Cambodia Landmine Museum

The Cambodia Landmine Museum (and relief centre) is a deeply impactful educational museum located 25 km north of Siem Reap. Founded by former child soldier and CNN hero Aki Ra, it sheds light on the lasting impact of decades of conflict — Khmer Rouge, civil war — that have made Cambodia one of the most landmine-contaminated countries in the world.

Origin & Mission

Aki Ra's Journey: orphaned by the Khmer Rouge, a child soldier who laid thousands of explosives, he later hand-cleared them using handmade tools. The Collection: every weapon on display has been deactivated by him — the museum opened in 1999 in his home. Relief Centre: for over a decade, it has served as a home and school for children orphaned or maimed by landmines.

Exhibitions

Four covered galleries and an interactive outdoor space: displays of weapons (landmines, anti-tank mines, cluster bombs, mortars, traps) · dummy field to try spotting deactivated mines in the grass · international context and demining progress (NGOs like CSHD).

Practical Information

Phumi Khna, Banteay Srei district — on the road to Banteay Srei temple, about 45 minutes by tuk-tuk from the centre. 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM daily. ~5 USD for adults (free for under 10s and Khmer citizens) — proceeds go to demining and vulnerable communities. Audio tour via QR code or guided tours by reservation (48 hours in advance). Accessible, with toilets, Wi-Fi, and a shop. cambodialandminemuseum.org · landminemuseum89@gmail.com · +855 12 971 198.