Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21): History, Stories & Visitor Guide

Phnom Penh
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Listing Description

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, widely known as S-21 Prison, is one of the most significant historical and educational sites in Cambodia. Located in the heart of Phnom Penh, the museum was originally a high school before being converted by the Khmer Rouge regime (1975–1979) into a secret detention, interrogation, and torture center. More than 14,000 people were imprisoned here, with very few survivors.
Today, Tuol Sleng preserves original classrooms, prison cells, barbed-wire corridors, photographs, and written confessions. Visiting the museum provides a powerful insight into Cambodia’s tragic past and serves as an important memorial honoring the victims while promoting awareness of human rights and peace.

🚗 How to Get There?

📍 Google Maps: https://www.google.com/maps/place/Tuol+Sleng+Genocide+Museum

  • By Tuk-Tuk or Taxi: 10–15 minutes from Riverside, Royal Palace, or BKK1

  • By Car: Easily accessible via Street 113 or Street 350

  • From Phnom Penh International Airport: Around 30 minutes by taxi
    💡 Tip: Combine your visit with Choeung Ek Killing Fields for a full historical experience.

🎟️ Admission:

  • Foreign visitors: Approx. $5 USD

  • Audio guide: Available in multiple languages for an additional fee

  • Opening hours: Daily from 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

  • Note: Photography is allowed, but visitors are encouraged to be respectful.

📚 Things to Do:

  • Walk through preserved prison rooms and cells

  • Study historical photographs and survivor testimonies

  • Use the audio guide to understand Cambodia’s history in depth

  • Visit the memorial stupa and reflection areas

  • Learn about the Khmer Rouge regime and genocide history

  • Gain insight into Cambodia’s journey toward peace and recovery

🍽️ What to Eat:

While food is not available inside the museum, many restaurants are nearby:

  • Bun Rany Restaurant: Local Khmer dishes

  • Backyard Café: Healthy Western and Asian meals

  • Brown Coffee Toul Sleng: Coffee, pastries, and light snacks

  • Street food stalls: Quick local bites around the area

🏨 Where to Stay:

Convenient accommodations near Tuol Sleng include:

  • Baitong Hotel & Resort: Modern design with green spaces

  • SUN & MOON Urban Hotel: Stylish and centrally located

  • Plantation Urban Resort & Spa: Comfortable boutique hotel

  • Budget guesthouses: Available around BKK1 and Toul Tom Poung

☀️ Best Time to Visit:

  • Morning (8:00–10:00 AM): Cooler temperatures and fewer visitors

  • Best months: November to February (dry and pleasant weather)

  • Avoid peak midday hours due to heat and emotional intensity

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