Cambodia Welcomes 21.8m Tourists During Four-Day Khmer New Year Celebration

• Sommana Yan
• 18 April 2024
• Local News
• 2733 Views

Throughout the four-day Khmer New Year celebration, from 13 – 16 April, Cambodia played host to an impressive influx of tourists, both domestic and international, totalling 21.8 million visitors. This significant turnout reflects the nation’s enduring appeal as a cultural and tourist destination, with particular hotspots emerging in provinces such as Kampong Cham, Prey Veng, and Kampong Speu.

The latest statistics shared on Prime Minister Hun Manet’s official telegram on 18 April 2024, underscore the vibrancy of Cambodia’s tourism sector during this festive period. Compared to the previous year’s New Year celebration, which spanned three days, the increase in tourist numbers is striking, with a surge from 13.13 million to 21.8 million visitors nationwide, including a total of 21,702,816 domestic tourists and 110,322 foreign tourists.

Leading the charge in tourist attraction were the provinces of Kampong Cham, boasting 5,349,811 tourists, Prey Veng with 2,298,402 tourists, and Kampong Speu province welcoming 2,103,915 tourists. This widespread interest in exploring Cambodia’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage highlights the nation’s allure as a premier travel destination.

A key factor contributing to this surge in tourism was the Royal Government’s initiative to organise Sankaran festivities across all capitals and provinces, drawing crowds to villages, communes, and districts nationwide. This concerted effort to showcase Cambodia’s rich traditions and hospitality played a pivotal role in attracting visitors from far and wide.

While the total number of tourists reached a staggering 21.8 million, only 30% of visitors opted to extend their stay beyond a single night. Nonetheless, the widespread participation in Khmer New Year celebrations underscores the resilience and appeal of Cambodia’s tourism sector, positioning the nation as a top choice for travellers seeking enriching cultural experiences.

• Tourism and Travelling