Cambodia's 7 Great Festivals Not to Be Missed

Cambodia is not just about the majestic temples of Angkor. Festivals are an integral part of the rich Khmer cultural legacy of this nation. These occasions, whether they are accompanied by somber religious ceremonies or vibrant celebrations, provide a singular chance to get fully immersed in Cambodian social and spiritual life.

Written by Preetika Narula (Local Expert)Updated on 04-03-2025

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Table of contents

1. Khmer New Year (Chol Chnam Thmey)
2. Meak Bochea
3. Vesaka Bochea
4. The Royal Ploughing Ceremony/ Preah Reach Pithi Bonn Chrot Preah Neangkol
5. Pchum Ben Festival
6. Independence Day of Cambodia
7. Bon Om Touk (Water Festival)
The best places to experience the festive atmosphere in Cambodia

1. Khmer New Year (Chol Chnam Thmey)

Dates: April 13–15
Locations: Angkor Sankranta (Siem Reap), Wat Phnom (Phnom Penh)

In Cambodia, the most significant holiday of the year is the Khmer New Year, also known as Chaul Chnam Thmey. According to the traditional Khmer calendar, it signifies the change from the dry to the rainy season. In addition to celebrating the new year, families use this time to gather, clean and decorate their homes, and take part in a number of customary activities.

Many businesses and services temporarily close during these joyous days as many Cambodians head back to their hometowns to rejoice with their families. Nonetheless, tourists can still experience the joyous ambiance by going to the Buddhist pagodas, where a number of customary rites and ceremonies are performed, including religious discourses and prayers, bathing of Buddha statues, offerings, building of sand mounds, artistic performances, and popular games.
It is a fantastic chance to learn about Khmer culture and experience the ideals of reverence for ancestors and togetherness, which are fundamental to Cambodian society.

apsara dance — *The Apsara dance, a traditional Khmer dance, is often performed on New Year's Eve*

>>> Learn more about All about the Khmer New Year

2. Meak Bochea

Date: 3rd lunar month (typically late February to early March in the Gregorian calendar)
Location: Official government ceremony at Preah Sakyamoni Chedi, Oudong Mountain, Kandal Province.

One of the most significant Buddhist holidays in Cambodia is Meak Bochea. It honors the day that Buddha delivered his first lesson, which was a crucial turning point in the dissemination of his priceless teachings. In addition to drawing a large number of Buddhist believers, this occasion holds special significance for the monks.

On this day, the country's temples are animated by solemn rituals. The candle ritual is one of the most noteworthy events; as a symbol of respect, worshippers light candles and parade around the temple. At the center of this festival are prayers, hymns, and teachings that encourage everyone to clear their thoughts and advance on the path to spiritual enlightenment.
Meak Bochea is a unique moment for introspection and the growth of a moral and upright life in addition to being a chance to worship Buddha.

Only in a few Theravāda Buddhist nations, including Cambodia, Thailand, and Laos, is this holiday observed. Don't pass up this exceptional chance to learn more about this spiritual tradition if you are currently visiting Cambodia.

3. Vesaka Bochea

Date: 17th day of the lunar month (corresponding to May in the Gregorian calendar)
Locations: Preah Reach Trop Temple (Phnom Penh), Angkor Wat (Siem Reap)

One of the holiest days in Buddhism, Vesaka Bochea is observed not just in Cambodia but also in many other Buddhist nations. Three significant occasions in the life of the Buddha are honored by this festival: his birth, his enlightenment, and his ascension into Nirvana.

cambodia festivals — *The festival of Vesaka Bochea is important not only in Cambodia, but also in other Buddhist countries.*

On this day, Buddhist worshippers participate in prayers, listen to teachings, and perform acts of generosity to accumulate merit. One of the most significant traditions is the offering of food, clothing, and other essential goods to monks, as a sign of respect for Buddhist precepts.

Experience the authentic festive atmosphere of Cambodia by visiting the highlights:

4. The Royal Ploughing Ceremony/ Preah Reach Pithi Bonn Chrot Preah Neangkol

Date: 5th month of the lunar calendar
Location: Royal Square (Phnom Penh)

The Khmer kings established the ancient Cambodian royal rite known as Preah Reach Pithi Bonn Chrot Preah Neang Kol, which is still observed by the current monarch. This ritual marks the start of the rice planting season and represents the expectation of a bountiful crop.

Buddhist monks offer prayers at the start of the ceremony, requesting blessings for the harvest season. The start of the field work is then depicted as the King and Queen lead the holy oxen in three revolutions as they plough a field.

Another important moment of the ceremony is the choice of the royal oxen, who must choose from several offerings such as rice, corn, beans, water or wine. Royal soothsayers predict the timing and success of harvests based on what people choose.

This ceremony, full of cultural and agricultural symbols, shows the strong bond between royalty and the Khmer people, while highlighting the importance of agriculture in Cambodian society.

