Bon Om Touk 101: Top 7 Things to Know About Cambodia’s Water Festival

Bon Om Touk, aka the Cambodian Water Festival, is hands down the biggest, splashiest party in Cambodia! Every year, this vibrant celebration draws millions of locals and travelers, all ready to dive into the country's rich cultural traditions (and maybe get a little wet). Curious about its fascinating origins, or just need tips to make the most of the fun? No worries, this guide has you covered— let’s grab your poncho and get ready for some serious water-filled excitement!

Written by Preetika Narula (Local Expert)Updated on 04-10-2024

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1 What is Bon Om Touk? 

Bon Om Touk is Cambodia's most lively water festival, celebrating the unique reversal of the Tonle Sap River's flow. During the monsoon season, the river flows backward from the Mekong into Tonle Sap Lake, depositing rich sediments that support farming. Once the monsoons end, the river flows back into the Mekong, signaling the end of the rainy season and the beginning of a fertile, bountiful harvest.

Rooted in Cambodia’s deep history, Bon Om Touk is said to date back to the reign of King Jayavarman VII in the 12th century, commemorating his navy’s victory over the Cham in a pivotal battle on Tonle Sap Lake. This festival honors Cambodia’s vital waterways and the nation's dependence on these rivers for survival.

It’s also a thanksgiving to the river goddess, Preah Mae Kongkea, for her blessings of water and fish, both essential for Cambodia's agricultural and fishing communities. Bon Om Touk is celebrated with great excitement, from boat races in Phnom Penh to festivities throughout the countryside, offering a glimpse into the heart of Cambodian culture.

2. When and Where to experience Cambodia Water Festival

• When is Cambodia Water Festival?

The timing of Bon Om Touk is determined by the lunar calendar, specifically the full moon of the Buddhist month of Kadeuk, which falls between late October and early November. 

The festival typically lasts for three days. In 2024, it will be held from November 14 to 16,  and from November 4 to November 6 in 2025. The full moon is believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the coming harvest season.

>>> Read more:

• Visiting Cambodia in October
• Cambodia in November

• Where to see Cambodia Water Festival in Cambodia?

While it is celebrated in every corner of Cambodia, the most colorful and ostentatious celebrations take place in Phnom Penh, the country's capital. Millions line up on Sisowath Quay, lining the Royal Palace, to watch the famed boat races, light-laden floats, fireworks, and general merrymaking.

Siem Reap hosts colorful celebrations along the Siem Reap River, complete with boat races, traditional performances, and fairs. It is also a well-known city because it is close to Angkor Wat.

Local festivals are also held in the other provinces along the Tonlé Sap and Mekong Rivers in Battambang, Kampong Cham, and Kratie. Each location provides a different perspective on this festival, whether it be the bustling city of Phnom Penh or more intimate country gatherings.

• Choosing the best location

If you’re looking for the most spectacular and lively experience, Phnom Penh is the place to be. The capital city’s celebrations attract large crowds, with a full program of boat races, concerts, illuminated floats, and fireworks. 

Siem Reap provides a slightly more relaxed alternative, allowing travelers to combine the festival with visits to Angkor Wat. For those preferring a quieter experience, smaller towns along the Tonle Sap or Mekong offer an authentic and less crowded environment.

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3. How do Cambodians celebrate Cambodia Water Festival?

• The Boat Races

The main highlight of Bon Om Touk is the boat races, which have been a central part of the festival for centuries. Over 400 boats from villages all across Cambodia compete in these races along the Tonle Sap and Mekong Rivers. Each long, sleek pirogue can carry between 30 and 100 rowers, who practice for weeks in advance to perfect their technique. 

The races are competitive and hold great significance, as they not only represent local pride but also pay homage to Cambodia's ancient naval prowess. These boats, often decorated with dragons and adorned with bright village colors, are a spectacle in themselves.
The origins of the boat races date back to the reign of King Jayavarman VII, when the Khmer navy defeated the Cham in a decisive battle on the Tonle Sap. Since then, the races have symbolized both a commemoration of that victory and a way to honor Cambodia’s naval forces.

• Evening xelebrations: illuminated boats and fireworks

Once the boat races conclude for the day, the festivities move into the night with the Bandaet Pratip, the illuminated boat procession. These massive, intricately decorated boats are lit with thousands of colored lights and represent various government ministries, corporations, and organizations.

