Cambodian New Year 2026: Everything you need to know!

What do you know about the Cambodian New Year?

Asia has numerous New Year traditions. While some countries observe January 1st, others, such as Vietnam, commemorate the Lunar New Year. Cambodia's New Year, known as Choul Chnam Thmey or Sangkranta, is celebrated in April and means 'Entering the New Year' in Khmer.

The official name for Cambodian New Year is បុណ្យចូលឆ្នាំថ្មី ប្រពៃណីជាតិ (translated as 'New Year Festival, the National Tradition').

The Khmer New Year begins in mid-April and follows the Buddhist lunisolar calendar. It was formerly celebrated in November or December until the 13th century, when the Khmer king shifted it to coincide with the harvest. Cambodia utilizes the Buddhist calendar to count years. For example, the Western year 2000 corresponded to the Thai Buddhist year 2543, and the Buddhist year 2569 will occur in 2026.

Aside from Buddhism, the Khmer people believe that each year, a god (Tevoda) descends from heaven to protect life and humanity. At the conclusion of the year, the deity returns to heaven, allowing another to take his position. These days are filled with community festivals, involving exciting events such as sky lantern lighting, lantern burning, and fire spinning. Elders tell fairy tales, myths, and legends to their children and grandkids.

As most Khmer people are farmers, the period from November to March is intensive for harvesting. April, with its dry weather and intense heat, offers respite, granting farmers much-needed leisure after a year of hard work. Hence, April becomes the opportune time for Cambodia's Khmer population to celebrate their New Year.

When does the Cambodian New Year 2026 take place?

The Cambodian New Year of 2026 spans from April 14 to 16, serving as a time for families to unite and uphold their cultural traditions and rituals.

Throughout this period, numerous Cambodians journey back to their hometowns or villages to celebrate with loved ones. Festivities take place in public spaces like Buddhist temples, drawing crowds of thousands annually. Key event locations encompass Wat Phnom in Phnom Penh, Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, and Wat Krom in Preah Sihanouk.

The 3 Days of Khmer New Year 

The three official days of New Year celebrations revolve around religious traditions and cultural norms, which remain significant for many adherents.

The first day Maha Sangkran:

The term "Sangkran" stems from the Sanskrit word "Sankranta," denoting movement or change. "Maha" translates to "big," signifying the culmination of the past year and the commencement of a new cycle.

Customarily, people dress elegantly, offer incense, present flowers and gifts at temples for worship. Ritual washing of hands in the morning, chest in the afternoon, and feet in the evening signifies purification and luck.

While Cambodia's celebration of the Songkran water festival may not match Thailand's exuberance, it remains a cherished custom. Sprinkling water symbolizes well-wishing and cleansing of past misfortunes. Children enthusiastically partake, dousing each other with buckets, water guns, and hoses. Some seek monk-led blessings through water for purification.

The second day Veareak Vanabat:

The second day of the celebrations is considered the day of gratitude, an opportunity to perform acts of charity. Many Cambodians choose to help the poor and less fortunate, while others travel with their families to monasteries to pay homage to their ancestors.

At night, the entire family, from the oldest to the youngest, gathers at the temples to participate in a traditional ceremony of building sand mounds on the ground. These sand mountains have a central peak surrounded by four smaller peaks, which represent stupas dedicated to Buddha and his disciples.

The third day Veareak Laeung Sak:

The final day bids farewell to the old year, embracing new hopes. 'Pithi Srang Preah,' a ritual cleansing of Buddha statues with scented water, symbolizes eradicating evil and seeking blessings. Washing elders' hands and feet expresses gratitude.

It's a time for New Year resolutions, optimism, and family gatherings. Festivities fill towns and villages with music, dance, and fireworks, welcoming the promising dawn of the new year.

Where to celebrate the festival?

• Phnom Penh

The capital of Cambodia, Phnom Penh, is an ideal place to celebrate the Cambodian New Year. The streets come alive with traditional dances, parades, and festivities. Don't miss the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda.

• Siem Reap

If you're looking for impressive displays featuring rituals and traditions, head to Siem Reap! Famous temples like Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon, and Ta Prohm provide a majestic backdrop for the celebrations. Angkor Wat is Cambodia's iconic symbol, while Angkor Thom, with its monumental gates, creates a mystical atmosphere. Bayon, known for its carved faces, and Ta Prohm, entwined with vegetation, add a sense of adventure to your experiene.

