The completion of Phase 1 of the Phnom Khnong Phsar Green Recreation Project marks a significant milestone for eco tourism development in Kampong Speu province. Officially announced in June 2026, the project is designed to strengthen community based tourism, create new economic opportunities, and improve the livelihoods of local families while protecting the area’s rich natural environment. Located within Phnom Kravanh National Park, Phnom Khnong Phsar is emerging as one of Cambodia’s most promising sustainable tourism destinations.

The initiative reflects the government’s broader commitment to balancing economic development with environmental conservation. By investing in tourism infrastructure, community services, and local markets, authorities aim to ensure that residents directly benefit from the growing number of visitors attracted to the region’s unique landscapes and cultural heritage.

Government Delivers on Eco Tourism Vision

Prime Minister Hun Manet recently visited Phnom Khnong Phsar alongside senior government officials, including Environment Minister Eang Sophalleth, Tourism Minister Huot Hak, and Kampong Speu Provincial Governor Cheam Chan Sophorn. During the visit, officials reviewed the completed first phase of the Green Recreation Project and assessed its impact on local communities.

According to the Prime Minister, the project was delivered as promised and was specifically designed to empower local residents. Rather than being managed solely by government institutions, the development places ownership and responsibility in the hands of the community, ensuring that economic benefits remain within the area.

“This project aims to strengthen the provision of community services, enabling local people to directly manage the achievements, share responsibilities, and enjoy greater economic benefits within their community,” he said.

A New Market for Local Products

One of the project’s key features is the newly established community market, which gives local residents a dedicated space to promote and sell products directly to visitors. This initiative is expected to stimulate local production while creating sustainable income opportunities for families living in the area.

Government officials estimate that approximately 118 community families will benefit from the new tourism driven economy. The market will allow producers, artisans, farmers, and small business owners to showcase their goods, creating a stronger connection between tourism and rural development.

Infrastructure Designed for Visitors and Communities

Environment Minister Sophalleth explained that the project was developed following Prime Minister Hun Manet’s visit to the area in March 2025. At that time, authorities were instructed to improve the destination while preserving its natural beauty, cultural identity, and environmental value.

Among the completed facilities are an information centre and the Damnak Domrei Community Market. Both structures were built using traditional Khmer architectural designs, helping maintain the cultural character of the destination while enhancing visitor experiences.

The project also includes two access routes to Phnom Khnong Phsar. The first is a scenic pedestrian trail divided into seven levels, complete with rest stops and designated photo locations where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

A second route is being upgraded into a concrete road by the Ministry of Rural Development. Once completed, visitors will have easier vehicle access while preserving safe walking paths for nature enthusiasts and hikers.

“What we need to do is train the community to manage this site effectively. It was not built for the Ministry of Environment, local authorities, or any individual, but for the community itself,” Sophalleth emphasised.

Protecting Nature While Growing the Economy

Phnom Khnong Phsar sits within the protected area of Phnom Kravanh National Park, making environmental protection a central part of the development strategy. Provincial Environment Director Chanthet Thanoraek said authorities will continue working closely with local communities to safeguard the area’s forests, wildlife, and natural resources.

The vision is to establish Phnom Khnong Phsar as a sustainable, green, and pollution free tourism destination. By promoting responsible tourism, officials hope to create long term economic opportunities while reducing environmental risks and discouraging illegal activities within protected areas.

Local authorities believe that stronger tourism activity will support law enforcement efforts, encourage community participation, and increase self reliance among residents through new sources of income.

Local Families Already Seeing Benefits

For many residents, the transformation of Phnom Khnong Phsar has exceeded expectations. Community members who once relied on limited economic opportunities are now seeing tourism create new pathways for growth and income generation.

Sao Soen, a member of the Phnom Khnong Phsar Community Committee, said local residents never imagined the area would develop so rapidly. She explained that every family now has an opportunity to participate in the tourism economy.

Even elderly residents who may not be able to work directly with visitors can benefit by raising livestock, producing local goods, and selling products to tourists. This broader participation helps improve household incomes while strengthening overall community well being.

A Unique Destination at the Heart of Nature

Phnom Khnong Phsar is one of the most attractive destinations within the Tang Bampong Eco Tourism Community in Aoral district, Kampong Speu province. The site is particularly notable for its stunning natural surroundings and strategic location where Kampong Speu, Koh Kong, and Pursat provinces meet.

