Top 7 Cambodian festivals to experience in 2025

Cambodia is not only a country with many fascinating tourist attractions and a diverse culture but also the birthplace of many traditional festivals. When traveling Cambodia, don’t forget to experience these unique and vibrant celebrations!

Festivals of Cambodia: A blend of culture and spirituality

Every year, as the festival season approaches, people from across Cambodia come together to celebrate. Influenced by Buddhism, ancient royal customs and Hinduism, these events highlight the country’s rich culture. Here are 7 must-see traditional festivals of Cambodia in 2025.

Choul Chnam Thmey festival (Cambodian new year)

Thmey, also known as the Cambodian new year celebration, is a three-day festival held in mid-April, marking the end of the Cambodian harvest season. Families gather to clean their homes, visit temples and make offerings. Traditional games, water fights and lively street celebrations fill the atmosphere.

During this time, people honor their ancestors, seek blessings from monks and enjoy special dishes like kralan (sticky rice in bamboo). Each day of the festival has unique customs, from welcoming the New Year’s angel to performing acts of charity.

📌Date: April 14 - 16

Pchum Ben (Ancestors' day)

Pchum Ben, or Ancestors’ Day, unfolds over 15 days as Cambodian families honor their departed loved ones. Visiting pagodas, they offer food to monks, believing spirits return to receive blessings. The festival reaches its peak on the new moon of the 10th lunar month, the holiest day of all.

Travelers can witness locals dressed in white, presenting rice balls and traditional dishes at temples. Monks chant prayers, and incense fills the air. Beyond religious rituals, Pchum Ben offers an opportunity to experience Cambodian spirituality, traditional cuisine and the deep-rooted respect for ancestors in Khmer culture.

📌Date: Late September – Early October

Tonle Sap water festival

Tonle Sap water festival fills November with excitement as Cambodia celebrates the reversal of the Tonle Sap river’s flow. Thousands gather to honor the water spirits, enjoy vibrant boat races, and take part in the lively festivities.

Beyond the thrilling races, the festival features Khmer traditional music and dance, floating lanterns. People offer prayers for prosperity and good harvests. The event unites communities, blending ancient traditions with modern festivities, making it one of Cambodia’s most anticipated and joyful celebrations.

📌Date: Lunar November 15

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Bom Chaul Chnam water splashing festival

Bom Chaul Chnam is a water-splashing festival during the Cambodian New Year. During this festival, people joyfully throw water on each other to wash away bad luck and welcome prosperity. The festival creates a lively, fun-filled atmosphere and brings communities together in celebration.

After completing religious ceremonies at temples, locals use water guns, buckets and hoses to splash water on friends, family and even strangers. They also sprinkle water on homes, animals and farming tools, believing it brings good fortune for the year ahead.

📌Date: April 14 - 16

Meak Bochea ( Buddhist festival in Cambodia)

Meak Bochea, a sacred Buddhist festival in Cambodia, commemorates Buddha’s final sermon and the gathering of 1,250 enlightened monks. Followers visit temples to make offerings, meditate, and reflect on his wisdom.

During the festival, visitors can witness candlelight processions and participate in merit-making activities. Temples are beautifully decorated, creating a serene atmosphere. This is a unique chance for travelers to immerse themselves in Cambodian culture and gain insight into Buddhist philosophy.

📌Date: The full moon day of the third lunar month

King Norodom Sihamoni’s birthday celebration

King Norodom Sihamoni’s birthday brings Cambodia to life with grand ceremonies, vibrant banners, and traditional Khmer music and dance. During the three-day holiday, the King gives to the less fortunate and offers alms to monks. In Phnom Penh, dazzling fireworks and festive gatherings create a one-of-a-kind cultural experience for visitors.

📌Date: May 13 - 15

Royal ploughing ceremony

Marking the start of Cambodia’s rice-growing season, the Royal Ploughing Ceremony brings ancient traditions to life. Held near the Royal Palace, this sacred ritual features oxen making prophetic choices, revealing the fortunes of the upcoming harvest.

This ancient ceremony, led by the King or a high-ranking official, attracts locals and tourists alike. Travelers can witness the elaborate procession, offerings to the gods and the symbolic plowing of the field, gaining insight into Cambodia’s deep-rooted agricultural traditions and spiritual beliefs.

📌Date: Early May

Cambodian festivals' cuisine: Traditional dishes and flavors

A highlight of traditional festivals of Cambodia is the diverse array of traditional foods. More than just delicious treats, these dishes reflect deep-rooted cultural and spiritual traditions passed down through generations.

