Over 1.6 million Throng Phnom Penh on Second Day of Khmer New Year
AKP Phnom Penh, April 16, 2026—
Over 1.6 million people packed Cambodia's capital on Wednesday for the second day of the Khmer New Year, with authorities reporting a peaceful and festive atmosphere across six major venues.
The event known as "Norkor Sankranta" drew 1,583,307 domestic revelers and 17,940 foreign tourists on April 15, according to Phnom Penh Municipal Administration spokesperson Ms. Dor Samphors.
Celebrations for Vireak Wanabat— the traditional second day of the New Year — unfolded at sites including a newly opened site at the former Phnom Penh International Airport, Wat Phnom, the Cultural Village, Vattanac Park, former Freedom Park, and the Chaktomuk Walk Street stretching from the Night Market to the Royal Palace.
No major security incidents were reported. The six-day Nokor Sankranta, organised by the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia and municipal authorities, runs through April 19 and features more than 20 cultural performances, traditional games, religious ceremonies, and concert stages.


By K. Rithy Reak