Surrounded by mountains, forests, and protected landscapes, the destination offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience Cambodia’s natural beauty while supporting local communities. As infrastructure improves and tourism continues to grow, Phnom Khnong Phsar is positioned to become a leading example of sustainable eco tourism in the Kingdom.

Conclusion

The completion of Phase 1 of the Phnom Khnong Phsar Green Recreation Project demonstrates how eco tourism can serve as a powerful tool for community development. By combining environmental protection, cultural preservation, and economic opportunity, the project is creating lasting benefits for local families while enhancing Kampong Speu’s appeal as a tourism destination. As future phases move forward, Phnom Khnong Phsar could become a model for sustainable tourism development across Cambodia.

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Siem Reap is widely known as the home of Cambodia’s ancient temples and breathtaking natural attractions. However, the province is now gaining attention for something entirely different. A growing grape cultivation industry is emerging as a new agritourism attraction, offering visitors a unique experience beyond traditional sightseeing. As of June 2026, local farmers are successfully growing premium grape varieties in the province, creating new economic opportunities while attracting increasing numbers of domestic tourists.

This transformation reflects a broader effort to diversify Siem Reap’s economy and tourism offerings. Through agricultural innovation, expert training, and the introduction of high value crops, local farmers are proving that the province can become more than just a cultural destination. Vineyards are now joining the list of attractions that showcase Cambodia’s evolving agricultural potential.

From Family Gardens to Commercial Vineyards

For many years, commercial grape farming in Cambodia was mainly associated with Battambang and a few other provinces. In recent years, however, Siem Reap has begun carving out its own place in the sector by embracing modern farming techniques and experimenting with new crops.

Local farmers have gradually shifted from small household gardening activities to more productive agricultural ventures. Alongside the expansion of durian plantations, grape cultivation has emerged as one of the most promising developments. This shift demonstrates how agricultural diversification can create additional sources of income while strengthening rural economies.

One of the leading examples of this success is the vineyard operated by local farmer Sam Vanna in Run Ta Ek Techo Sen City. Her vineyard has attracted strong consumer interest thanks to the quality of its grapes and the appeal of purchasing locally grown produce.

A Small Pilot Project with Big Results

Vanna’s journey into grape farming began with a modest pilot project. After receiving specialized training from agricultural experts, she planted 60 grapevines on a small 10 by 30 metre plot near her home. Using organic fertilizers and following professional cultivation guidance, the vineyard completed a 10 month growing cycle with highly encouraging results.

The successful harvest demonstrated that grapes can thrive in Siem Reap’s environment when proper farming methods are applied. What started as a small experiment has quickly evolved into a business with significant growth potential, inspiring other farmers to explore similar opportunities.

“Our goal was to diversify Siem Reap’s tourism and economic profile,” Vanna said. “Historically, the province has been synonymous with ancient temples and natural reserves, lacking the diverse fruit cultivation seen elsewhere. Today, we have successfully established multiple durian orchards and are now expanding into viticulture.”

Premium Grapes Attract Visitors and Buyers

The vineyard currently cultivates five grape varieties imported from Israel, Japan, and the United States. These international varieties have helped create a distinctive product that stands out in the local market.

After an initial harvest in February, the next crop is expected to reach peak ripeness around June 15, 2026. The grapes sell for approximately 45,000 Riel, or around US$11 per kilogram, reflecting their premium quality and limited supply.

Despite seasonal production constraints, public interest continues to grow. The vineyard has already become a popular destination for agritourism, attracting as many as 100 local visitors each weekend. Many visitors come not only to purchase fresh grapes but also to learn about the cultivation process and enjoy a different side of Siem Reap’s countryside.

Vision for Expansion and Local Supply Growth

Encouraged by the vineyard’s success, Vanna plans to expand operations by acquiring additional land and increasing production capacity. Her long term vision is to establish one of the province’s leading vineyards while encouraging other landowners to join the industry.

“Looking ahead, I plan to acquire more land to scale this into a major provincial vineyard,” Vanna added. “I encourage local landowners with larger plots to explore grape cultivation. This will not only satisfy local demand but also establish a supply chain for domestic export to Phnom Penh and other provinces.”

If more farmers embrace grape cultivation, Siem Reap could develop a reliable domestic supply chain that serves both local consumers and major urban markets across Cambodia.

More Than a Fruit: Health and Industry Potential

Beyond tourism and economic benefits, grapes offer important nutritional value. Health specialists highlight that grapes contain natural sugars, organic acids, vitamin C, iron, and calcium, all of which contribute to overall wellbeing and support cardiovascular and cognitive health.