 As they glide along the river, the stunning visuals are accompanied by fireworks, turning the riverbanks into a dazzling display of light and celebration. The illuminated boats, traditionally thought to honor the water goddess, also symbolize gratitude for the rivers’ life-giving properties.

• Eating Auk Ambok: the rice flake tradition

Another important part of Bon Om Touk is Auk Ambok, a special dish made of flattened rice flakes mixed with coconut and banana. This dish is prepared to honor the full moon and is consumed at midnight on the last day of the festival. 

>>> For more information, please read: Cambodian Cuisine: Top 15 Unmissable Dishes!!

Cambodians believe that eating Auk Ambok while praying to the moon goddess Preah Mae Kongkea will bring good fortune and blessings for the coming year. Families gather in temples or in their homes to share this traditional food, making it a communal and spiritual part of the festival.

4. What to prepare

When planning to attend Bon Om Touk, it’s essential to be prepared for both the festivities and the crowds. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Comfortable Clothing and Shoes: Given Cambodia’s warm climate and the likelihood of spending long hours outdoors, wear lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes. If you plan on visiting temples, bring clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
• Sun Protection: The daytime boat races can be hot, so make sure to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Safety in Crowds: In Phnom Penh, the festival draws large crowds, especially around the Royal Palace. Be mindful of your belongings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items. Make sure you have a plan for keeping track of any companions.

5. Our practical tips

• Arrive early for the best viewing spots: If you want to catch the boat races or evening fireworks in Phnom Penh, arrive early to secure a good spot along the riverbanks. The best views of the illuminated boats and fireworks can be found near the Royal Palace.
• Enjoy street food: Bon Om Touk is a great time to try Cambodia’s vibrant street food culture. Vendors line the streets offering grilled meats, noodle dishes, desserts, and, of course, Auk Ambok.
• Accommodation and travel: Book your accommodation well in advance if you plan to stay in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, as hotels fill up quickly during the festival. 

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6. Exploring Cambodia beyond the festival

While Bon Om Touk is a highlight, Cambodia offers much more to explore beyond the festival. Siem Reap, with its awe-inspiring Angkor temples, is a must-see destination for history enthusiasts.

Battambang is known for its French colonial architecture and laid-back vibe, while Kampong Cham offers a glimpse into traditional riverside life. For beach lovers, head to the southern coast and explore the islands near Sihanoukville or the peaceful beaches of Kep.

For more information, please read:

• Battambang Travel Guide
• Sihanoukville: Your Ultimate Guide to Cambodia's Dream Beaches

7.  Vietnam’s water festivals: A Cambodian influence 

Did you know Vietnam’s Mekong Delta celebrates water festivals influenced by Cambodia? The region's proximity to Cambodia, especially in areas like An Giang, where many Khmer people live, makes it a hotspot for cultural exchange. The Ok Om Bok festival, celebrated in the Mekong Delta, closely mirrors Cambodia’s Bon Om Touk, showcasing these shared traditions.

Chau Doc in An Giang is an ideal starting point for those looking to experience both festivals. From here, a scenic 5-hour speedboat ride along the Mekong River takes you directly to Phnom Penh, providing stunning views of river life along the way.

If Cambodia isn’t on your itinerary, you can still opt for experiencing the vibrant celebrations in Southern Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. These local festivities, particularly within Khmer communities, reflect the rich cultural roots shared by both countries.

For a more immersive experience, consider planning a combined tour through Vietnam and Cambodia for the opportunity to celebrate the rich cultural heritage shared by these neighboring nations! 

>>>> Vietnam & Cambodia: The Ultimate Adventure Awaits 🌏✨

Final Thoughts

Bon Om Touk is an extraordinary festival that offers a thrilling blend of history, culture, and celebration. When paired with temple tours or extended trips to explore more of the country, Bon Om Touk provides a unique window into the heart and soul of Cambodian life. It's a vibrant cultural experience that shouldn’t be missed.

For travelers looking to further enrich their Southeast Asia journey, including Vietnam’s water festivals, such as Ok Om Bok celebrated by the Khmer community, offers a deeper exploration into the region’s shared heritage. Combining these experiences allows for a comprehensive understanding of the intertwined cultural traditions between Cambodia and Vietnam, making for a truly enriching travel itinerary!

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