Royalpalace, Toul Sleng (S21), Museum & Killing Field

Phnom Penh’s historical sites offer an unparalleled window into Cambodia’s tumultuous past. From the Royal Palace’s stunning architecture to the haunting remnants of the Khmer Rouge regime at Toul Sleng, these landmarks hold immense significance. The National Museum’s remarkable collections and the Killing Fields’ poignant memorial stupa provide a profound educational and emotional experience for visitors. This tour promises an impactful exploration of the country’s complex history, leaving one with a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s resilience.

Key Points

• The tour covers visits to the Royal Palace, Toul Sleng (S21) prison, National Museum, and the Killing Fields, providing insights into Cambodia’s history and Khmer Rouge atrocities.
• The tour is approximately 10 hours long and offers savings of up to 20% with prices ranging from $28 to $35 per person.
• Entrance fees for the individual sites, including the Royal Palace, National Museum, Wat Phnom, Toul Sleng, and Killing Fields, are not included in the tour price.
• The tour includes a 1.5-hour visit to the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, a 1.5-hour visit to the National Museum, and a 3.5-hour visit to the Killing Fields.
• Comfortable clothing, long-sleeved shirts for the Royal Palace, and mental and emotional preparation for the Killing Fields visit are recommended for the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour includes visiting the Royal Palace, Toul Sleng (S21), the National Museum, and the Killing Fields, and it offers savings of up to 20% with prices ranging from $35.00 to $28.00 per person.

The 10-hour tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option is available.

Entrance fees for the sites are additional and cover the Royal Palace ($10), National Museum ($10), Wat Phnom ($1), Tuol Sleng ($5), and Killing Fields ($3).

Lunch isn’t included but is at the traveler’s expense.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with an 8:00 AM pickup from a designated location in Phnom Penh.

The tour begins with an 8:00 AM pickup from a designated location in Phnom Penh.

Guests will visit the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, spending 1.5 hours exploring the ornate architecture and cultural exhibits.

Next, they’ll discover the impressive National Museum’s collections from the Angkor period over 1.5 hours.

After sightseeing at Wat Phnom for an hour, the tour continues to the sobering Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, formerly a high school turned prison, where visitors learn about the Khmer Rouge’s atrocities for 1.5 hours.

Following a lunch break, the tour culminates at the Choeung Ek Killing Fields for a 3.5-hour visit.

Historical Context of Tuol Sleng (S21) and Killing Fields

Tuol Sleng (S21) was a high school that the Khmer Rouge regime had converted into a notorious prison during its rule from 1975 to 1978. Here, approximately 17,000 people, including infants, were taken from S21 to the Choeung Ek Killing Fields for execution. The Killing Fields contain over 8,000 skulls displayed in the Memorial Stupa, erected in 1988 to commemorate the victims.

| Tuol Sleng (S21) | Choeung Ek Killing Fields |

|—————–|————————–|

| Converted from high school | Over 8,000 skulls in Memorial Stupa |

| 17,000 people executed | Established in 1988 |

| Infants among victims | Site of mass killings |

| Part of Khmer Rouge regime | Grim reminder of atrocities |

| Notorious prison | Solemn place of remembrance |

Inclusions and Additional Costs

The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a tuk-tuk driver, and a professional guide who’ll provide bottled water throughout the day.

Entrance fees for the Royal Palace, National Museum, Wat Phnom, Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, and Choeung Ek Killing Fields are all covered.

All entrance fees for major Phnom Penh attractions, such as the Royal Palace and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, are included in the tour package.

However, lunch isn’t included, so visitors will need to cover their own meal expenses.

While the initial tour pricing is reasonable, additional entry fees can add up.

Visitors should also note that the long tuk-tuk ride to the Killing Fields may be uncomfortable for taller individuals.

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Visitor Attire and Recommendations

When visiting the sites on this tour, visitors are recommended to wear comfortable clothing.

Long-sleeved shirts are required for entry to the Royal Palace. Sleeveless shirts aren’t allowed.

The tour involves extensive walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. Bringing a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses can help protect against the tropical sun.

Plus, the visit to the Killing Fields may be emotionally challenging, so visitors should be prepared mentally and emotionally.

Following these guidelines will ensure a more enjoyable and respectful experience throughout the tour.

Tour Ratings and Reviews

Travelers who’ve experienced this comprehensive tour of Phnom Penh’s historical sites generally rate it highly, with an overall score of 4.7 out of 5 based on their reviews.

Most praise the knowledgeable guides who provide insightful historical context at each location. However, some taller individuals found the long tuk-tuk rides to the Killing Fields uncomfortable.

Plus, visitors note that extra entry fees can add up beyond the initial tour pricing. The tour is considered an excellent way to explore Cambodia’s sobering past while also visiting iconic landmarks like the Royal Palace and National Museum.

Advantages of Reserve Now & Pay Later Option

With the reserve now & pay later option, travelers can secure their spot on the comprehensive Phnom Penh tour without having to pay the full amount upfront.

This flexible payment method allows for more budgeting flexibility, as travelers can reserve their tour and pay closer to the travel date.

Plus, this option provides the peace of mind of locking in the discounted rate of up to 20% off while still having time to finalize travel plans.

Locking in the discounted rate of up to 20% off while finalizing travel plans provides peace of mind.

The reserve now & pay later option makes this historical tour more accessible and convenient for a wider range of travelers.

Considerations for Tuk-Tuk Rides to Killing Fields

While the reserve now & pay later option offers scheduling flexibility, some travelers note the long tuk-tuk rides to the Killing Fields may be uncomfortable, especially for taller individuals.

The tour includes a 3.5-hour visit to Choeung Ek, but the journey there can take over an hour each way by tuk-tuk. Tuk-tuks have limited legroom, which could pose challenges for guests of above-average height.

Plus, the ride may be bumpy and dusty, so those prone to motion sickness should consider this. Travelers should weigh their personal comfort level when booking this tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Available in Multiple Languages?

The tour is available in multiple languages, including English. Depending on the guide’s availability, the tour can be conducted in other languages like French, German, or Japanese, providing a more personalized experience for international travelers.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Individual Preferences?

The tour can be customized to individual preferences, allowing guests to focus on specific sites or modify the itinerary. Travelers should consult with the tour provider to discuss any customization options.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Special Accommodations for Children?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, and it can accommodate children. However, the content at Tuol Sleng and Killing Fields may not be suitable for young children. The tour provider can arrange special transportation or guides for families with kids.

How Safe Is the Tuk-Tuk Transportation During the Tour?

The tuk-tuk transportation during the tour is generally safe, though some travelers have mentioned that longer rides to the Killing Fields may be uncomfortable for taller individuals. The tour provider ensures the tuk-tuks are well-maintained and drivers are experienced.

Can Visitors Bring Their Own Food and Drinks to the Sites?

Visitors can bring their own food and drinks to the sites, though lunch is not included in the tour price. Bottled water is provided, but all other outside food and beverages are permitted during the tour.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a profound and educational experience, exploring Cambodia’s tumultuous past through the lens of the Royal Palace, Toul Sleng (S21), National Museum, and Killing Fields. Visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the nation’s history while being deeply moved by the poignant memorials and artifacts. The tour is a must for those seeking to understand Cambodia’s complex and tragic history.

You can check availability for your dates here: