AKP Phnom Penh, November 05, 2025 –-

With this year’s Water Festival (Bon Om Touk) celebrations in Phnom Penh cancelled, a significant influx of domestic tourists is expected to travel to provincial destinations.

The Royal Government of Cambodia has suspended the traditional boat races and other major festivities in the capital due to the situation along the Cambodian-Thai border.

However, the government has confirmed that provincial celebrations may proceed in accordance with local customs and capacities.

Key tourism regions expected to receive high numbers of visitors include cultural sites in the northern provinces, coastal destinations in the southwest, and eco-tourism areas in the northeastern regions.

Provincial authorities have prepared a wide range of entertainment programmes to bring joy and excitement to local residents as well as national and international tourists travelling during the three-day national holiday.

Activities include boat races, local product exhibitions, food fairs, concerts, and Khmer boxing matches, along with other traditional events such as lantern lighting ceremonies to pray for prosperity for Cambodian families and the nation.

AKP correspondents in various provinces have reported lively scenes and captured photographs showing crowds of domestic and international tourists enjoying entertainment and festive programmes on the first day of the holiday, which runs from Nov. 4 to 6.

“These events are organised with the aim of promoting the provincial tourism sector and contributing to local economic growth by encouraging the use of Khmer products,” the Ministry of Tourism stated.

In anticipation of the large number of travellers, the Ministry has instructed local authorities nationwide to maintain high standards of security and hygiene to ensure that this year’s festival is a safe and memorable national holiday for both citizens and international visitors.

Annually, Cambodia organises the Water Festival to mark the end of the monsoon season, convey appreciation to nature, especially water, for the productive harvests, and commemorate the country’s rich culture and long history.

In 2024, the Water Festival attracted nearly 7.85 million domestic and international tourists, representing a 21.4 percent increase in national visitors and a 28.7 percent increase in foreign visitors compared to 2023.

By Chea Vannak