The crop also has applications beyond fresh consumption. In Cambodia, grapevine roots and stalks are used in traditional medicine practices, while growing interest in wine production creates additional opportunities for value added agricultural processing. These diverse uses strengthen the case for expanding grape cultivation across the country.

For more information, readers can refer to the original report published by the Cambodian news agency AKP.

Conclusion

The rise of grape farming in Siem Reap represents an exciting new chapter in Cambodia’s agricultural and tourism development. What began as a small experimental vineyard has evolved into a thriving attraction that brings together farming, tourism, and local entrepreneurship. As more farmers explore high value crops and agritourism opportunities, Siem Reap may soon become known not only for its temples but also for its flourishing vineyards and innovative agricultural success stories.

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A New Vision for Cambodia’s Sacred Mountain

Cambodia is preparing an ambitious plan to transform Phnom Kulen National Park in Siem Reap province into a world class cultural, religious, and eco tourism destination. The initiative, announced by the Ministry of Tourism in late May 2026, aims to diversify tourism experiences, attract higher value visitors, and strengthen the park’s appeal both regionally and globally. Located about 50 kilometers from Siem Reap city, Phnom Kulen holds deep historical and spiritual significance as the birthplace of the ancient Khmer Empire and is home to waterfalls, sacred religious sites, archaeological treasures, and rich natural landscapes.

The strategy comes as Cambodia seeks to expand tourism offerings beyond traditional destinations while ensuring that economic growth goes hand in hand with environmental protection and cultural preservation. Officials believe that by improving tourism products, infrastructure, visitor experiences, and safety standards, Phnom Kulen can become a premium destination that benefits local communities while safeguarding its unique heritage for future generations.

Government Maps Out Long Term Tourism Strategy

The Ministry of Tourism recently outlined its priorities during a meeting chaired by Tourism Minister Huot Hak on May 27. Alongside discussions on institutional reforms and future budget planning, one of the major agenda items focused on tourism development measures for Phnom Kulen from 2026 to 2028 and the preparation of Cambodia’s next tourism development framework.

“Effective tourism development requires unity, strong cooperation and proactiveness, as well as highly responsible implementation from all relevant stakeholders,” the minister said.

According to ministry spokesperson Hun Dany, officials are developing a detailed roadmap designed to elevate Phnom Kulen into a premium tourism destination. The plan focuses on expanding tourism diversity by combining cultural experiences, religious tourism, eco tourism, historical exploration, and traditional heritage into one integrated destination.

“These key measures possess a clear vision and specific goals to transform Phnom Kulen National Park into a high-end cultural, religious and eco-tourism destination,” she said.

The ministry also intends to strengthen tourism services, improve marketing efforts, expand supporting infrastructure, and enhance visitor safety while maintaining accessibility for both local and international travelers.

Creating New Opportunities for Local Communities

Tourism officials believe the development strategy will generate meaningful economic benefits for residents living around Phnom Kulen. Increased visitor numbers could create jobs, encourage small business growth, and boost household incomes throughout surrounding communities.

“Every development of new tourism destinations, as well as the creation of new tourism products, has a single objective: to expand the scope of arrivals of both national and international tourists,” Dany said.

The government also emphasizes that tourism growth should support conservation efforts rather than undermine them. By protecting natural resources and preserving cultural, religious, and historical assets, officials hope to build a sustainable tourism model that creates long term economic value without damaging the destination’s identity.

“To put it another way, it is tourism diversification at Phnom Kulen to make it diverse encompassing culture, nature, traditions, beliefs, religion and history, making it a multi-purpose tourism destination,” Dany added.

Tourism Industry Calls for Better Infrastructure

While industry leaders welcome the government’s vision, they warn that significant improvements are needed before Phnom Kulen can fully reach its potential.

Chhay Sivlin, President of the Cambodia Association of Travel Agents, said the destination offers an impressive combination of cultural heritage, religious significance, natural beauty, and adventure tourism opportunities.

“Within it, we have historical and religious heritage, waterfalls, the Thousand Lingas, Preah Ang Thom and numerous archaeological sites,” she said.

Despite these strengths, many attractions remain underdeveloped or difficult to access. Activities such as trekking, cycling, camping, and forest exploration have yet to be fully promoted, leaving considerable room for growth.

“We have not yet fully utilised all of those benefits to their maximum potential,” Sivlin said.

One of the most pressing concerns is road infrastructure. Poor road conditions and muddy access routes during the rainy season can discourage visitors and limit tourism growth.

