Location: Siem Reap
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5 Specialty Museums in Siem Reap That You Shouldn't Miss
When the morning light washes over the overgrown temples and ruins of Angkor Wat, a simple Siem Reap sunrise becomes a profound event. The ancient structures are contained within one of the largest religious complexes in the world. The complex and the 12th century Angkor Thom royal city are considered the main reasons to visit Siem Reap. Get a lesson in national history at the Cambodian Cultural Village, and a lesson in bargaining at the Angkor Night Market, a bonanza of shopping stalls, food vendors, and bars.
Restaurants in Siem Reap
1. Peace Museum of Mine Action
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 7 reviews
The Peace Museum of Mine Action supports Peace and Development through Landmine/UXO Clearance in Cambodia. This Museum is the first under the direction of CMAC (Cambodian Mine Action Center) the authority responsible for clearing UXO in Cambodia. The museum contains a huge selection of Explosive Remnants of War and offers guided tours on the history of conflict and offers guided tours.
2. Cambodia Landmine Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,480 reviews
The Landmine Museum was founded by ex-child soldier Aki Ra as a way to tell the world about the horrors landmines had infilcted on his native Cambodia. He used the proceed to clear landmines wherever he could find them. In the process of clearing small, remote villages, he began bringing home wounded and orphaned children that he and his wife raised as their own, along side their own children. Today the Museum not only tells Aki Ra's unique history and the history of landmines in Cambodia, but it is also home to over two dozen abandoned, orphaned or destitute children. All are cared for, housed, fed, educated and given a future they would otherwise never have had.
Reviewed By SarahUKUSA - Los Angeles, United States
I have visited Cambodia Landmine Museum many times over the years. It is well worth it is as a timely reminder of how Cambodia was severely affected by land mines and bombing, and how the Cambodian people have been affected in the aftermath, especially in the rural areas. It's one thing to read the statistics but another to see exactly what caused so much destruction. Here you can see up close the mines themselves and other munitions (the volume of exhibits is staggering), and learn why they are so challenging to clear. What is inspiring is that local de-mining teams associated with the museum are working tirelessly to clear areas that are still mined, in order to make their communities safe. On the safe land schools are now being built by the local people - with the help of local and international support. Villages and communities are being transformed. The museum is compact, very well-organised and in a tranquil setting. I have taken guests who are always very moved by what they experience and in my opinion it's as important as Tuol Sleng and the Killing Fields if one wants to understand Cambodia's tragic history and ongoing recovery efforts. Guides are available and there are information boards throughout. In addition to the information presented, I always find it a place of reflection on the cruelty of war, that continues long after the fighting ends. If you are fortunate to meet Jill and Bill Morse, who founded the museum and remain dedicated to land mine clearance efforts, their story and those of the people they work with, will touch your heart. I know first hand that many visitors return home inspired to become part of this tremendous mission - to raise awareness and eradicate land mines in Cambodia. It can be done, with help! Consider watching the uplifting documentary 'Until They're Gone' (on Amazon and other platforms) to learn more. A lovely shop on-site offers unique mementos and some interesting gifts that can't be found elsewhere in Cambodia! Since the museum is located a little ways out of the town of Siem Reap (easy for any guide or driver), I recommend combining the Museum visit with Banteay Srei and other temples in the area that are less crowded than Angkor.
3. Angkor National Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,277 reviews
Angkor National Museum - The Legend Revealed During the Golden Era of the Khmer Kingdom, one of the ancient civilizations of this world was being created. It was the origin of Khmer art, culture, and architecture. These great inventions became one of the few wonders of the world that still amaze people throughout generations that still hold a great impact in present Cambodia society. Angkor National Museum takes pride in revealing the royal historical path of this Golden Era of the Khmer Kingdom through state of the art multimedia technology to provide visitors a full pictorial story of the legend for easy comprehension. Angkor National Museum will take its visitors through the journey back in time from the creation to the highest point of Khmer civilization. Through the use of interactive exhibits, visitors will develop a deeper understanding of customs, traditions and different beliefs of the ancient empire.
Reviewed By SEMARA77 - Siem Reap, Cambodia
I came to this museum twice, what a great place , i learn so much about khmer history and beyond, the artifacts are great collection, after visiting angkor wat this this a must place to go, than you will got complete circle of knowledge about it, i strongly suggest you rent the audio tape guidance, its help you enjoy the museum much more- love it..
4. MGC Asian Traditional Textiles Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 14 reviews
Museum showcases costumes, fabrics traditional and contemporary trends. Museum also explains about the cultural relations between the two rivers Ganga and Mekong through the textiles. There are picture narrative describing myths and traditionals, also in a do it myself corner the visitors can feel, touch and understanding the processes of making textiles.
Reviewed By 1VoiceInTheCrowd - Hudson River Valley, United States
This museum gave the impression that it was not often visited (in fact, we were the only guests there, and had personal attention from our guides: different ones for each section of the small museum). As lovers of textiles, both my husband and I appreciated the beautiful/colorful examples of the various materials, and the detailed information about them, as well. As a nice surprise, they had a small display of handmade jewelry that had been created by some of the staff, at extremely reasonable prices that certainly no one could pass up. It was especially fun to find out that I had chosen a necklace that was made by one of our guides. Even though we did not speak the same language, he could see how much I liked my necklace, and I could see how pleased he was to be acknowledged as an artist. It is too bad that they don't have an official gift shop - this is a missed opportunity on their part to sell textiles to customers who would really appreciate them. Maybe if enough of us ask for it?
5. ArtBox
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 340 reviews
Visit the biggest-scale trick art museum in the world, ArtBox Trick Art Museum in Cambodia! Enjoy a fantastic experience with friends, lovers and family at Siem Reap's emerging landmark. Explore landmarks from around the world, without having to deal with potential hot or rainy weather. Check out more than 150 life like art pieces inside the museum, each sure to make for impressive photos and light show. You will be happy enough. Ticket: adult - 9.9$, child - 6.6$ Note Child ticket: Age 6-11 Children aged 0-5 may enter free of charge
Reviewed By nathancY7056LD - Oslo, Norway
Great to kill a few hours, best place to take some photos for social media and to remember your trip to siem reap! Would come again, wasn't busy when we was here so was a bonus! But is big enough for alot of people to be taking photos at once.
