Cambodia’s Tourism Triumph: $50 Million in Ticket Sales in 2024

In a significant boost to Cambodia’s tourism industry, the nation reported nearly USD 50 million in revenue from ticket sales to its renowned attractions—Angkor, Koh Ker, and various boat excursions—throughout 2024. This remarkable achievement highlights the sector’s robust recovery and growth.

Impressive Earnings from Iconic Sites

According to the Angkor Institute’s annual report released on January 1, 2025, Cambodia amassed a total of USD 48,950,354 from ticket sales between January and December. This substantial sum underscores the resurgence of interest in Cambodia’s historical and cultural treasures following recent challenges in global travel.

Angkor, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stood out as the crown jewel of Cambodia’s tourism offerings. The ancient temple complex attracted over 1 million foreign visitors, with 1,023,688 tourists purchasing tickets. These sales generated a staggering USD 47,826,981, marking a 28.57% increase compared to the previous year. The surge in visitors underscores the enduring allure of Angkor’s rich history and architectural marvels.

A Record-Setting December

December 2024 emerged as a particularly profitable month for Angkor, with ticket sales reaching USD 5,918,148. This represents a 27.21% increase from December 2023, as 125,349 foreign tourists explored the historic site. The growth in visitor numbers during the holiday season highlights Cambodia’s rising appeal as a year-round destination.

Expanding Attractions: Koh Ker and Beyond

Beyond Angkor, other attractions like Koh Ker also saw a significant uptick in visitors. Ticket sales for Koh Ker totaled USD 329,025 for the year, reflecting growing interest in the lesser-known but equally fascinating temple complex. Meanwhile, scenic boat rides contributed an additional USD 794,348 to the country’s tourism revenue, offering tourists a unique way to experience Cambodia’s natural beauty.

Accessible and Flexible Pricing

To accommodate the diverse needs of international tourists, Cambodia offers a range of ticketing options. Visitors can choose from a one-day pass priced at USD 37, a three-day pass for USD 62, or a week-long pass for USD 72. These flexible pricing tiers provide travelers with the opportunity to explore Cambodia’s rich cultural landscape at their own pace.

Enhancing Visitor Experience through Reforms

In a move to further enhance the tourist experience, the Cambodian government has introduced six key reforms aimed at improving ticketing and inspection processes at Angkor. These measures are designed to streamline operations, reduce waiting times, and ensure a seamless visit for all tourists.

Looking Ahead: New Incentives for 2025

As part of its strategy to attract more international visitors and investors, the Royal Government of Cambodia is set to reduce the price of its eVisa service starting January 1, 2025. This initiative is expected to simplify the travel process and encourage more tourists to choose Cambodia as their next destination.

A Bright Future for Cambodian Tourism

With these positive developments, Cambodia is well-positioned to continue its upward trajectory in the global tourism market. The country’s rich cultural heritage, combined with strategic reforms and enhanced visitor services, make it an increasingly attractive destination for travelers worldwide. As Cambodia opens its doors wider, it invites the world to discover its captivating history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture.

This surge in tourism not only enriches the visitor experience but also bolsters the national economy, paving the way for a thriving future.

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Kantha Bopha Hospital Discovers 698 Children with Diabetes: A Closer Look

Kantha Bopha Hospital, a cornerstone of pediatric healthcare in Cambodia, recently reported that 698 children across its branches in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap have been diagnosed and treated for type 1 diabetes. This discovery has raised public concern, especially regarding the alarming number of young children, mostly aged between 4 and 14, with the highest rates among those between 10 and 14 years old. Out of the total, 309 cases were recorded in the hospital’s Siem Reap branch.

While the public may feel alarmed by this number, it is important to understand the context of these findings. According to Dr. Yay Channa, director of Jayavarman VII Hospital (Kantha Bopha Hospital, Siem Reap), this number reflects cases recorded since the hospital’s inception in 1992. He emphasized that these figures do not indicate a sudden spike, explaining that typically one or two new cases are identified each month.

Understanding Type 1 Diabetes in Children

Professor Khun Leang Chhun, the deputy director of Jayavarman VII Hospital, elaborated on the cause of type 1 diabetes, attributing it to the immune system’s destruction of the beta cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. Several factors may trigger this immune response, including viral infections such as rubella or certain genetic factors like Human Leukocyte Antigens (HLA) DR2, DR3, and DR4.

