Known as ‘the butcher’, Ta Mok was the chief of staff for the Khmer Rouge during the 1960s, until he was promoted to commander of the Southwestern Zone.
During his reign of terror, Ta Mok was responsible for countless atrocities and became so paranoid about his personal security that he built himself a house in the middle of a large lake.
According to local belief, Ta Mok designed the elaborate house himself, which he fitted with hidden rooms and escape passages. However, he was so afraid that knowledge of the treasures within his house would become public that he had the architects executed after each floor was completed.
Visiting Ta Mok’s house is a rather eerie experience. Although surrounded by natural beauty, the house itself stands in stark contrast to its environment. A number of murals adorn the walls within the house, as well as maps and wildlife scenes.
Sadly, most of the furnishings within the house have been looted, with only the floor tiles serving as a testimony to the riches that once filled the house of Brother Number Five.
Although most visitors opt to take a taxi, it is also possible to hire a bicycle in Anlong Veng and use peddle power to reach Ta Mok’s house. Visitors need to head north from the Doves of Peace roundabout for around two kilometers, turn right and continue for 200 meters, past the tourism information hut.
Getting There
Take a taxi or hire a bicycle from the town of Anlong Veng (25 to 40 minutes). Anlong Veng is accessible from Siem Reap by taxi or bus.
Need to Know
- What is it? The former residence of one of the Khmer Rouge’s most infamous leaders.
- Opening hours: 08:30 to 17:30, daily.
- Entrance fees: $2
- Nearest town: Located in Anlong Veng, Cambodia a couple hours north of Siem Reap and the Angkor Temples.