Cambodia, Siem Reap - Wat Thmey (The Killing Fields)

A top sight in Cambodia that leaves a lasting mark is Wat Thmey (Killing Fields) in Siem Reap. Wat Thmey may not be one of Cambodia’s top attractions, perhaps overlooked or unheard of, yet it is where a painful chapter in the nation’s history is remembered.

Cambodia, bordered by Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam, has come a long way to where it is today. Nevertheless, it remains a nation shaped by grief. Once the heart of the mighty Khmer Empire, the country’s ancient roots still echo through its traditions, temples (ANGKOR WAT, CAMBODIA), and people’s resilience.

Beyond its historical depth, Cambodia has made its mark by attracting tourists from across the globe. History, culture, and authentic Cambodian food speak for themselves. Wat Thmey, or the Killing Fields, stands as a site where the dark past of Cambodia is preserved and told (AYUTTHAYA THAILAND). 

Located along Sivatha Road, just a short drive from Siem Reap’s city center, is Wat Thmey. It may not instantly catch attention and might appear as an unremarkable small area, with the Buddhist temple being the first thing in sight. Walk in - admission is free.

A few steps after crossing the road lead to the memorial, where silence begins. Inside a glass shrine are human skulls and bones. A haunting reminder of the victims who perished during the Khmer Rouge regime under Pol Pot from 1975 to 1979. Wat Thmey was once a prison and an execution site, where thousands of innocent Cambodians were brutally killed and buried in mass graves. The regime caused the deaths of an estimated 1.7 million people across the country.

Goosebumps rise, and it feels as if needles have pricked the heart. Words fall short when seeing the photo display next to the memorial. A poster-like display in glass cover, relating to the torture and suffering endured by the Cambodian people. Each image tells of the cruelty of that dark era, a history that may have faded with time but can never be erased.

To ease the solemn feeling, walk to the Buddhist temple within the same grounds. Stand still, bow, and offer prayers, perhaps alongside the monks and locals, as a mark of respect for those who perished.

A visit to Wat Thmey may only take around 30 minutes, yet it leaves a lasting impression. It is a reminder that travelling is not always about beautiful places or the best food. In Cambodia, The Killing Fields is a simple yet profound and impactful history to be remembered forever.
Wat Thmey also stands as a reminder to stay grounded.

 

A powerful site as part of sightseeing in Cambodia, reflecting how war, dictatorship, and power can leave scars that last for generations. Yet Cambodia has rebuilt and is moving forward, welcoming travellers from all over the world.