One key point to clarify is that type 1 diabetes in children is not caused by excessive sugar consumption. Once a child is diagnosed, the treatment typically involves insulin therapy, which helps manage the condition. Insulin, a hormone normally produced by the pancreas, becomes a necessary lifelong treatment for children with type 1 diabetes.

Parents and guardians are educated on how to properly care for their children, including how to test blood glucose levels and administer insulin injections. The hospital also provides medical supplies, such as insulin, free of charge, ensuring children can continue treatment at home.

Insulin injections vary depending on the type prescribed. Some children may require two daily injections—one in the morning and one in the evening—while others need four doses throughout the day. Blood sugar levels must be monitored closely to ensure proper management of the disease. If parents administer too much insulin, the child may experience serious health complications, including fainting.

The History and Impact of Kantha Bopha Hospital

Kantha Bopha Hospital has been a critical player in providing free healthcare to Cambodian children since its establishment in 1992. Founded by Dr. Beat Richner, a Swiss pediatrician, the hospital was established to address the dire need for pediatric medical services in Cambodia following the devastation of the Khmer Rouge regime.

Initially built in Phnom Penh, the hospital has since expanded to include multiple branches across Cambodia. Currently, there are five Kantha Bopha hospitals, three in Phnom Penh and two in Siem Reap, all dedicated to providing high-quality healthcare to Cambodian children without charge. The hospital receives significant financial support from donors, including contributions from the Cambodian government, foreign governments, and private individuals, making it possible to offer free medical care to thousands of children each year.

Over the years, Kantha Bopha Hospital has played an indispensable role in saving countless lives, particularly in areas like pediatric surgery, intensive care, and the treatment of infectious diseases. The discovery of nearly 700 cases of type 1 diabetes is just one example of the hospital’s commitment to identifying and addressing the healthcare needs of children across Cambodia.

A Wake-Up Call for Better Diabetes Management

In 2023, the hospital’s Facebook page shared the story of a 12-year-old girl who, after missing her appointments, suffered serious complications due to uncontrolled type 1 diabetes. The lack of regular treatment led to ulcers, kidney damage, and a severe health crisis. Fortunately, the emergency team at Kantha Bopha Hospital was able to revive her and stabilize her condition through intensive care, including multiple blood cleansing treatments.

This case serves as a reminder of the importance of regular monitoring and consistent treatment for children with type 1 diabetes. Without proper care, the disease can quickly spiral into life-threatening complications.

Conclusion

Kantha Bopha Hospital’s discovery of 698 children with type 1 diabetes underscores the importance of early detection, consistent treatment, and parental education in managing this chronic condition. While the numbers may initially seem alarming, they represent the hospital’s long-standing commitment to pediatric care since 1992.

What are your thoughts on the increasing cases of diabetes in children? How do you think Cambodia can better address childhood diabetes? Share your opinions and ideas with us!

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1. What is Pchum Ben Festival?

Pchum Ben, also known as the Festival of the Dead, is one of Cambodia’s most significant religious festivals. Deeply rooted in Cambodian culture and tradition, this festival holds spiritual significance and brings communities together. Celebrated annually, it is a time for honoring ancestors, offering prayers, and performing ceremonies for departed loved ones.

This blog post will delve into the history of the Pchum Ben Festival, its cultural importance, the duration of the celebration, and provide valuable insights into what to expect, do, eat, and where to go during this sacred time in Cambodia.

2. History of Pchum Ben Festival

History or Legend of Pchum Ben Festival

The history of Pchum Ben stretches back to ancient times and is intricately tied to Buddhist beliefs and Cambodian legends. The festival is primarily centered around the concept of ancestral worship, where it is believed that the spirits of the deceased come back to Earth during the festival to seek offerings from their living relatives. In Khmer mythology, the spirits of ancestors, especially those who were sinful or who died without proper religious rites, are believed to suffer in the afterlife, wandering without food or comfort. Pchum Ben is the time when their living descendants can offer food and prayers to ease their suffering and bring them peace.

One popular legend associated with Pchum Ben is the story of Preah Bat Sampeah, a king who forgot to make offerings to his ancestors. The spirits of his ancestors appeared in his dreams, reminding him of his duties and requesting offerings. This story highlights the importance of honoring one’s ancestors and forms the basis of the Pchum Ben rituals, where offerings of food, candles, and prayers are made at temples and pagodas.

Why is Pchum Ben Known as Ancestors’ Day?

