π Khmer New Year in Cambodia β A Festival of Culture, Family & Water Fun!
Khmer New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey) is one of the most vibrant and meaningful celebrations in Cambodia. Held every April 13β16, this three-day festival marks the traditional end of the harvest season and the beginning of a new year, filled with blessings, joy, and cultural richness.
π When is Khmer New Year Celebrated?
Khmer New Year typically falls on April 13β15, but celebrations often extend for a full week. It aligns with the solar new year and is celebrated throughout Cambodia with nationwide holidays.
π Day 1: Moha Sangkran
This marks the official New Yearβs Day. Cambodians clean their homes and visit temples to light incense, offer prayers, and make traditional offerings to bring good luck.
π Day 2: Virak Vanabat
The second day is about giving. Families make charitable donations, offer gifts to elders, and remember their ancestors with prayers and ceremonies.
π¦ Day 3: Vearak Loeng Sak
This is the most exciting part! Itβs time for water fights, traditional games, and dancing. Young people splash water on each other to βwash awayβ bad luck and bring blessings for the new year.
π Why Visit Cambodia During Khmer New Year?
Authentic Culture: Experience one of the oldest and most sacred Cambodian traditions.
Street Celebrations: Enjoy traditional music, food stalls, and public water fights in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Battambang.
Community Spirit: See families reunite, monks bless people in temples, and locals welcome travelers with kindness.
π‘ Travel Tips for Khmer New Year Visitors
Book early: Buses, hotels, and flights fill up fast.
Bring waterproof gear: If youβre in town, expect to get wet!
Respect traditions: Dress modestly when visiting temples and be mindful of sacred rituals.
Join the fun: Locals love when tourists participate in the water games!
π Where to Celebrate Khmer New Year?
Phnom Penh: Street parties near Wat Phnom, Independence Monument & riverside.
Siem Reap: Pub Street and Angkor Sangkran Festival inside Angkor Archaeological Park.
Battambang: Famous for its traditional games and community events.
βοΈ Plan Your Trip with Us!
Looking to experience Khmer New Year in Cambodia? At Soprita Travel, we provide:
Tailor-made tours
Visa extension & travel services
Local guides and cultural experiences
π Contact us today to start your unforgettable Khmer New Year journey!
π +855 89 666 068 | βοΈ info@soprita.com
π www.soprita.com
Khmer New Year Cambodia
Choul Chnam Thmey Festival
Celebrate Cambodian New Year
Traditional Khmer culture
Cambodian holidays April
Things to do during Khmer New Year
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