Num Ansom (Khmer sticky rice cake)

Num Ansom is a beloved Cambodian treat made from glutinous rice, coconut milk and fillings like banana or pork. Wrapped in banana leaves and steamed, it is traditionally enjoyed during Choul Chnam Thmey, Pchum Ben and the King’s birthday celebrations.

💰Price: $1 - $3

Lort Cha (Stir-fried rice noodles)

Lort Cha is a stir-fried noodle dish, often found at street food stalls. Made with short rice noodles, eggs, chives and a savory sauce, it’s commonly enjoyed during Bom Chaul Chnam and Bon Om Touk, offering a flavorful, quick meal.

💰Price: $1 - $2,5

Num Kroch (Coconut rice balls)

Num Kroch is a popular sweet treat enjoyed during Meak Bochea. These small, chewy rice balls are made from glutinous rice flour, coconut milk and sugar, then coated in shredded coconut. They are often served as temple offerings and family desserts.

💰Price: $1 - $2

Bai Cha (Fried rice)

Bai Cha is a fried rice dish, often enjoyed during festivals like the Royal ploughing ceremony. Made with jasmine rice, eggs, soy sauce, green onions, and sometimes Chinese sausage or shrimp, it offers a savory, slightly sweet flavor. The dish symbolizes prosperity and is commonly shared among families and guests, reflecting Cambodia’s communal dining culture.

💰Price: $1,5 - $4

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Where to stay during festivals of Cambodia: Top hotels and resorts

Choosing the right accommodation during a Cambodia trip ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay. We recommend 3 places where you can unwind and fully experience the festive spirit during traditional festivals of Cambodia.

Raffles Hotel Le Royal

Located in the heart of Phnom Penh, Raffles Hotel Le Royal combines colonial charm with modern luxury. Just minutes from key festival sites like Wat Phnom and the Royal Palace, this five-star hotel offers spacious suites, lush gardens, and a renowned cocktail bar, ensuring a refined stay.

📌 Address: 92 Rukhak Vithei Daun Penh, Phnom Penh

💰 Price: $300 - $600

Jaya House River Park

Tucked along the Siem Reap River, Jaya House River Park provides a serene yet convenient stay for festival-goers. With its lush gardens, infinity pools, and personalized service, this boutique hotel offers a quiet oasis just a short drive from Angkor Wat and the city’s lively celebrations.

📌 Address: River Road, Treang Village, Slar Kram Commune, Siem Reap, Cambodiah

💰 Price: $250 - $400

RiverTree villa & resort

For a more laid-back festival experience, RiverTree Villa & Resort in Kampot offers a blend of nature and modern comfort. Set by the river, it’s a great choice for travelers looking to enjoy Cambodia’s traditional festivals while relaxing in a tranquil environment.

📌Address: Makprang village, Kampong Kraeng commune, Kampot, Cambodia

💰Price: $80 - $121

Traveling to festivals of Cambodia: Best transport options

To enjoy these Cambodian festivals, here’s a guide on reaching each one using different transportation options.

Cambodia festival travel guide: What you need to know?

Maximize your Cambodia festival experience with our Cambodia travel guide. These insights will help you navigate crowds, respect traditions and enjoy a stress-free, memorable journey.

Book in advance to avoid sold-out hotels

Book your accommodations in advance to secure the best options and avoid last-minute stress during Cambodia’s festival season. Hotels fill up quickly, especially in popular cities, so early reservations ensure convenience, better prices and a comfortable stay near festival locations.

To make the process easier, consider consulting a local travel company who understands Cambodia’s customs and can tailor your itinerary for a worry-free experience. A trusted agency like Hanoi Voyages can help arrange the best stays while handling any unexpected travel issues.

Keep your belongings safe

Festivals are crowded, making theft a risk, so always stay alert. Use zippered or anti-theft bags and keep valuables secure. Avoid carrying too much cash, and if traveling in a group, distribute money and important items among members for safety.

Plan for longer travel times

Traffic congestion is frequent during festivals of Cambodia, particularly in major cities. To avoid delays, start your journey early, secure transportation in advance, and stay updated on road conditions. Consider alternative routes or travel options for a smoother experience.

Prepare for festivals with necessary medicines

Traditional festivals of Cambodia involve large crowds, street food and long hours outdoors, which may lead to digestion issues, allergies or exhaustion. Bring essential medicines, rehydration salts and first-aid supplies to stay healthy and enjoy the celebrations without interruption.

Experience the beauty of traditional festivals of Cambodia, where ancient rituals and lively celebrations bring communities together. Immerse yourself in the culture, witness unforgettable moments and create lasting memories. Contact Hanoi Voyages to plan your perfect festival adventure today!