Complete Guide to Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21): Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Attractions in Phnom Penh
Date: 14/06/2025
Introduction: Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum—History, Cultural Significance, and Visitor Experience
The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, formerly Security Prison 21 (S-21), stands as one of Phnom Penh’s most significant and sobering historical landmarks. Once a secondary school, the site was transformed into a notorious prison and interrogation center under the Khmer Rouge regime from 1975 to 1979. Thousands of Cambodians, including intellectuals and perceived political opponents, were detained, tortured, and executed here. Today, the museum preserves this tragic history through original prison cells, photographic records, and survivor testimonies.
A visit to Tuol Sleng provides deep insight into Cambodia’s past and the devastating impact of the Khmer Rouge’s quest for a classless society. The museum is open daily, with entrance fees for foreigners set at approximately $5 USD. Guided tours and audio guides are available to enrich your understanding of the site and its context. Its central Phnom Penh location, accessible by tuk-tuks and taxis, and its wheelchair-friendly facilities make it easy for visitors of all backgrounds.
For those wishing to further explore Cambodia’s genocide history, a trip to the nearby Choeung Ek Killing Fields is highly recommended. Additionally, official resources and virtual archives offer in-depth information for both in-person and remote visitors. To make the most of your visit and discover more of Phnom Penh’s historical sites, consider downloading the Audiala app and following related social media channels. (BBC News, Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, Documentation Center of Cambodia)
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Historical Background of Tuol Sleng (S-21)
- Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
- How to Get There
- Accessibility and Visitor Tips
- Nearby Attractions
- Visuals and Media
- FAQ
- Conclusion and Call to Action
- References
Historical Background of Tuol Sleng (S-21)
Tuol Sleng was originally a Phnom Penh high school before its conversion into an interrogation and torture center by the Khmer Rouge in April 1975 (BBC News). The regime, under Pol Pot, sought to eliminate all opposition and create an agrarian socialist society, resulting in the deaths of millions, including those imprisoned at S-21. The museum’s exhibits—original cells, photographs, and confessions—offer a stark window into this dark period and underscore the importance of remembrance and education.
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
- Opening Hours: Daily from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM (last admission at 5:00 PM).
- Ticket Prices: Approximately $5 USD for foreign visitors; discounts for students and Cambodian nationals.
- Ticket Purchase: Tickets are available at the museum entrance only.
- Guided Tours: Audio guides (available in multiple languages) and guided tours can be arranged onsite or through local travel agencies.
How to Get There
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is centrally located at Street 113, Phnom Penh. The museum is easily accessible by tuk-tuk, taxi, or on foot if staying nearby. Rideshare and public transportation options are also available, making it convenient for all visitors.
Accessibility and Visitor Tips
- Accessibility: The museum grounds are mostly wheelchair accessible, with ramps and accessible restrooms, though some areas retain original uneven surfaces.
- Visitor Tips:
- Wear modest clothing out of respect for the site.
- Comfortable footwear is recommended due to the extensive grounds.
- Bring water, especially during the hot season.
- Photography is permitted (no flash or tripods), but visitors should be mindful of the somber environment.
- Early morning or late afternoon visits are best for avoiding crowds.
Nearby Attractions
Expand your understanding of Cambodia’s history by visiting other notable sites in Phnom Penh:
- Choeung Ek Killing Fields: A crucial companion site, located about 15 kilometers from Tuol Sleng.
- National Museum of Cambodia: Home to Khmer art and cultural artifacts.
- Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda: Important historical and architectural landmarks.
- Wat Phnom: Phnom Penh’s iconic hilltop temple.
Visuals and Media
The museum features extensive visual archives, including photographs of prisoners, murals by survivors, and preserved prison cells. For those unable to visit in person, digital archives and virtual tours are available through official museum resources and the Documentation Center of Cambodia, providing broader access to this vital history. (Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, Documentation Center of Cambodia)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are children allowed to visit Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum?
A: Yes, but due to graphic exhibits, parental discretion is strongly advised.
Q: Can I purchase tickets online?
A: No, tickets are only sold onsite at the entrance.
Q: Is there a dress code?
A: Modest clothing is recommended as a sign of respect for the memorial site.
Q: How long should I allocate for a visit?
A: Most visitors spend 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the museum and its exhibits.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, both audio guides and in-person guided tours can be arranged at the museum.
Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, most areas are accessible, though some surfaces are uneven due to historical preservation.
Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Photography is allowed in most areas, but flash and tripods are not permitted.
Conclusion and Call to Action
A visit to Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is both a powerful educational experience and a profound act of remembrance. By exploring the preserved cells, photographic records, and survivor stories, visitors gain a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s history and the atrocities of the Khmer Rouge regime. Guided tours and audio guides further enhance the experience, while nearby attractions like the Choeung Ek Killing Fields provide broader context.
To make the most of your journey, download the Audiala app for curated travel guides and itinerary planning. Stay updated by following our social media channels and exploring related articles on Phnom Penh’s historical sites. Engaging with this history is not just an act of remembrance, but a step toward building a more just and informed future.
Image Alt Text Suggestions:
- “Entrance to Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh”
- “Photographs of victims displayed inside Tuol Sleng Museum”
- “Visitors exploring preserved prison cells at Tuol Sleng”
For more information and related articles, visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum’s official website and the Documentation Center of Cambodia.
