, a beef or chicken stir fry served with rice.

What is the dress code in Phnom Penh?

Phnom Penh is a conservative city, and it is appropriate to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious or cultural sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing or shorts, and always cover your shoulders and knees.

What is the currency used in Phnom Penh?

The currency used in Phnom Penh is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), although US dollars are also widely accepted. Most ATMs dispense US dollars, but you can exchange your currency for Riel at banks or dedicated money exchange counters.

Conclusion

Phnom Penh is a vibrant city with plenty to offer visitors, from its rich history and culture to delicious cuisine and friendly locals. It’s essential to plan your trip carefully, do your research, and make sure you are aware of the safety precautions to take. We hope this article has answered some of the most frequently asked questions about Phnom Penh and has helped you prepare for an exciting and memorable trip to this beautiful city.