Cambodia’s Air Travel Makes a Strong Comeback in 2025

Cambodia’s aviation sector staged an impressive recovery in 2025, with nearly seven million passengers passing through the country’s airports, signaling renewed confidence in regional and international travel. According to the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation, total passenger traffic reached 6,988,259, marking a 12 percent increase compared to the previous year. Flight activity also climbed steadily, with 64,821 two way flights recorded, up 11 percent year on year. This rebound reflects not only the return of travelers but also the broader reopening of global mobility, positioning air travel once again as a vital engine for Cambodia’s economic and tourism recovery.

Growing Flights and Cargo Reflect Expanding Connectivity

Beyond passenger growth, Cambodia’s aviation data highlights a broader expansion in air transport activity. Air cargo volumes surged by 21 percent to 93,889 tons, underscoring rising demand for trade, logistics, and time sensitive goods. This increase suggests stronger links between Cambodia and regional supply chains, as well as improved confidence among businesses relying on air freight. Together, higher flight numbers, passenger traffic, and cargo volumes point to a more resilient and diversified aviation sector supporting both tourism and commerce.

Regional Demand and Airline Expansion Drive Passenger Growth

SSCA spokesperson Sinn Chansereyvutha said the surge in air travel was fueled by the gradual recovery of outbound Chinese tourism, alongside steady demand from neighboring and key markets such as Thailand, Vietnam, South Korea, and Japan. The easing of travel restrictions and the expansion of airline capacity played a crucial role in restoring traveler confidence. He noted that the restoration and expansion of airline operations not only boosted passenger numbers but also strengthened Cambodia’s international connectivity, making travel more accessible and efficient for both leisure and business travelers.

Cambodia Strengthens Its International Aviation Network

As airline routes returned and expanded, Cambodia enhanced its global reach, now connecting directly with destinations across eight countries. These include China, South Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, India, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Japan. This growing network reflects Cambodia’s strategic efforts to integrate more deeply into regional and global aviation systems. Improved connectivity supports tourism growth, attracts investment, and facilitates easier movement of people and goods, reinforcing the country’s role as an emerging hub in Southeast Asia.

Techo International Airport Signals a New Era for Aviation

The opening of Techo International Airport in September 2025 marked a significant milestone for Cambodia’s aviation ambitions. Authorities describe the new airport as a catalyst for the next phase of sector development, designed to handle increasing passenger volumes while meeting international standards for safety, efficiency, and sustainability. Combined with expanding air routes, the new facility strengthens Cambodia’s goal of becoming a regional aviation hub, capable of supporting long term economic growth and deeper integration with global travel networks.

Conclusion

Cambodia’s air travel rebound in 2025 reflects more than rising passenger numbers. It signals renewed regional confidence, stronger international connections, and a clear commitment to modernizing aviation infrastructure. With growing demand, expanding routes, and the launch of Techo International Airport, the country is well positioned to sustain momentum and elevate its role in regional and global aviation in the years ahead.

Siem Reap Earns Global Recognition as a Top Cultural Destination for 2026

Siem Reap, home to Cambodia’s world famous Angkor Archaeological Park, has once again captured international attention after being named one of the world’s best cultural destinations for 2026 by global travel platform Tripadvisor. The province ranked 13th among the 25 Best Cultural Destinations worldwide as part of Tripadvisor’s annual Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards, placing it alongside major global cities such as Singapore, London, Kraków, and Paris. This recognition reinforces Siem Reap’s enduring appeal as a cultural and historical hub, driven by its unique blend of ancient architecture, spiritual heritage, and living traditions that continue to attract travelers from around the world.

Angkor Wat Sunrise Described as a Profound Global Experience

In its official citation, Tripadvisor highlighted the emotional impact of visiting Angkor’s ancient monuments, particularly the iconic sunrise at Angkor Wat.

The platform described the moment in vivid terms, stating, “When the morning light washes over the overgrown temples and ruins of Angkor Wat, a simple Siem Reap sunrise becomes a profound event,” adding that “The ancient structures are contained within one of the largest religious complexes in the world.” This powerful imagery underscores why Angkor Wat and the surrounding temples continue to resonate deeply with international visitors, offering not just sightseeing but a meaningful cultural and spiritual experience.

