The War Museum is located a short drive from the center of Siem Reap. It offers an educational experience about Cambodia’s turbulent history, especially focusing on the Khmer Rouge regime and the civil war that followed. It’s the largest war museum in Cambodia and provides insight into the country’s tragic past through a collection of weapons, military vehicles, and personal stories from survivors.
The museum houses an array of military equipment used during the civil war, including tanks, helicopters, fighter jets, artillery, and landmines. Many of these were left behind by both Cambodian and international forces, including the Soviet Union and the United States.
One of the most impactful exhibits is the section on landmines, showcasing the devastating impact they had on the Cambodian population.
Unlike many museums, visitors are encouraged to touch and interact with some of the equipment, making it an immersive experience. Walking among the tanks and weaponry gives a tangible sense of the scale and intensity of the conflict.
The War Museum Siem Reap is an important stop for those interested in learning more about Cambodia’s history, particularly its long road to recovery from war and the aftermath of the Khmer Rouge.
