Here are 7 must-see museums in Cambodia that will give you a deeper insight into the country’s rich history and culture. Whether you’re interested in ancient artifacts, learning about Cambodia’s recent past, or just want to explore some of the best cultural sites, this list will guide you to some of the best places to explore on your trip. Visit them on your next trip to get a true sense of Cambodia’s heritage.
Top 7 museums in Cambodia you must visit
National Museum of Cambodia
National Museum of Cambodia
Address: Preah Ang Eng Street, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Opening hours: 8 AM – 5 PM
Entrance fee: $10 per adult, $5 for children
Located north of the Royal Palace, the National Museum was built within the capital Phnom Penh in the early 20th century. The National Museum of Cambodia was built in the Cambodian architectural style with tiled roofs carved with typical Khmer motifs and famous mascots in Cambodian cultural beliefs, such as the nine-headed Naga Snake God. The unmistakable feature of this place is the red terracotta color, the whole building is covered in a prominent red color mixed with the black color of the wooden interior. This architectural style exudes the beauty of grandeur and solemnity as well as bringing visitors a sense of excitement.
Once here, you will be lost in the collection of thousands of antiquities including sculptures, ceramics and ethnographic objects from the prehistoric, pre-Angkorian, Angkorian and post-Angkorian periods, which are worth millennia and more, the largest collection of Khmer art in the world. The museum was established to promote awareness and understanding of Cambodia’s cultural, historical and religious heritage and to inspire visitors.
Angkor National Museum
The museum showcases the rich history and cultural heritage of the Khmer Empire
Address: 968 Vithei, Charles De Gaulle, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia
Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 6 PM
Entrance fee: $12 for adults, $6 for children under 12, free for children under 5
Angkor National Museum is an archaeological museum dedicated to collecting, preserving and displaying Angkorian artifacts, while providing information and education about the art and culture of the Khmer civilization. From the outside, the Angkor National Museum looks like a solid, durable block of gold, but no less graceful and soft. Each line and design motif is carved with great sophistication and artistry. The layout of each room is also arranged in a solemn, mysterious way, making you feel like you are lost in a maze.
Angkor National Museum has important historical significance for the Cambodian people. The museum displays collections dating back to the Angkor period of the Khmer Empire from around the 9th to the 14th century. Most of the artifacts were discovered in and around the nearby Angkor archaeological sites. This is where all the cultural, linguistic, and ethnic identity values of the Khmer people from hundreds of years ago are preserved. Coming here, visitors will have the opportunity to witness the golden age of the Khmer Empire recreated through films, helping visitors understand the historical story of the Khmer people with full vivid images and sounds.
> > > While the Angkor National Museum offers a deep dive into the ancient history and culture of the Khmer Empire, nothing compares to experiencing the grandeur of the Angkor temples in person. Let’s explore some of the best Angkor tours to help you uncover the awe-inspiring beauty of these iconic ruins.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
The exhibition room of portraits of innocent people who were killed in the past
Address: 113 Street, Boeung Keng Kang III, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Opening hours: 8 AM – 5 PM
Entrance fee: $3-$5 per person
Located in the south of Phnom Penh, the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum preserves the most complete and authentic evidence of the dark history of the genocide of the former Khmer Rouge regime. Toul Sleng in Khmer means a poison hill – the name reflects its historical story. This place was originally a high school but was requisitioned to become the S21 Security Prison in 1975 to detain prisoners and innocent civilians. It can be said that Toul Sleng Prison is a horror for the Cambodian people and at the same time reveals the brutality of the Khmer Rouge genocide regime. That is why this place is considered “hell on earth”.
Today, Tuol Sleng has been renovated into a museum and has become a popular tourist destination to expose humanity to the genocide of the Khmer Rouge. Although time has passed, anyone who visits will feel terrified and heartbroken by what innocent people had to go through through the images and documents of the crimes that took place here, not to mention the glass cabinet containing thousands of skulls, maps made of human skulls and other barbaric torture instruments.
War Museum Cambodia
Some weapons and vehicles that were used in the war are displayed outdoors
Address: Kaksekam Village, Sra Nge Commune, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Entrance fee:
- Foreign visitors: $5
- Cambodian citizens: approximately $0.25
- The entrance fee includes a free guided tour, though donations to the guides are appreciated.
The Cambodian War Museum is an open-air museum located about 5 km from Siem Reap city. If visitors can usually only see war vehicles such as tanks and helicopters in movies, now at the Cambodian War Museum, you will be able to see them directly at a very close distance. Some of the artifacts include T-54 tanks, MiG-19 fighter jets, Mil Mi-8 helicopters and guns used by the D-44 division of the Cambodian army. Through this, visitors can better understand the heroic war that lasted nearly 3 decades in Cambodia.
In addition, visitors can also see dozens of weapons used in World War II. The most special feature of this museum is that the guides are veterans who have knowledge and practical experience in the war. Visitors can hear many interesting stories or battle experiences from them.
Mrs. Bun Roeung’s Ancient House
This house is a well-preserved example of traditional Khmer architecture and culture
Address: 800 Street, Wat Kor Village, West River Bank, Krong Battambang, Cambodia
Opening hours: 9 AM- 5 PM
Entrance fee: Free
The Bun Roeung Old House is a testament to the rich cultural mosaic of Krong Battambang, Cambodia. The museum is housed in an ancient house that has been passed down through three generations, inviting visitors to step back in time and explore the local history and heritage. As you wander through the hallways, you will encounter many exhibits showcasing traditional Cambodian life, from handcrafted artifacts to detailed displays that tell stories of the past. Every corner of the house is filled with charm, making it the perfect place for photography enthusiasts and history buffs.
The museum is dedicated not only to preserving the history of the area but also to promoting local crafts. Visitors often leave with unique souvenirs, including handicrafts that reflect the artistry of Cambodian culture. Knowledgeable staff are always happy to share insights and stories about the artifacts, helping you better understand and appreciate the items on display.
Cambodia Landmine Museum
The museum displays a wide variety of bombs, mines, and weapons found throughout Cambodia after the war
Address: 67, Phumi Khna, Banteay Srei District, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Opening hours: 8 AM – 5 PM
Entrance fee: $5 for foreigners. Children under 12 and Khmer adults are free
Cambodia Landmine Museum is a popular destination in Siem Reap, second only to the Angkor Wat temple complex. The museum features displays of weapons and wartime ordnance. Visitors will encounter mines, mortars, booby traps, etc. that have been recovered from various parts of the country. It aims to educate visitors about the impact of landmines and the importance of mine clearance in Cambodia.
The museum tells the story of Aki Ra and the history of landmines in Cambodia. In the years since the end of the civil war, Aki Ra has worked to clear as much of the ordnance as he could. He began to keep them and create a small museum. Money raised at the museum will go to fund relief centers for children and families affected by landmines.
> > > Visiting museums is a great way to learn about Cambodia’s history, but to truly experience the country, consider exploring it through one of the many exciting tours available. Let’s look at some of the top Cambodia tours you can take.
Angkor Panorama Museum
A 360-degree exhibit showcasing the grandeur of Angkor’s history
Address: Road 60, Sangkat Slor Kram, Krong Siem Reap, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Opening hours: 8 AM – 9 PM
Entrance fee: $20 per person, including a guided tour
Six and a half kilometres from Angkor Wat, at the intersection of Road 60 and Apsara Road, the North Korean-built Angkor Panorama Museum is now open. The museum took five years and $24 million to build, chronicling the construction, prosperity and protection of the Angkorian civilization. The rectangular museum has a central circular room that surrounds a 13-metre-high, 120-metre-wide mural of life during the Angkorian era. Visitors can climb the stairs in the middle of the room to get a better view of this giant painting.
Some helpful tips when visiting museums in Cambodia
These tips will help ensure you have a comfortable and respectful visit while gaining a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s fascinating history and culture:
- Most museums do not have a specific dress code, but you should still dress modestly and respectfully when visiting, especially war museums like the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, to show empathy and respect.
- Although opening hours are clear, they can sometimes be affected by holidays or special events, so if you are visiting a museum during these times, please confirm opening hours via the museum hotline or website.
- Museums mostly accept cash payments, so don’t forget to prepare some in advance. You can also buy tickets in advance on the website or through agents.
- Some museums have photography restrictions, especially those containing religious, cultural or personal artifacts. Always follow the signs or instructions from the museum staff about taking photos.
Hopefully, with this list of Cambodia’s top 7 museums, you’ll be inspired to dive deeper into the country’s rich history and culture. Each museum offers a unique glimpse into the rich history, art, and traditions that make Cambodia so special. Contact us today to plan your journey to these fascinating destinations.
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