Traveller Reviews Drive Tripadvisor’s Prestigious Rankings

Tripadvisor’s Best Cultural Destinations rankings are based on the quality and quantity of traveler reviews and ratings collected over a 12 month period, making the recognition a direct reflection of visitor satisfaction and global sentiment. Siem Reap’s placement on the list highlights consistent praise from travelers who value authenticity, heritage, and immersive cultural experiences. The ranking also signals strong global confidence in Siem Reap as a destination that delivers lasting memories and high quality travel experiences, even amid growing competition from other cultural cities worldwide.

Tourism Performance Highlights Siem Reap’s Economic Importance

The global recognition comes at a time when Siem Reap continues to function as the driving force of Cambodia’s tourism economy. According to a year end report from Angkor Enterprise, the Angkor Archaeological Park welcomed 955,131 foreign visitors in 2025, generating more than $44.7 million in ticket revenue. While visitor numbers saw a slight decline compared to the previous year, revenue performance remained strong, reflecting the destination’s enduring value and its ability to attract high interest international travelers. This economic contribution further reinforces the province’s strategic importance to national tourism and related industries.

UNESCO Heritage Status Anchors Siem Reap’s Global Appeal

Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1992, the Angkor Archaeological Park remains Cambodia’s most significant tourist attraction and a cornerstone of the country’s cultural identity. The 12th century Angkor Thom royal city and the iconic Angkor Wat continue to be recognized by Tripadvisor as the primary reasons international travelers journey to Siem Reap. Their historical significance, architectural scale, and spiritual legacy ensure that the destination remains relevant and compelling for new generations of global travelers seeking meaningful cultural exploration.

Conclusion

Siem Reap’s ranking among the world’s best cultural destinations for 2026 is more than a travel accolade. It is a reflection of the province’s timeless heritage, global reputation, and central role in Cambodia’s tourism economy. As international travel continues to recover and evolve, Siem Reap stands well positioned to strengthen its status as a must visit cultural destination, offering experiences that are not only visually stunning but deeply profound and memorable.

Cambodia Strengthens Global Air Connectivity Through Strategic Airline Expansion

Cambodia’s aviation sector marked a pivotal milestone in 2025 by substantially expanding its international air links and strengthening its position as an accessible regional gateway. Over the past year, the Kingdom successfully increased the number of international airlines operating routes from ASEAN countries and key markets such as China, Japan, and South Korea, while also opening new air corridors from India and the Middle East. This expansion significantly reduced travel time between Cambodia and major global destinations, reinforcing confidence among international carriers and travelers alike. As a result, Cambodia is no longer seen solely as a niche destination but as an increasingly connected hub that supports both tourism growth and cross border economic activity.

New Routes Reconnect Cambodia With Key Global Markets

One of the most notable developments was the launch of new strategic routes that restored and created important international links. Air Cambodia introduced a direct route between Cambodia and Japan in October, re establishing air connectivity that had been suspended since the Covid pandemic when Japan’s ANA Airlines halted operations. In November, IndiGo Airlines opened a route between Kolkata and Siem Reap, making it the first Indian airline to operate direct flights between Cambodia and India. These new connections not only improved travel convenience but also unlocked fresh opportunities for cultural exchange, tourism inflows, and bilateral trade between Cambodia and some of Asia’s fastest growing markets.

Middle East and European Access Enhanced via Major Carriers

Cambodia’s reach into Europe and beyond was further strengthened through expanded services from leading international airlines. Emirates and Qatar Airways increased their flight frequencies, while Turkish Airlines launched new connections to Cambodia, offering seamless one stop access from Phnom Penh and Siem Reap to Europe and other global destinations via Dubai, Doha, and Istanbul. These enhanced connections have been particularly significant for Siem Reap, home to the Angkor Wat Archeological Park, making it easier for long distance travelers to reach one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic cultural sites while supporting higher value tourism.

