Smile of Cambodia to Angkor Wat for cultural celebration

The eagerly awaited “Smile of Cambodia” event will return to Angkor Wat on October 29-30, as part of the Visit Siem Reap 2024 initiative.

This annual celebration honors Khmer heritage through captivating performances, vibrant exhibitions, and culinary experiences, drawing both local and international visitors. The event aims to reinvigorate post-pandemic tourism while showcasing the country’s cultural wealth.

Organized by the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, with the support of the Khmer Artists Association (KAA) and other key partners, it serves as a homage to Khmer art and culture.

Seth Kimsoeun, advisor to the KAA, explained that this year’s event is spearheaded by the Ministry of Culture, which is acting as the primary organizer, producer, and manager, in collaboration with the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia [UYFC] in Siem Reap.

The festival promises a spectacular celebration with over 500 artists bringing to life the grandeur of the Angkorian Empire, particularly focusing on the royal deeds of King Jayavarman VII.

Opening with a formal ceremony at 7:30am on October 29, the event will include a full day of traditional Khmer performances, exhibitions, and a majestic parade honoring the past kings of the Khmer Empire, all set against the iconic backdrop of Angkor Wat.

Attendees will be treated to live reenactments depicting key moments from Cambodia’s ancient history, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural legacy.

In addition to the performances, visitors can explore exhibitions showcasing Khmer cuisine, traditional attire, and art. These exhibitions aim to preserve ancient artistic traditions while creating a lively, festive atmosphere. A special feature of the celebration will be the Ting Mong tournament, a traditional puppet performance unique to Cambodia.

A major attraction of the event is the focus on Khmer cuisine. Attendees will have the chance to enjoy a variety of authentic Cambodian dishes, with international guests wearing traditional Khmer attire receiving complimentary food as a gesture of hospitality.

The event will also feature influencers and content creators who will help promote Cambodian heritage on social media, broadening awareness of the country’s rich cultural offerings.

As part of broader efforts to revive tourism in Siem Reap, home to the legendary Angkor Wat temple, the “Smile of Cambodia” plays a crucial role in promoting cultural tourism.

Seth Kimsoeun noted that the event highlights two major activities: performances by more than 500 artists celebrating the Angkorian Empire, and the “Smile of Cambodia” program, which showcases Khmer arts, food, fashion, and culture, all while creating an inviting atmosphere for visitors.

The event aims to draw international attention to Cambodia’s cultural tourism sites and help boost tourism through the end of 2024 and beyond into 2025.

Running from 9am to 6pm on both days, the event promises an entire day of dynamic cultural experiences against the magnificent backdrop of Angkor Wat.

For visitors, the festivities offer a rare opportunity to experience the beauty of Khmer art, culture, and cuisine, while contributing to the revival of Cambodia’s tourism industry.

The event is expected to provide an unforgettable blend of ancient history and modern cultural celebration, all in one exceptional experience.

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Also called Ancestor’s’ Day, Pchum Ben is, according to legend, a time where spirits of deceased relatives and ancestors walk the earth. Running for 15 days, usually towards the end of September or October, the fifteenth day of the tenth month of the Khmer Calendar marks one of the most traditional and colourful festivals in Cambodia with people dressing up in traditional clothing to visit their local pagodas with food and offerings and pay respect to their ancestors.

Pchum Ben can also be translated to ‘gathering together to make offerings’, and that’s exactly what families do when they visit the pagodas.

Enjoy your wonderful family reunion!

Experience the Thrill of Angkor Zipline: Adventure in the Heart of Angkor Park

If you’re looking to combine the beauty of nature with an unforgettable adrenaline rush, Angkor Zipline is a must-visit adventure nestled deep within Cambodia’s world-famous Angkor Archaeological Park. Just a short drive from Siem Reap, this eco-adventure offers a unique and exhilarating way to explore the lush tropical forest canopy surrounding the ancient temples. With a strong emphasis on safety, environmental conservation, and community engagement, Angkor Zipline isn’t just about excitement—it’s about connecting with nature and supporting sustainable tourism in one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic destinations.

Angkor Zipline features a series of thrilling zip lines, sky bridges, and tree platforms that give you a bird’s-eye view of the jungle below. You’ll soar through the forest like a gibbon, gliding between trees and witnessing the incredible biodiversity that thrives in this protected area. From butterflies and exotic birds to rare flora, the jungle is alive with color and sound. Depending on the package you choose, your adventure can include up to 10 zip lines, multiple hanging bridges, and even a controlled abseil descent. Each course is guided by trained professionals who not only ensure your safety but also provide interesting facts about the local ecosystem and Angkor’s natural history.

