Ep 12. Curse of the Golden Bell

In the twelfth episode of Expedition Unknown's first season, titled "Curse of the Golden Bell," host Josh Gates heads to Cambodia in search of the truth behind a local legend. The tale tells of a cursed golden bell that was stolen and hidden in the jungle by the Khmer Rouge regime during the 1970s, leading to the untimely deaths of anyone who had come into contact with it.

Gates starts his search by visiting local temples in search of information about the golden bell, but he quickly finds that the people here are reluctant to talk about it. Many locals still believe in the curse and fear retribution if they speak out. But Gates is persistent and manages to get a few clues, including the location of an old Khmer Rouge stronghold deep in the jungle.

Gates and his team set out on a grueling trek through the dense jungle to reach the location, which is said to be near a temple where the golden bell was originally housed. As they make their way through the rough terrain, Gates speaks with local experts who share their own theories and stories about the golden bell. Some believe it was hidden by the Khmer Rouge to protect it, while others think they were simply trying to use it for their own gain.

Once they reach the stronghold, Gates and his team find evidence of the Khmer Rouge's presence, including bunkers, weapons and other items left behind. But despite their thorough search, they are unable to locate the golden bell. Gates remains undeterred, however, and continues his search.

Back in Phnom Penh, Gates meets with a historian who shares some unexpected information about the golden bell. He explains that it was not always used for religious purposes and that it may have actually served as a communication device for the king's army. This new information sends Gates and his team on a different path, as they begin to look for other areas where the bell might have been used for communication purposes.

After another grueling trek through the jungle, Gates and his team finally find the spot where the golden bell was last seen. They excavate the area and make an incredible discovery that sheds new light on the mysterious artifact. Gates speaks with experts who confirm the authenticity of the find and sheds new insights into the history of the golden bell.

Throughout the episode, Gates also highlights the impact of the Khmer Rouge regime on Cambodia and its people. He speaks with locals who lived through the brutal regime and highlights the importance of preserving the country's history for future generations.

In the end, "Curse of the Golden Bell" is a fascinating journey through history and legend, as Josh Gates and his team work to uncover the truth about the mysterious golden bell and its curse.