Passenger Growth Reflects Rising Confidence in Cambodia Aviation

According to the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation, Cambodia’s aviation sector demonstrated strong momentum, recording a combined 6.33 million passengers between January and November 2025. This represented a year on year increase of 13 percent, reflecting rising demand and renewed traveler confidence. Officials noted that 2025 also laid the foundation for future direct long haul flights to additional destinations, supported by the four F class infrastructure now available at the new Techo International Airport. This modern facility positions Cambodia to handle larger aircraft and expanded intercontinental services in the years ahead.

Government Policy and Infrastructure Drive Sector Resilience

Sinn Chanserey Vutha, Secretary of State and Spokesperson for the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation, attributed the sector’s resilient performance to supportive government policies and sustained investment in infrastructure. Speaking to Khmer Times yesterday, Vutha said, “The entry of international airlines is a reflection of confidence in Cambodia’s safety, infrastructure, and economic potential. This also makes Cambodia one of the regional travel destinations, enabling passengers to travel to the Kingdom with convenience from many major destinations.” He added that the growing number of international airlines has not only boosted tourism but has also strengthened logistics and air cargo capacity, directly supporting Cambodia’s broader economic objectives.

Expanding Network Positions Cambodia as a Regional Aviation Hub

Currently, Cambodia enjoys direct flights from eight ASEAN countries, as well as China, South Korea, China’s Hong Kong, China’s Taiwan, India, Japan, Qatar, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates. In total, 32 airlines, including four domestic carriers, are now operating in the Kingdom. This expanding network underscores Cambodia’s emergence as a competitive regional aviation hub, capable of supporting tourism recovery, trade expansion, and deeper global integration.

Conclusion

Cambodia’s aviation achievements in 2025 represent more than just additional flight routes. They signal growing international confidence in the Kingdom’s infrastructure, policy direction, and economic potential. With modern airports, supportive open sky policies, and an expanding roster of global airlines, Cambodia is well positioned to further strengthen its connectivity, attract higher quality tourism, and play a more prominent role in regional and global air travel in the years ahead.

Phnom Penh Earns Global Recognition as a Top Travel Destination for 2026

Phnom Penh has secured a prestigious place on BBC Travel’s list of the 20 best places to travel in 2026, positioning Cambodia’s capital as a rising star in global tourism. The recognition reflects the city’s growing appeal as a destination that blends deep cultural roots with contemporary energy. Once often overlooked in favor of other regional highlights, Phnom Penh is now being acknowledged for offering meaningful travel experiences that connect visitors with history, creativity, and everyday local life, while reinforcing Cambodia’s presence on the international travel map.

A New International Gateway Transforming Access to the Capital

BBC Travel emphasized that Phnom Penh is entering 2026 with renewed confidence following the launch of Techo International Airport, the largest infrastructure project ever undertaken by Cambodia. The new terminal, distinguished by its striking design and a giant silver Buddha, is set to significantly enhance international connectivity throughout the year. With new flight routes from the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, China, and Japan, the capital is becoming more accessible than at any time in its modern history, reinforcing its role as a key regional gateway for both leisure and business travelers.

Urban Renewal and Sustainable Tourism Take Center Stage

On the ground, Phnom Penh is experiencing a visible transformation that reflects a broader commitment to sustainable urban tourism. BBC Travel noted how a city that once operated with minimal traffic control has evolved into a dynamic urban environment. Developments such as Chaktomuk Walk Street, a pedestrian riverfront that becomes a lively weekend gathering space filled with Khmer street food, local crafts, and live music, illustrate this change. The adoption of electric tuk tuks by luxury hotels such as Rosewood Phnom Penh further highlights how sustainability and hospitality are being integrated into the daily visitor experience.

Architectural Vision Shaping the City’s Identity

The city’s welcoming atmosphere, according to BBC Travel, is deeply rooted in the vision of Cambodia’s late architect Vann Molyvann, who famously said that “no building could rise higher than the Royal Palace”. This principle continues to influence Phnom Penh’s skyline and urban character. In 2026, Molyvann’s legacy is increasingly visible, with his former 1960s home reopened as a design focused cafe and mini museum, while other Modernist structures are being restored by a new generation of Cambodian creatives committed to preserving architectural heritage.