Angkor Zipline in Siem Reap

What truly sets Angkor Zipline apart is its commitment to conservation and sustainability. The entire experience is designed to have minimal environmental impact, with platforms built without harming the trees and strict policies in place to protect the habitat. In addition, the company works closely with the local community by providing employment opportunities, supporting education initiatives, and sourcing materials locally whenever possible. This means that every ticket purchased contributes to preserving Cambodia’s cultural and natural heritage.

The location within Angkor Park also makes this experience incredibly special. Few places in the world offer the chance to zip line just a stone’s throw away from ancient ruins that date back to the 12th century. After your zipline adventure, you can continue your day by exploring iconic temples like Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm, all located within a short distance. It’s the perfect way to balance adventure with cultural immersion.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or a curious traveler looking for something beyond the usual temple tours, Angkor Zipline offers a safe, family-friendly, and environmentally conscious adventure that will be one of the highlights of your trip to Cambodia. With various packages available for all ages and skill levels, including half and full-day options, there’s something for everyone. So gear up, take a deep breath, and get ready to fly through the treetops of one of the most awe-inspiring places on earth. Angkor Zipline isn’t just an activity—it’s an experience you’ll remember for a lifetime.

View of Phnom Krom at Dusk: Sunset Serenity Near Siem Reap

While most visitors to Siem Reap rush to catch the famous sunrise over Angkor Wat, few realize that some of the most peaceful and breathtaking views in Cambodia happen at the end of the day—particularly at Phnom Krom. Located about 12 kilometers south of the city, Phnom Krom offers a magical setting to witness the sun dip below the horizon. Watching the sunset from this hilltop temple is a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring, offering quiet beauty, expansive views, and a glimpse into Cambodia’s serene countryside life.

Phnom Krom is a small hill rising from the flat plains near Tonlé Sap Lake. At its summit stands an ancient temple, built in the late 9th century during the reign of King Yasovarman I. Though modest in scale compared to Angkor Wat, the temple ruins of Phnom Krom have a unique charm. Timeworn stones, faded carvings, and crumbling towers lend the place a sacred, peaceful atmosphere that becomes even more enchanting as the day fades into night.

As you ascend the hill—either by motorbike, tuk-tuk, or a short climb on foot—you’ll start to see the sky changing colors. Dusk at Phnom Krom is not only beautiful but also calm. The warm glow of the setting sun lights up the stone temple in golden hues, while the surrounding landscape shifts into soft shadows. Below, the vast Tonlé Sap Lake glimmers in the fading light, and local fishing boats begin returning to shore, creating a picture-perfect scene that feels straight out of a painting.

Unlike the busy sunrise spots around Siem Reap, Phnom Krom at dusk remains largely untouched by crowds. Most tourists have returned to town for dinner, leaving this sacred hilltop peaceful and often nearly empty. This allows visitors to experience the temple and surrounding nature in solitude, making it an ideal destination for couples, photographers, or anyone simply looking for a quiet moment to reflect.

For photographers, the view at dusk offers spectacular opportunities. The soft lighting, colorful sky, and reflections over the water create stunning compositions. Bring a tripod for low-light shots, and arrive around 5:00 PM to catch the full range of changing colors. If you’re lucky, you might witness birds flying across the lake, silhouetted against the vibrant horizon.

Getting to Phnom Krom is easy from Siem Reap. A tuk-tuk ride takes about 25–30 minutes, and the drive itself is a pleasant journey through local villages and rice fields. There is usually no entrance fee, though occasional guards may be present. As the path can be uneven and there are no lights after dark, it’s best to start heading down shortly after sunset to ensure a safe return.

If you’re planning your trip to Siem Reap and want to experience something truly peaceful, don’t miss the chance to visit Phnom Krom at dusk. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or in a small group, it’s a quiet escape that offers spiritual beauty, stunning views, and a unique way to connect with Cambodia beyond the main tourist routes.

Make Sokchea Angkor Hotel your home during your Siem Reap adventure—just minutes away from hidden gems like Phnom Krom and offering comfort, culture, and warm Cambodian hospitality.