Killing Fields Guided Half Day Tour from Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh , Cambodia

Killing Fields Guided Half Day Tour from Phnom Penh

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About this experience

The Killing Fields will bring you face-to-face with the brutal reality of the Khmer Rouge period. It was a death camp where the Khmer Rouge killed around 17,000 of their own people. Most of the victims were also prisoners of Tuol Seng, the former high school, which was transformed into a prison and place of torture. The Killing Fields is located 15km to the south-west of Phnom Penh, and allows you to glimpse into the horrors of this dark chapter of Cambodia’s history. We finish this tour with a cleansing ceremony at a local temple to honor those lost.

We recommend this tour for people aged 16 years and over, due to the confronting nature of the Killing Fields. Adults should use their discretion on the ability of their children to deal with this experience.

Available options

Killing Fields Guided Half Day Tour from Phnom Penh

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Bottled water

Entrance Fee’s

Coffee and/or Tea

Offering for Cleansing Ceremony

Private Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your day starts with a drive past the Independence Monument, which was built in 1958 to celebrate Cambodia’s independence from France. It is an icon of Phnom Penh. From here, you will take a visit to Lake Beungtompum Village, where you get a glimpse into a traditional village and the residents’ daily life.

While enjoying a local traditional snack from a road side stall, you will travel through the outer suburbs of Phnom Penh.

It’s a somber thought that these were the roads that were the last journey traveled by the victims as they were taken to the Killing Fields.

Upon arrival at the Killing Fields, you will undertake a self-guided tour with supplied audio accompaniment of this now-sacred place.

What's not included

Other personal expenses

Other activities

Tips, and all services not clearly mentioned

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Modest clothing with shoulders covered

About Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital of Cambodia, is a city rich in history, culture, and bustling markets. Known for its French colonial architecture, the Royal Palace, and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, it offers a unique blend of the old and the new, making it a compelling destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Royal Palace

The Royal Palace is the official residence of the King of Cambodia. It features beautiful Khmer architecture and is a must-visit for its historical significance and stunning design.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours 10 USD

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

Also known as S-21, this museum is a former school turned into a prison and torture center by the Khmer Rouge. It serves as a stark reminder of Cambodia's dark past.

Historical 1-2 hours 5 USD

Central Market

Also known as Phsar Thmei, this market is a great place to shop for souvenirs, clothes, and local food. The Art Deco building is an architectural gem.

Market 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary

Wat Phnom

This Buddhist temple is the namesake and heart of the city. It is believed to be the site where the first pagoda was built in Phnom Penh.

Religious 30 minutes 1 USD

National Museum of Cambodia

This museum houses a vast collection of Khmer artifacts, providing a deep dive into Cambodia's rich history and culture.

Museum 1-2 hours 10 USD

Must-Try Local Dishes

Amok

A creamy coconut curry with fish or chicken, steamed in banana leaves.

Main Dish Can be made with fish or chicken, vegetarian options available.

Lok Lak

Stir-fried beef with onions and a tangy lime-pepper dipping sauce.

Main Dish Typically made with beef, but can be made with other meats.

Nom Banh Chok

Rice noodles topped with a fish-based gravy and fresh herbs.

Breakfast Vegetarian options available with tofu.

Bai Sach Chrouk

Grilled pork with broken rice and pickled vegetables.

Breakfast Contains pork.

Popular Activities

Boat Tours Biking Hiking Spa Treatments Riverfront Promenade Coffee Shops Temple Visits Museum Tours

Best Time to Visit

November to February

This is the dry season with pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

22°C - 32°C 72°F - 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Khmer
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Cambodian Riel (KHR)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe with common sense

Phnom Penh is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious, especially at night and in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of tuk-tuk drivers offering tours or services, as they may overcharge or take you to overpriced shops
• Use reputable tour operators and agree on prices beforehand
• Keep valuables secure and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas

Getting there

By air

Phnom Penh International Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Phnom Penh Railway Station

By bus

Central Market Bus Station, Siem Reap Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Public buses are affordable but can be crowded and slow. Routes cover major areas of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PassApp, Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Riverside BKK1 Russian Market (Psar Tuol Tom Poung)

Day trips

Tonlé Sap Lake

150 km from Phnom Penh • Full day

A large freshwater lake known for its floating villages and unique ecosystem.

Kampong Cham

120 km from Phnom Penh • Full day

A riverside town with a mix of French colonial architecture and traditional Khmer temples.

Koh Dach Island

15 km from Phnom Penh • Half day

A peaceful island known for its silk weaving and rural landscapes.

Festivals

Khmer New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey) • April 14-16 Water Festival (Bon Om Touk) • November (dates vary) Pchum Ben • September/October (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat
Try local street food at the Central Market or Russian Market for an authentic experience
Take a tuk-tuk tour of the city to see the major attractions in a short amount of time
Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum for a sobering but important historical perspective
Explore the riverside area for great dining and nightlife options