War Museum Cambodia - a large white and red building sitting on top of a lush green field
1 / 10

War Museum Cambodia

4
·2k reviews·ក្រុងសៀមរាប, Cambodia

A powerful museum showcasing Cambodia's civil war history with real military relics and personal accounts from ex-soldiers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning or late afternoon

Avoid midday heat

CrowdLow
Loading map...
War Museum Cambodia - a large white and red building sitting on top of a lush green field

War Museum Cambodia

Best Time

Morning or late afternoon

Avoid midday heat

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A powerful museum showcasing Cambodia's civil war history with real military relics and personal accounts from ex-soldiers.

4
(2k reviews)

"An eye-opening experience with personal stories that hit hard and leave you thinking."

Vertical photo
TIP

Engage with the Guides

Ex-soldiers offer invaluable insights. Their personal stories make the exhibits come alive. :speech_balloon:

Allocate About an Hour

It's not a huge museum, but the impact is significant. Perfect for a break from temple hopping. :stopwatch:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Military Vehicle Graveyard

Military Vehicle Graveyard

Outdoor exhibits

Explore a vast collection of tanks, artillery, and aircraft remnants from the civil war era.

Personal Stories of Survival

Personal Stories of Survival

Indoor museum section

Hear firsthand accounts from ex-soldiers about the war's impact and their experiences.

Ordnance and Storyboards

Ordnance and Storyboards

Small hut at the back

Discover displays of explosive ordnance and detailed storyboards about their devastating effects.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Understand the Impact

This museum offers a stark look at Cambodia's recent history. Prepare for emotionally resonant exhibits and personal stories that highlight the country's resilience. It's a powerful complement to the temples.

Timing is Key

While not a massive site, the War Museum Cambodia can be impactful. Allocate about an hour to explore the outdoor exhibits and the indoor displays, especially if you engage with the guides.

Best Times

When
Morning or late afternoon
Why
Avoid midday heat
Crowd
Low
When
Anytime
Why
Impactful regardless of time
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Cambodia War Museum

Engage with the Guides

Ex-soldiers offer invaluable insights. Their personal stories make the exhibits come alive. :speech_balloon:

Allocate About an Hour

It's not a huge museum, but the impact is significant. Perfect for a break from temple hopping. :stopwatch:

reddit.com

Booking the killing fields, genocide museum and prison s21

reddit.com

Travel Tips to Cambodia

Prepare for the Climate

Many exhibits are outdoors and exposed to the elements. Expect rust and wear, which adds to the raw feel. :sunbehindcloud:

Consider the Admission Fee

$5 USD is considered fair by many for the historical value and personal accounts. :moneybag:

reddit.com

Went to the War Museum in Siem Reap, Cambodia. 2 hours of Tanks, Grenades, rifles, and other instruments of war. Seeing these guys on the way out was the highlight of my visit.

Tips

from all over the internet

Engage with the Guides

Ex-soldiers offer invaluable insights. Their personal stories make the exhibits come alive. :speech_balloon:

Allocate About an Hour

It's not a huge museum, but the impact is significant. Perfect for a break from temple hopping. :stopwatch:

Prepare for the Climate

Many exhibits are outdoors and exposed to the elements. Expect rust and wear, which adds to the raw feel. :sunbehindcloud:

Consider the Admission Fee

$5 USD is considered fair by many for the historical value and personal accounts. :moneybag:

What Travellers Say

4
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the War Museum Cambodia to be an eye-opening and impactful experience, offering a stark look at the country's recent history. The personal stories shared by ex-soldier guides are frequently highlighted as deeply moving and insightful. While some note the exhibits are weathered and information is sparse, the raw authenticity and historical significance are widely appreciated.

"Checked out the War Museum in Siem Reap and it was a really eye-opening experience. Walking through the old tanks, helicopters, and weapons on display gave a real sense of Cambodia’s past struggles. What made it even more meaningful were the personal stories shared about the war and its impact on everyday life. It’s not a huge place, but it hits hard and leaves you thinking. Definitely worth a visit if you want to understand more about the country beyond the temples."

