Cambodia Travel Blog

Cambodian New Year, also known as Chol Chnam Thmey in Khmer, is the most important holiday in the Cambodian calendar. This annual event takes place in April and the festivities last for three days, from April 14 to 16. It is a celebration that is both convivial and spiritual and has great cultural importance for the country. In this article, you will learn about the origin of this holiday, as well as the traditions and celebrations associated with the Cambodian New Year 2026.

Plan your trip to Cambodia in August with our comprehensive guide. Learn about the weather, top attractions like Angkor Wat and Tonlé Sap, and get practical travel tips for a memorable visit.

When you think of Cambodia, the temples of Angkor often come to mind. However, a few hours away, a completely different reality awaits those who choose to leave the usual roads. On the banks of the Tonle Sap, the lakeside village of Kampong Khleang reveals a way of life closely linked to water and the seasons. Here, the houses rest on high stilts or float along the lake. The children learn to handle the paddle from an early age, and the days go by simply, between fishing, mutual aid and neighborhood life. Every scene of everyday life is sincere, raw, deeply authentic, a detour that is worth it, far beyond the temples of Siem Reap.

Have you ever wondered how a civilization can tell its story through carved stones, graceful dances, or hand-woven scarves? Khmer art is all of these things at once: a mixture of stories, beliefs and know-how that continues to live on in Cambodia, but also in formerly Khmer lands, such as Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Myanmar or Malaysia. This heritage is the soul of a people who built a powerful empire between the ninth and fifteenth centuries.

Lost among the lush vegetation of the Angkor Archaeological Park, Preah Khan fascinates with its large expanse, mysterious atmosphere, and little-known history. Less visited than the site's most famous temples, it offers a tranquil experience, away from the crowds. Behind its walls covered with roots, the past still breathes through the stones. One enters out of curiosity and leaves with the feeling of having crossed a forgotten world. Its story begins in the late 12th century, at the height of the Khmer Empire's power, which helps explain what makes this temple so unique.

Cambodia, often associated with its majestic temples and rich history, also has a number of idyllic islands bordered by the Gulf of Thailand, offering pristine beaches and breathtaking scenery. While some islands in the region, such as its Thai neighbors, are famous for their natural beauty, it's important to note that not all of them are worth a visit or offer easy access. However, among this selection, a few islands stand out for their rugged beauty, accessibility, and the unique experiences they offer. Here is a selection of the best islands in Cambodia to discover during your stay.