Khmer New Year: Large crowds in Siem Reap with 800,000 visitors

The province of Siem Reap enjoyed a lively celebration of the Khmer New Year on the first day (14 April), attracting around 800,000 visitors, including Cambodian and foreign tourists, as well as local residents.

This remarkable figure was reported by Mr Thim Sereyvuth, acting director of the provincial department of tourism of Siem Reap.

The highlight of the festivities was the very popular event ‘Angkor Sankranta’, which attracted around 760,000 participants.

This celebration took place in several emblematic locations, including the majestic temple of Angkor Wat, the Royal Garden, the picturesque riverside area and the lively Pub Street. This number included 4,537 international tourists who came to discover Cambodia's unique cultural traditions.

Beyond the main events of Angkor Sankranta, other major attractions in Siem Reap province also saw a sharp increase in visitor numbers. The Phnom Kulen region, of great spiritual significance, welcomed around 4,500 people in search of cultural and natural immersion. The iconic Tonlé Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, attracted around 6,500 visitors eager to discover its unique ecosystem and floating villages. The calm, clear waters of the Baray (reservoir) allowed around 4,000 people to escape.

In addition, various community-based tourist sites and holiday resorts in the province welcomed a total of around 15,000 visitors, showcasing the region's diverse attractions.

The remarkable influx of visitors underlines Siem Reap's enduring status as a top destination for cultural immersion and leisure, particularly during the Kingdom's most cherished traditional holidays.

The high turnout is a testament to the province's rich heritage, breathtaking scenery and the captivating spirit of the Khmer New Year celebrations.

AKP