A Youth Driven Cultural and Culinary Revival

BBC Travel also highlighted the growing influence of Gen Z entrepreneurs who are reshaping Phnom Penh’s cultural and creative scene. Sustainable boutiques, craft distilleries, and third culture coffee shops are flourishing, driven by young Cambodians returning home with global perspectives. Visitors can now enjoy award winning spirits made from local botanicals, rediscover traditional Khmer dishes once banned during the war, and explore quiet, leafy streets lined with heritage shophouses that tell stories of resilience and renewal.

Phnom Penh Among Asia’s Most Notable Destinations

Phnom Penh’s inclusion places it alongside other prominent Asian destinations such as Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, Ishikawa in Japan, and Indonesia’s Komodo Islands. The list, compiled with input from journalists, travel experts, and sustainable tourism leaders, focuses on destinations that deliver exceptional experiences while using tourism as a force to support local communities, protect the environment, and preserve cultural identity.

Conclusion

Phnom Penh’s recognition by BBC Travel signals a defining moment for Cambodia’s capital. With improved global access, thoughtful urban development, a strong architectural legacy, and a vibrant youth led cultural revival, the city is redefining itself for a new era of responsible and experience driven tourism. As 2026 unfolds, Phnom Penh stands ready to welcome the world not just as a place to visit, but as a city to understand, appreciate, and remember.

Siem Reap Records Lower Visitor Numbers Over New Year Period

Siem Reap experienced a noticeable slowdown in tourist arrivals during the recent New Year celebrations, marking a softer start to the 2025 to 2026 transition for the province’s tourism sector. According to data released by the Siem Reap Provincial Department of Tourism, total visitor numbers during the year end holiday period declined by more than 14 percent compared with the same period last year. Between December 30 and 31, 2025, approximately 286,751 tourists and local residents visited the province, reflecting a 14.06 percent decrease year on year and signaling more cautious travel behavior during what is typically a peak holiday season.

Domestic Travel Remains Dominant Despite Decline

Domestic tourists and provincial residents continued to make up the vast majority of arrivals, underscoring the ongoing importance of local travel to Siem Reap’s tourism economy. Over the two day New Year period, around 279,210 domestic visitors were recorded, although this figure represented a 13.66 percent decline compared with the previous year. The reduction suggests softer domestic travel activity during the celebrations, potentially influenced by changing spending patterns, economic considerations, or shorter holiday trips among local travelers.

International Arrivals Fall at a Sharper Rate

International tourism also saw a more pronounced contraction during the same period. Siem Reap welcomed 7,541 foreign visitors over the two days, down significantly from 10,260 international arrivals recorded during the corresponding period in 2024. This represents a year on year decrease of 26.5 percent, highlighting ongoing challenges in restoring international travel momentum despite regional recovery efforts and increased global mobility.

Siem Reap’s Enduring Role as a Tourism Anchor

Despite the overall decline, Siem Reap continues to hold a central position in Cambodia’s tourism landscape. The province remains globally recognized for the Angkor World Heritage site, particularly Angkor Wat, and has steadily expanded its cultural, culinary, and leisure offerings to appeal to a broader range of travelers. These assets continue to position Siem Reap as a cornerstone destination with long term tourism potential.

Efforts to Stabilise Tourism and Support Local Businesses

In response to fluctuating visitor numbers, authorities have intensified efforts to promote domestic tourism and diversify tourism products across the province. By encouraging local travel and expanding experiences beyond traditional temple visits, officials aim to stabilise visitor flows and help sustain tourism related businesses during peak holiday periods and beyond. These measures are expected to play a key role in strengthening resilience within Siem Reap’s tourism sector.

Conclusion

While the recent New Year holiday period saw a decline in both domestic and international visitors, Siem Reap’s fundamental strengths as a premier tourism destination remain intact. Continued promotion, product diversification, and strategic support for local businesses will be essential to rebuilding momentum and ensuring sustainable growth as Cambodia’s tourism industry adapts to evolving travel trends.