Dr. Subhasree Ray

"i found it extremely interesting to see these leftovers from the civil war. i first visited in 2019 before Covid and found it very fascinating, although the gentleman who is now there as a guide was not there, it was still captivating, though the gentlemen did truly give much insight into how it was. i am of the age where all this is familiar to me and happened in an era of history that i am more than acquainted with. Some of the weapons being made in the US are also recognizable to me. This was the weaponry of the war in Vietnam, which i was vehemently opposed, to and did not take part in, which it seems i was right in. i am opposed to war but i am fascinated by man's creativity when it comes to machines and mechanisms a tribute to his inventiveness, but not necessarily always for good.
The exhibits were quite a bit degraded since my first visit, probably due to the climate, and lack of upkeep, perhaps because of funding issues, possibly due to regulations concerning the rifles and small arms, and rust is taking its toll, but it doesn't lessen the impact but speaks to the immediacy of seeing this while it is still recognizable. I say this as someone who spent 3 years working at a museum, a children's museum, no less, and i am well-acquainted with the upkeep and maintenance issues which take place in an unsupervised place where everything is out in the open, do not touch signs being somewhat inadequate when dealing with people who may not speak English or just plain ignore signs. i noticed a review with a picture of a grenade launcher being handled, there are probably more examples."

Greg Ochylski

"To break up the monotony of visiting the various temples in Siem Reap (which quite frankly all blend into one another after awhile), I decided to pay this place a visit and wasn't expecting much so I can't say I was disappointed.

It's more of a war relics junkyard than a museum as all the pieces on display have been left to rot and perish out in the elements, but it's still quite cool (in a geeky kind of way) to have a look at the various pieces on display.

As others have mentioned, there's not a whole lot of information on offer but the only area where that differs is the small museum at the far back corner which has displays of explosive ordinance along with storyboards detailing the horrors that they wreak, long after the battles and wars have finished.

I personally think the $5USD admission is a bit high for what's on offer but then again, it's worth it if you've got 30-45mins to kill and don't want to go see another temple or get another massage.

For those that have even a passing interest in military related subjects, then the price of admission is easily justified.

I'd rate it 3 stars, not because it's an average attraction, more so that I feel indifferent about it and would neither recommend or discourage someone from visiting it.

It exists to serve a purpose so it's your decision whether it fits yours."

APH Pixels

What People Like

Impactful personal stories
Collection of military hardware
Authentic historical context

What People Dislike

Weathered exhibits
Limited information plaques

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The War Museum Cambodia is located just north of Siem Reap town, along the road towards the Angkor complex. You can easily reach it by tuk-tuk or taxi from your accommodation. Many visitors combine a visit here with their temple tours. Reddit

Yes, it's situated on a main road and is quite accessible by local transport. The outdoor exhibits are on flat ground, though some areas might be uneven. Reddit

A tuk-tuk ride from Pub Street is a popular and affordable option. The journey takes about 10-15 minutes. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The admission fee is typically around $5 USD per person. This price is generally considered reasonable for the experience offered. Reddit

Information on specific discounts can vary, but it's always worth inquiring at the ticket counter. Reddit

Tickets are usually purchased on-site upon arrival. There's no need to book in advance. Reddit

The museum is generally open daily from morning until late afternoon, typically around 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It's best to confirm current hours upon arrival. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You'll find a significant collection of military vehicles, artillery, and weaponry from Cambodia's civil war. There are also indoor exhibits with storyboards and personal accounts. Reddit

Yes, ex-soldiers often serve as guides and share their personal experiences, which is a highly recommended part of the visit. Reddit

While some exhibits are outdoors and weathered, it's generally advised not to touch them to preserve them. Look for 'do not touch' signs. Reddit

Most visitors spend about 1 to 1.5 hours exploring the museum, especially if they engage with the guides. Reddit

The exhibits depict the realities of war, which can be intense. Parental discretion is advised for younger children. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted for personal use in the outdoor areas. Check for any restrictions inside the indoor museum sections. TikTok