Pchum Ben is often referred to as Ancestors’ Day because it is a time specifically dedicated to paying respects to deceased family members. It is believed that during the 15 days of the festival, the gates of the underworld open, allowing spirits to visit the world of the living. Cambodians believe that without proper offerings, these spirits will face hardship in the afterlife, and thus, it is the responsibility of the living to perform rituals and give food to monks, who in turn, pass these offerings to the spirits.

Purpose of Pchum Ben Festival

The core purpose of Pchum Ben is to honor ancestors and bring peace to their souls. However, the festival also serves as a reminder to the living of their familial responsibilities. It emphasizes the importance of compassion, generosity, and the Buddhist principles of karma. By making offerings, Cambodians believe they are generating merit not only for their ancestors but also for themselves. The festival also serves as a time for family reunions, as people travel back to their home provinces to visit pagodas and pay their respects together.

3. Why Pchum Ben Festival Celebration is Important to Cambodian Society?

Pchum Ben holds immense importance in Cambodian society, both as a religious and social event. Spiritually, the festival is one of the most revered times in the Buddhist calendar, second only to the Khmer New Year. It offers an opportunity for individuals to fulfill their religious duties by making offerings to monks and performing rituals for their ancestors. This act of giving helps Cambodians accumulate merit, which is essential in Buddhism for improving their karmic standing.

Socially, Pchum Ben fosters community unity. The festival encourages people to reconnect with their roots, visit family members, and maintain strong social bonds.

During Pchum Ben, pagodas become bustling hubs where people from different walks of life come together to celebrate, pray, and share food. The festival also plays a key role in preserving traditional Cambodian culture, as many of the rituals and practices date back centuries.

4. How Long Does Pchum Ben Last? (Months and Days)

Pchum Ben lasts for 15 days and is observed during the 10th month of the Khmer lunar calendar, known as “Pheaktrobotr.” The first 14 days are called “Kan Ben,” where families take turns visiting pagodas to offer food and prayers. The final day is the official Pchum Ben day, marked by large gatherings at pagodas.

The festival usually falls in September or October, depending on the lunar calendar. Below is a table outlining the specific days:

Day	Name	Date (Lunar Calendar)	Date (Gregorian Calendar)
Day 1	Kan Ben 1	1st day of Pheaktrobotr	Varies between September and October
Day 2	Kan Ben 2	2nd day of Pheaktrobotr	Same as above
Day 3	Kan Ben 3	3rd day of Pheaktrobotr	Same as above
…	…	…	…
Day 15	Pchum Ben	15th day of Pheaktrobotr	Same as above

5. What Food to Taste and Eat During Pchum Ben (Food Name with Price)

Food plays a crucial role during Pchum Ben, as families prepare special dishes to offer to monks and to share with their communities. Traditional Cambodian foods are commonly prepared, and they vary by region. Below are some of the most popular dishes that you should taste during Pchum Ben, along with approximate prices:

Food	Description	Price (USD)
Banh Chao	A Cambodian savory crepe filled with pork and bean sprouts	$1.50
Bai Sach Chrouk	Grilled pork served over rice with pickled vegetables	$2.00
Num Ansom	Sticky rice stuffed with pork and wrapped in banana leaves	$1.00
Samlor Korko	A hearty vegetable and pork stew, often considered the national dish	$3.00
Num Banh Chok	Khmer noodles served with a fish-based curry sauce	$1.50
Kralan	Bamboo sticky rice with coconut and beans	$0.75

You can find these dishes at local food stalls near pagodas or popular markets in cities such as Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

6. What Cambodians Do and Play During Pchum Ben Festival

In addition to visiting pagodas and making offerings, Cambodians engage in various recreational and traditional activities. These activities vary by region, but below are some of the most common ones:

Activity	Description	Price (USD)
Tug of War (Teanh Prot)	A traditional team game where participants pull ropes	Free
Kite Flying	Participants fly kites to symbolize the spirit world	$5 for a kite
Cambodian Music & Dance	Traditional dance performances held near pagodas	Free to attend
Boat Racing	Held in river towns; symbolizes a tribute to ancestors	Free
Angkunh	A game similar to bocce, played with palm seeds	Free

Many of these activities are held in communal spaces near pagodas, especially in rural areas.

7. Where to Visit and How to Get There During Pchum Ben (5 Best Places)

During Pchum Ben, visitors can explore cultural sites and pagodas throughout Cambodia. Below are five notable places to visit during the festival:

1. Wat Phnom (Phnom Penh)

Wat Phnom is a key religious site in Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh. It’s a popular destination during Pchum Ben for its significance in local folklore.

