Happy Khmer New Year 2024

Khmer New Year, also known as “Choul Chnam Thmey,” meaning entering the new year, is a national holiday hosted by Cambodians annually. It is the season when Cambodians have free time from harvesting rice and other agricultural commodities. The event is Cambodia’s largest event and lasts three days, on the 13th, 14th, or 15th of April (in a specific year, it could be on the 14th to 16th of April).

Cambodian New Year is celebrated just like other Asian New Year Festivals that blend history with religious practices, emphasizing and commemorating the seniors and ancestors. While there are merriments with traditional meals and beverages, the three days are packed with Buddhist compliance centered on performing gratitude, sending offerings to deceased family members, and contributing to those in need. The following preparations are exclusively made for the Khmer New Year.

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🌿 Kampong Khleang Nature Tourism Community
Location: Kampong Khleang Village, Kampong Khleang Commune, Sout Nikom District, Siem Reap Province, Cambodia about 52 km southeast of Siem Reap city and Sokchea Angkor Hotel.

Established in 2016, the community was formed in collaboration with local authorities and NGOs to support local livelihoods by developing sustainable ecotourism and promoting environmental conservation.

 

🌟 What You Can Experience
đź›¶ Canoe & Boat Tours
Ride canoes or wooden boats through floating villages, seasonally flooded forests, and the edge of the Tonlé Sap Lake.
Witness the daily life of fishing communities and their adaptation to water-based living.
🍲 Community Meals & Homestays
Enjoy traditional Khmer meals made from local ingredients (like sticky rice, palm sugar, and grilled fish).
Stay overnight with local families to immerse yourself in rural Cambodian life.
📚 Environmental Education
A portion of the income from tourism supports Bridge of Life School, clean water projects, and environmental education for locals and children.
đź“… Seasonal Features
Rainy Season (June–October): The entire village becomes a floating village with houses and boats gliding over the water.
Dry Season (November–May): The water recedes, exposing “wooden skyscrapers” — tall stilt houses that rise dramatically above the dry land.
đź’˛ Tour Options & Pricing
Option Description
Group Tours: Daily departures with guides, canoe trip, and village visit & Price Range 38–45 USD
Private Tours 5.5-hour full experience, including school visit, pagoda, and Tonlé Sap sunset view & Price Range $60 USD
Custom Packages: Add-on services like Khmer cooking class, extended homestays, or community volunteering: & Price Range Varies
âś… Best For
Activity, What You’ll Gain
Canoe/Boat Ride: Explore ecosystems, learn about floodplain living and aquatic biodiversity
Environmental Study: Get insights from community guides about seasonal flooding and sustainable adaptation
Community Support: Help fund local education and clean water through responsible tourism
Local Culture: Participate in Khmer traditions like fishing, cooking, and temple visits
🌍 Community Impact
The project actively improves livelihoods, education, and environment.
It’s known for being a more ethical alternative to over-commercialized floating villages like Chong Khneas.
Revenues are reinvested into the community through infrastructure, schooling, and clean water access.

As the first stars appear over the ancient temples of Angkor, join us for an unforgettable celebration of light, hope, and renewal. From April 14–16, 2025, the west moat of Angkor Wat will transform into a shimmering dreamscape for our magical Lantern Floating Ceremony**—the crown jewel of **Angkor Sankranta’s Khmer New Year festivities.

Imagine this: The warm glow of countless lanterns reflecting on still waters, the scent of frangipani in the evening air, and the soft murmur of prayers and laughter as thousands come together in celebration. This is your moment to write your hopes on paper, light your lantern with care, and release it to join this radiant dance of light**—each flickering flame carrying dreams for the coming year.

More than just a beautiful spectacle, this **centuries-old tradition represents the enduring spirit of Cambodia. As your lantern drifts peacefully across the water, you’ll be surrounded by the timeless grandeur of Angkor Wat, where ancient stones whisper stories of the past while we celebrate the future.

Why Attend?
✔️ Experience one of Cambodia’s most breathtaking cultural events
✔️ Participate in a profound, meditative ritual of renewal
✔️ Create lasting memories with loved ones under the stars
✔️ Immerse yourself in the magic of Khmer New Year at its most spectacular

Special Tips:
– Arrive before sunset to secure the best spot and watch the transformation from day to night
– Wear comfortable, respectful clothing in light colors (perfect for photos!)
– Bring a camera—you’ll want to capture every luminous moment

Don’t let this chance slip through your fingers like grains of temple sand. Whether you’re seeking spiritual connection, cultural immersion, or simply one of the most beautiful nights of your life, Angkor Sankranta 2025 awaits.

Your lantern is waiting. Your moment is now.
Join us for this extraordinary celebration where ancient traditions meet new beginnings. 🪔✨

#AngkorSankranta2025 #LanternCeremony #KhmerNewYear #CambodiaTravel

Discover the Art of Khmer Ceramics During Your Stay in Siem Reap

Khmer ceramics are more than just beautiful pottery—they are a vibrant part of Cambodia’s cultural heritage. During your stay at Sokchea Angkor Hotel, you’ll have the chance to dive into this ancient art form and experience its magic firsthand. Just a short trip from the hotel, you can visit local workshops or the Khmer Ceramics Center, where talented artisans craft stunning pieces using techniques that have been perfected over centuries.

At these workshops, you’ll witness the artistry behind each creation, learn about the fascinating history of Khmer ceramics, and even get the chance to roll up your sleeves and create your own masterpiece.  It’s a hands-on, immersive experience that’s perfect for travelers of all ages-whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking to try something new.

Pro Tip: Our friendly hotel staff is always ready to help you plan your visit to the best ceramic workshops in Siem Reap. Let us guide you to an unforgettable cultural adventure!

Take Home a Piece of Cambodia: Souvenir Shopping Guide

What better way to remember your trip to Cambodia than with a piece of its rich cultural heritage? Khmer ceramics are the perfect souvenir—beautiful, meaningful, and uniquely Cambodian. From elegant tea sets and bowls to intricate decorative pieces, these handcrafted items are a testament to the skill and creativity of local artisans. During your stay at Sokchea Angkor Hotel, our concierge team is here to help you find the best places to shop for authentic Khmer ceramics. Whether you’re looking for a small keepsake or a stunning centerpiece for your home, we’ll guide you to trusted local shops and markets where you can find high-quality, handmade treasures. Did you know? By purchasing Khmer ceramics, you’re not just taking home a beautiful souvenir—you’re also supporting local artisans and helping to preserve Cambodia’s traditional crafts for future generations.

 

Call to Action: Ready to find the perfect piece? Ask our concierge for personalized recommendations on where to buy the best Khmer ceramics and other unique souvenirs in Siem Reap. We’re here to make your shopping experience seamless and enjoyable!