The imposing military vehicles and artillery pieces in the outdoor display are very photogenic. The storyboards inside also offer unique visual elements. Instagram

Be mindful of any signs indicating no-photography zones, especially in areas with sensitive displays or personal artifacts. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The War Museum Cambodia offers a unique educational opportunity, but parental discretion is advised. While the large military vehicles might capture a child's imagination, the exhibits and personal stories can be intense and emotionally charged. Consider discussing the nature of war and its consequences beforehand. The outdoor setting is good for kids to move around, but ensure they understand the importance of not touching the exhibits. TikTokReddit

Focus on the historical aspect and the resilience of the Cambodian people. The guides, often ex-soldiers, can sometimes simplify their stories for younger audiences, making the experience more accessible. It's a chance to teach children about history in a tangible way, emphasizing peace and understanding. Reddit

🤔 History Buffs & Curious Travelers

For those with a keen interest in military history or the modern history of Southeast Asia, the War Museum Cambodia is a must-visit. The collection of artillery, tanks, and aircraft provides a tangible link to the conflicts that shaped Cambodia. The opportunity to hear firsthand accounts from former soldiers adds an invaluable layer of depth and authenticity to the experience. Reddit+1

Don't expect a highly curated, museum-style presentation. Instead, embrace the raw, open-air display and the personal narratives. The museum serves as a powerful counterpoint to the ancient wonders of Angkor, offering a comprehensive view of Cambodia's multifaceted past. It’s a place that sparks contemplation and deepens one's understanding of the nation's journey. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding Cambodia's Recent History

The War Museum Cambodia in Siem Reap provides a crucial, albeit somber, perspective on the nation's turbulent past. Unlike the ancient temples that draw millions, this museum focuses on the more recent conflicts, particularly the Khmer Rouge regime and the subsequent civil war. The exhibits are a stark reminder of the human cost of these events, featuring a collection of military hardware that tells a story of conflict and survival. It's a place that encourages reflection and a deeper understanding of Cambodia's journey towards peace. Reddit+1

The war museum siem reap is not just about the machinery of war; it's about the people who lived through it. Many of the guides are former soldiers who share their personal testimonies, offering a deeply moving and authentic account of their experiences. These firsthand narratives are what truly elevate the visit, transforming a collection of relics into a powerful testament to resilience. Visitors often describe these interactions as the most impactful part of their visit, providing a human dimension to the historical artifacts. TikTokReddit

While the cambodia war museum siem reap might not have the polished presentation of larger international museums, its raw authenticity is its strength. The outdoor exhibits, exposed to the elements, show the wear and tear of time, which some reviewers note adds to the immediacy of the experience. The small indoor section with storyboards detailing the horrors of ordnance further emphasizes the lasting impact of war. It’s a vital stop for anyone seeking to comprehend the complexities of modern Cambodian history beyond the tourist trail. InstagramReddit

Navigating the Exhibits and Guides

The war museum cambodia is primarily an outdoor exhibition space, showcasing a variety of tanks, artillery pieces, and aircraft remnants. These imposing machines, weathered by time and climate, stand as silent witnesses to past conflicts. While the sheer scale of the hardware is impressive, many visitors note that information plaques are sparse. This is where the cambodia war museum phnom penh (though a different location, the context of war museums is similar) and Siem Reap's museum truly shine: through their human element. Reddit

The real value of the cambodia war museum siem reap lies in its guides, many of whom are survivors of the conflict. They offer personal anecdotes and historical context that bring the exhibits to life in a way no plaque can. Engaging with these individuals provides a profound and often emotional understanding of Cambodia's recent history. Their stories are a powerful reminder of the human cost of war and the incredible resilience of the Cambodian people. TikTokReddit

When visiting, be prepared for the tropical climate, as most of the exhibits are exposed to the sun and rain. This can lead to significant rust and degradation of the machinery, which some find detracts from the presentation, while others see it as a testament to the passage of time and the harsh realities faced. Regardless, the cambodia war remnant museum experience is designed to be thought-provoking and educational, offering a stark contrast to the serene beauty of the Angkor temples. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2