Tourists Flock to Angkor Wat for Khmer New Year, Praising Peace, Safety Amid Regional Tensions
AKP Phnom Penh, April 15, 2026 —
Domestic and international tourists visiting the Angkor Archaeological Park have expressed delight and pride in experiencing the ancient complex during the ongoing Traditional Khmer New Year celebrations, praising its preservation, peaceful atmosphere, and well-managed environment.
According to reports from visitors arriving from various provinces and the capital, Angkor Wat is considered the oldest and most outstanding among ancient temple structures in the region. Many noted that they deliberately choose the Angkor resort area for major holidays, including the universal New Year, Pchum Ben (Festival for the Dead), and the Khmer New Year.
Despite ongoing challenges such as rising fuel prices and unresolved border issues with neighbouring country, visitors said that touring Siem Reap province remains a safe, peaceful, and proud experience. They highlighted that beyond Angkor Wat, the province offers numerous attractions without any sense of fear or insecurity.
Tourists also commended the orderliness of the Angkor site, the cleanliness of the environment, and the lush green landscape — even during the current hot summer season.
Data from the Department of Culture and Tourism of the APSARA National Authority showed that on the first day of the Khmer New Year (April 14, 2026), a total of 22,671 visitors toured the Angkor area. This included 20,580 domestic tourists and 2,091 international visitors.
It is noteworthy that the Siem Reap provincial authorities, in collaboration with the provincial Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia, have organised various cultural and recreational programmes in Siem Reap city beyond the Angkor Wat Temple complex during the three-day national holiday.



By K. Rithy Reak





