Water Festival

Siem Reap will come alive on Nov. 14-15 for its vibrant Water Festival, a lively celebration filled with a variety of activities that embrace Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage. Alongside the iconic boat races, which remain a highlight of the festival, visitors can partake in full moon salutations and taste traditional pounded rice dishes, symbolizing blessings and community unity. The enchanting lantern floats will also light up the evening sky, adding a magical touch to the festivities.

Beyond these traditional events, visitors can enjoy exhibitions showcasing local food and products, with stalls offering a taste of Cambodia’s unique flavors and craftsmanship. Concerts, cultural performances, and various forms of entertainment will fill the areas along the Siem Reap River, as well as key tourist sites, providing an exciting array of options for attendees.

This year’s festival aims to shine a light on the heart of Cambodian culture, with an expectation of drawing a diverse audience of both national and international visitors to the province. The Siem Reap administration warmly welcomes everyone to experience the festivities and has stressed the importance of maintaining order, security, safety measures, and cleanliness to ensure an enjoyable and respectful celebration for all.

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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!

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

Immerse yourself in the unique culture and lifestyle of Cambodia with the Floating Village Kompong Pluk Adventure. This captivating tour offers an authentic glimpse into the lives of the local communities living on the water, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Tonle Sap Lake.

Kompong Pluk Floating Village

Begin your adventure with a journey to Kompong Pluk, a charming floating village located on the Tonle Sap Lake. Kompong Pluk is renowned for its stilted houses, which rise up to ten meters above the water, providing protection from the seasonal flooding. As you explore the village, you’ll witness the daily activities of the residents, who depend on fishing and aquaculture for their livelihoods. The unique architecture and vibrant community life offer a fascinating insight into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for generations.

Mangrove Forest

A highlight of the Kompong Pluk Adventure is a visit to the nearby mangrove forest. During the wet season, you’ll glide through the submerged forest in a traditional wooden boat, navigating the labyrinthine waterways and soaking in the tranquil beauty of the surroundings. The mangrove forest is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including exotic birds, making it a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

Please contact our reception for more information.