• How to get there: Tuk-tuk or taxi from anywhere in Phnom Penh.
• Cost: Free to enter.

2. Angkor Wat (Siem Reap)

Though renowned as a tourist destination, Angkor Wat also serves as a spiritual hub during Pchum Ben.

• How to get there: Fly to Siem Reap, then take a tuk-tuk to the temple complex.
• Cost: $37 for a day pass.

3. Wat Langka (Phnom Penh)

Located in central Phnom Penh, Wat Langka is one of the oldest pagodas and is especially lively during Pchum Ben.

• How to get there: Accessible via tuk-tuk or motorbike from central Phnom Penh.
• Cost: Free.

4. Oudong Mountain (Kampong Speu)

Oudong was once the royal capital of Cambodia and houses several important stupas.

• How to get there: Take a taxi or bus from Phnom Penh (40 km away).
• Cost: Free.

5. Wat Sampov Meas (Battambang)

This beautiful temple in Battambang is a focal point during the festival.

• How to get there: Travel by bus from Phnom Penh (5-6 hours).
• Cost: Free.

Where to Stay and Why? (7 Best Places to Stay)

Whether you’re attending Pchum Ben in the capital or visiting rural pagodas, accommodation is widely available. Below are seven recommended places to stay:

Hotel	Location	Why Stay Here?	Price (USD per night)
Raffles Hotel Le Royal	Phnom Penh	Luxury hotel near major temples	$200+
Borei Angkor Resort	Siem Reap	Proximity to Angkor Wat and pagodas	$120+
Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel	Phnom Penh	Beautiful river views and close to Wat Phnom	$100+
The Plantation Urban Resort	Phnom Penh	Central location with traditional Khmer architecture	$80+
Viroth’s Hotel	Siem Reap	Close to temples, offering a blend of modern and traditional	$100+
Templation Hotel	Siem Reap	Eco-friendly resort, great for those seeking serenity	$130+
Battambang Resort	Battambang	Ideal for exploring provincial pagodas and temples	$90+

8. What Things to Buy and Where to Buy During Pchum Ben Festival (Top 3 Places)

Pchum Ben is an excellent time to buy traditional Cambodian items, as markets offer a variety of unique goods.

Place	Location	What to Buy?
Central Market	Phnom Penh	Khmer silk, jewelry, religious items
Old Market (Psar Chas)	Siem Reap	Handmade crafts, traditional clothing
Night Market	Phnom Penh & Siem Reap	Locally made souvenirs, silverware, Buddha statues

9. Do’s and Don’ts During Pchum Ben Festival

Here are a few essential etiquette tips for attending Pchum Ben:

Do’s:

• Dress modestly when visiting pagodas.
• Make offerings at the pagoda early in the morning.
• Show respect by removing shoes before entering temples.
• Engage in community activities and be respectful to locals.

Don’ts:

• Don’t speak loudly or act disrespectfully at pagodas.
• Avoid public displays of affection near religious sites.
• Don’t take photos of monks without permission.
• Refrain from eating meat on certain days of the festival, as some Cambodians abstain from animal products during this time.

10. How to Stay Safe During Pchum Ben Festival

Safety is a top priority during the crowded festivities of Pchum Ben. Here are some key tips:

Tips:

• Always carry a small amount of cash, but avoid showing large sums of money in public.
• Stay hydrated, especially if you’re spending time outside or visiting rural areas.
• Be mindful of your belongings, as pickpockets can operate in crowded spaces.
• If traveling to rural pagodas, keep a local map and travel in groups.

Emergency Numbers in Cambodia:

Province	Emergency Contact Number
Phnom Penh	117 (Police)
Siem Reap	118 (Ambulance)
Battambang	119 (Fire)
Kampong Speu	023 723 555 (Local Police)
Sihanoukville	023 880 090 (Tourist Police)

Always have your hotel’s contact number and location on hand, and if you’re traveling with others, establish a meeting point in case of separation.

Pchum Ben is a beautiful, sacred, and vibrant time in Cambodia, offering visitors an authentic experience of Khmer culture, religion, and community. Whether you’re attending ceremonies at pagodas, enjoying traditional foods, or exploring Cambodia’s rich heritage, the festival is a unique time to witness the country’s deep reverence for its ancestors and its enduring traditions.

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