Angkor still captivates: Visitor numbers rise despite border tensions

While border tensions between Cambodia and Thailand remain a sensitive issue in regional news, the Angkor site continues to attract growing numbers of visitors from home and abroad.

Selon les dernières statistiques, la fréquentation connaît une progression constante depuis le début de l’année. Photo AKP

According to the latest statistics, visitor numbers have been steadily increasing since the beginning of the year.

According to the Apsara National Authority (ANA), between January and July 2025, more than 1.85 million tourists – including approximately 470,000 domestic visitors and 1.38 million foreign visitors – passed through the gates of Angkor Park.

 This represents an increase of nearly 18% compared to the same period in 2024. In July alone, more than 260,000 admissions were recorded, confirming the strength of this tourism rebound.

Speaking on 19 August, ANA spokesperson and deputy director general Long Kosal emphasised the reassuring nature of this trend, pointing out that the archaeological complex in Siem Reap is more than 300 kilometres from the affected border areas.

‘Visitors are being kept informed of the situation. Nevertheless, they continue to place their trust in the protection and security measures taken by Cambodia. Angkor remains a peaceful destination, where heritage and hospitality go hand in hand,’ he explained.

Mr Kosal also reiterated the Royal Government of Cambodia's full commitment to ensuring the safety of all travellers, while working towards the effective implementation of the ceasefire agreement aimed at restoring stability along the border.

The Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992, remains the country's major tourist attraction. The thousand-year-old temples, including Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Prohm, continue to attract travellers in search of history and emotion, making Siem Reap the international showcase for a confident Cambodia that is resolutely focused on the future, even in times of regional tension.