Over 1.5 Million Tourists Flock to Kampong Cham for Khmer New Year

More than 1.5 million national and international tourists flocked to Kampong Cham province on Wednesday for the second day of Khmer New Year celebrations.

According to the provincial Tourism Department, the flagship attraction of the "Kampong Cham Sankranta" festival was an impressive exhibition of sun-dried clams (leas hal) stretching 1,200 meters and weighing about five tons. The opening ceremony took place on the road in front of Kampong Cham City Hall, in the presence of Cambodian Minister of Tourism His Excellency HUOT Hak and the provincial governor His Excellency UN Chanda. To highlight this local culinary specialty, the provincial administration offered this impressive quantity of clams to visitors for free.

Record Crowds in Detail

Kampong Cham city center alone welcomed nearly 108,000 visitors, including 90 foreigners, who came specifically to admire this extraordinary display. In addition:

• Events organized at the district level attracted 107,317 more people.

• Local tourist sites recorded 63,212 visitors.

This massive turnout follows a already remarkable first day, which drew more than one million visitors on Tuesday. According to a report from the provincial Tourism Department, exactly 958,645 national tourists and 155 international visitors had come to the province on April 14.

Kampong Cham, a Prized Cultural Destination

The success of the "Leas Hal" event highlights the growing role of cultural tourism in Cambodia. By showcasing local cuisine and traditions, Kampong Cham boosts its appeal and positions itself as a top destination for travelers seeking authenticity.

These cultural festivals play a key role in regional economic development by encouraging spending at local shops, food vendors, and artisan boutiques.

A Khmer New Year 2026 Steeped in Tradition

The Khmer New Year (Chaul Chnam Thmey), held from April 14 to 16, 2026, is Cambodia's most important traditional festival. The year 2026 is under the sign of the Horse, and the New Year goddess is Reakyaksa Devi, third daughter of Kabel Moha Prum. Unlike previous years, the 2026 celebrations nationwide emphasized traditional dances, religious ceremonies, and humanitarian activities, excluding water and powder games.

For the occasion, seven provinces, including Kampong Cham, Siem Reap, Battambang, and Kampong Thom, organized celebrations highlighting Khmer heritage through folk games, traditional arts, and local gastronomy.