>>> For more information, please read:

• Angkor Wat: 11 Astounding Facts to Discover!
• Discovering Siem Reap, the Land of the Angkor Temples
• Angkor Wat Temple: A Timeless Masterpiece of Khmer Civilization

• Sihanoukville

Preah Sihanouk Province is a fantastic destination to celebrate Khmer New Year. Its charm and appeal attract both national and international visitors during this festive period. Sihanoukville comes alive with parties, fireworks, and street events, making it the perfect place to relax and immerse yourself in the vibrant celebrations.

In coastal towns like Kep and Kampot or Battambang, many key tourist spots close down. It's advisable to check beforehand and arrange transportation, especially in the evenings when it can be challenging. Open establishments may experience slower service during the holidays.

• Koh Rong and Koh Rong Saloem

If you love beaches, visit Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem! From April 13 to 16, Koh Rong comes alive with New Year celebrations, including music, dancing, water splashing, and cultural ceremonies. Locals and tourists get together for joyful feasts, games, and beach parties. Special events are held at resorts and bars, making for a lively and memorable ambiance. Early booking is required during this popular holiday season.

>>> Read more: 

• 8 things in Koh Rong Samloem that locals want you to know
• What Makes Koh Rong Cambodia a Must-Visit Island? 

>>> Plan your trip right away!

How does Cambodian celebrate it?

• People of all ages join the festival activities!

Khmer New Year is the best time for Cambodians to reunite with their family and enjoy various events for three or four days. For instance, during the Angkor Sankranta event in April back in 2015, Cambodia made the world record for "Num Ansom," the largest sticky rice cake in Siem Reap. It weighed 8,906 pounds and 10 ounces (~4 tons).

Khmer New Year has a sincere atmosphere, but it is also a fun celebration with families, friends, and the whole country. The last day of the New Year is full of music, fireworks, and street parties across Cambodia. Khmer people everywhere celebrate this special holiday in their own way, making each celebration unique.

Wearing Traditional Cambodian costumes during the Choul Chnam Thmey

• Sampot: A long, unstitched cloth used by adults and wrapped from waist to calf. Commoners wore basic cloths, whilst royalty donned brocade. Cambodians have traditionally gone barefoot, with the exception of nobility.
• Sarong: A comfy garment used by both men and women, made of a piece of fabric tied around the waist. Sarongs are often worn because they are comfortable.
• Krama is a multipurpose garment that can be used as a scarf, bandanna, face cover, or even a children's hammock. It is a popular memento to bring home from Cambodia.

How to say Happy New Year in Cambodian?

The Cambodian New Year, referred to as Chol Chnam Thmey in Khmer (meaning "entering the new year"), holds significant cultural importance in Cambodia. To extend New Year greetings in Cambodian, one can say “Sursedey Chnam Thmey!” (pronounced: Souw-sday/Soursdey - Chnam - Tmay/Thmey). If you want to learn how to say  “Hello” in Cambodian like a local, explore Cambodia Greetings Guide for Travellers.

>>> Read more about Cambodian cuisine

A highlight of the celebration is sharing traditional dishes like amok (fish curry steamed in banana leaves), kralan (sticky rice cake with beans, coconut, and roasted in bamboo), and nom banh chok (noodle soup). These dishes are rich in cultural significance and enjoyed with family and friends during the festivities.

Tips for travelers to make the most of this holiday

Cambodia’s Weather & Travel Tips

April is Cambodia's hottest month, with temperatures reaching 35°C (95°F). Pack lightweight clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and lots of water. To avoid the midday heat, go to Angkor Wat early and spend the afternoons in air-conditioned areas like the Angkor National Museum.

Holiday Tips:

• Temple visits: During Cambodian New Year, several temples hold unique events, such as water blessings.
• Try Traditional Foods: Don't miss out on bamboo soup and rice cakes. (Read more: Top Ten Cambodian Street Foods.)
• Dining: Because many eateries close for the holiday, locals frequently eat at home. Hotels still serve food, however the options may be limited.

Celebrations & Culture:

• People frequently play with water pistols and throw baby powder, which might irritate their eyes and lungs.
• Traditional Dance: Attend the Apsara and Kenorei dances, which are both important performances throughout the festival.
• Folk Games: Cambodians celebrate the New Year by playing traditional games.

Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly, stay aware of your surroundings, and be respectful of local traditions.

Our last words,

To truly immerse yourself in Cambodian culture, attend the Cambodian New Year celebrations in April 2026. Whether in the vibrant streets of Phnom Penh, the famous temples of Siem Reap, or the lovely towns in the south, you'll enjoy a great experience steeped in Khmer culture.

Source: The Official Site for Tourism of Cambodia, Royal Thai Embassy, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

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