War Museum Cambodia

Overview

The War Museum Cambodia is an open-air museum on the outskirts of Siem Reap displaying military hardware and personal stories from Cambodia's decades of conflict, covering the Khmer Rouge era, the Vietnamese occupation, and the subsequent civil war.

Highlights

• Military Hardware: Tanks, armoured vehicles, artillery pieces, helicopters, and MiG fighter jets displayed outdoors.
• Personal Stories: Guides are often former soldiers who share first-hand accounts of the war years.
• Landmine Garden: A sobering display showing the types of mines still found in Cambodian soil.

History

Founded in 2001, the museum collects weapons and vehicles that would otherwise rust in the jungle. It aims to preserve the memory of Cambodia's turbulent 20th century — from the American bombing campaigns of the 1970s through the Khmer Rouge genocide and the prolonged civil war that followed.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: A guided tour is highly recommended for context — the exhibits are minimally labelled.
• Tip 2: Allow extra time if your guide shares personal wartime experiences.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.