5. Pchum Ben Festival

Dates: 15 days, from the 15th to the 30th day of the 9th lunar month (usually in September or October)
Location: Wat Phnom Temple (Phnom Penh)

Pchum Ben, also called the "Ancestors' Day", is a celebration deeply rooted in Cambodian culture. The 15-day festival is a time when Cambodians pay homage to their ancestors over seven generations by offering prayers and offerings in pagodas. It has similarities to the Day of the Dead in Mexico, a time when families gather to honor the memory of the deceased.

It is commonly believed that the festival's first day signifies the opening of the gates to the afterlife, which permits wandering souls to accept offerings from the living. Throwing rice and sesame seeds on the temple floor is one of Pchum Ben's most famous customs; it is intended to satisfy hungry souls and provide them serenity.
Many Cambodians use this time to remember the victims of the Khmer Rouge dictatorship (1975–1979), a terrible period in the nation's history.

6. Independence Day of Cambodia

Date: November 9
Location: Norodom Avenue, Phnom Penh

Cambodian Independence Day, observed annually on November 9, commemorates Cambodia's independence from France in 1953. It is a momentous occasion when people across the country unite to celebrate national sovereignty and the spirit of freedom.

*Independence Day in Cambodia is celebrated in the capital, Phnom Penh*

One of the most significant moments of the day is the lighting of the Victory Flame at the Independence Monument in the heart of Phnom Penh. This ceremony, attended by thousands of people and national leaders, symbolizes Cambodia's hard-won sovereignty. The festive atmosphere is brought to life with cultural performances and grand parades through the streets, showcasing national pride and the unity of the Khmer people.

*The fireworks show on the night of the anniversary of independence*

When night falls, the sky of Phnom Penh lights up with colorful fireworks, creating a lively atmosphere to mark the country's most important holiday.

7. Bon Om Touk (Water Festival)

Dates: Three days in November (based on the lunar calendar)
Location: In front of the Royal Palace, Phnom Penh

Bon Om Touk, also known as the Boat Racing Festival, celebrates the unique reversal of the Tonle Sap River’s flow. This marks the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the fishing season, a crucial time for the Khmer people. The festival is a vibrant and deeply rooted tradition featuring thrilling boat races, cultural performances, and nationwide celebrations.

*The bustling atmosphere at the Bon Om Touk festival on the banks of the Tonle Sap River in Phnom Penh*

The colorful boat races along the Mekong River, which attract hundreds of teams from all around the nation, are the festival's main attraction. Thousands of residents and visitors line the riverbanks, cheering with enthusiasm as these longboats, which are exquisitely painted, are occupied by enthusiastic paddlers who engage in heated competition.

*The boat racing activity during Bon Om Touk attracts many people*

The event is not only recreational, but also has deep spiritual significance: it is a prayer for a bountiful harvest in the coming year, as well as a thank you to the water gods for providing fertile water and sediment during the rainy season.
▶️💥Prepare your trip this time: Cambodia weather information in November

The best places to experience the festive atmosphere in Cambodia

Phnom Penh

The capital of Cambodia, it is the place where many temples and the royal palace are concentrated. It is the political and cultural center of the country, where you can experience a unique festive atmosphere, especially on important dates such as Pchum Ben and Bon Om Touk. You can take part in ceremonies at the temples, sample the local cuisine, and explore the unique architecture of the royal palace. Read more: What to see and do in Phnom Penh?

Tonle Sap

Tonle Sap is one of the most famous places for people's lives in floating villages. You can join tours to explore the unique life of the locals and experience the festive atmosphere at the riverside temples. In particular, Bon Om Touk, the water festival, is an occasion to enjoy lively activities and festivals along the shores of Tonle Sap Lake.

Siem Reap

Siem Reap is home to the Angkor Wat temple complex, one of the world's cultural heritage sites. It is the ideal destination to experience the festive atmosphere during occasions such as the Khmer New Year. Learn more: Guide to Exploring Siem Reap

Sihanoukville

Sihanoukville is a coastal city famous for its recreational activities on the beach. You will have the opportunity to enjoy fresh seafood and learn more about the festive atmosphere in the daily lives of the local people. Learn more: Guide to Exploring Sihanoukville

Koh Rong

Koh Rong is an island with some of the most beautiful beaches in Cambodia. It's the perfect place to relax and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere after participating in festivals. You can join outdoor activities and enjoy the spectacular natural beauty.

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Our last words

Experiencing the festive atmosphere in Cambodia is an opportunity to connect with its rich culture, interact with locals, and better understand this Southeast Asian country.

If you are planning to visit Cambodia, don't forget to contact Kampá Tour for a personalized experience according to your tastes, without having to worry about the details of your trip. Cambodia's festivals are waiting to be discovered!