Expanding Visitor Experiences Beyond Day Trips

Another challenge is the limited range of tourism services currently available at Phnom Kulen. Sivlin pointed to a lack of organized facilities, quality accommodations, and standardized community tourism services.

“We do not yet have eco-lodges, clean homestays or enough hygienic services,” she said.

At present, most visitors leave the area before evening, resulting in limited economic activity after dark. Tourism experts believe introducing sunset viewpoints, stargazing experiences, community performances, and cultural activities could encourage overnight stays and increase local spending.

“Currently Phnom Kulen becomes completely quiet in the evening,” she said.

Improving access to lesser known archaeological sites could also help distribute visitors more evenly across the park and create additional tourism experiences beyond the waterfall and Preah Ang Thom areas.

“Currently visitors can only go as far as the waterfalls and Preah Ang Thom,” she said.

Protecting Nature While Growing Tourism

Environmental sustainability remains a key concern as tourism development plans move forward. Industry leaders argue that protecting Phnom Kulen’s natural resources must remain a top priority alongside tourism expansion.

Sivlin recommends introducing visitor limits in sensitive areas to reduce overcrowding, establishing Zero Plastic Zones near waterways, and requiring businesses operating close to rivers and streams to implement wastewater treatment systems.

She also suggests building protective walkways around archaeological sites to minimize damage caused by foot traffic while preserving important cultural assets.

“Development and conservation must go together,” she said.

Special facilities for religious activities could also enhance the visitor experience, particularly for international pilgrims and spiritual travelers who visit the sacred mountain for worship and cultural exploration.

Phnom Kulen’s Global Potential

Declared a national park in 1993, Phnom Kulen remains one of Cambodia’s most important cultural and natural landmarks. The wider archaeological landscape, known as Mahendraparvata, has also been nominated for future World Heritage consideration, highlighting its international significance.

With careful planning, improved infrastructure, stronger environmental protections, and meaningful community involvement, Phnom Kulen has the potential to become one of Southeast Asia’s leading examples of sustainable cultural and eco tourism. The government’s new strategy represents a major step toward unlocking that potential while preserving the history, spirituality, and natural beauty that make the destination unique.

Source: Kiripost

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Cambodia has reached a significant milestone in its aviation journey as Techo International Airport was named among the world’s best new airport terminals in the prestigious Skytrax World Airport Awards 2026. The recognition places Cambodia alongside some of the largest and most advanced aviation projects in Japan, China, the United States, and India. Announced in 2026, the award highlights the country’s efforts to modernize its transport infrastructure, strengthen international connectivity, and support long term tourism and economic growth. At the same time, Cambodia is also expanding partnerships to boost tourism and air travel, reinforcing its ambition to become a regional transportation and logistics hub.

The recognition comes at a time when Cambodia is investing heavily in aviation development and international tourism promotion. Through world class airport infrastructure and stronger airline partnerships, the Kingdom is positioning itself to attract more visitors, investors, and business opportunities from around the globe.

Techo International Airport Joins the World’s Best

Techo International Airport earned its place on the Skytrax World Airport Awards 2026 list for the world’s best new airport terminals. The category evaluates airport facilities that have opened within the previous 18 months and measures performance through extensive passenger surveys covering airport facilities, staff services, operational efficiency, and overall customer experience.

According to assessments published by Skytrax and highlighted by Condé Nast Traveller, the rankings recognize excellence across every aspect of airport operations. Being selected among only five airports worldwide demonstrates that Cambodia’s newest international gateway is already meeting global standards in passenger service and infrastructure quality.

A Modern Gateway for Cambodia

Located south of Phnom Penh, Techo International Airport officially began operations on September 9, 2025, replacing the capital’s aging airport as Cambodia’s main international gateway. The facility is classified as a 4F category airport, the highest international classification, allowing it to accommodate some of the world’s largest passenger aircraft, including the Airbus A380 800 and Boeing 747 800.

The first phase of development includes a four kilometre runway and modern passenger facilities capable of handling more than 15 million travelers annually. The airport was designed to support Cambodia’s growing tourism industry, increasing trade opportunities, and expanding international business connections.

Long Term Expansion Plans

Techo International Airport has been designed with future growth in mind. Under the second phase of development, a new runway will be added to increase annual passenger capacity to 30 million by 2030. The final phase, expected to be completed by 2050, will introduce a third runway and expanded facilities capable of serving up to 45 million passengers annually.

These ambitious plans reflect the government’s broader vision of transforming Cambodia into a leading transport and logistics hub in Southeast Asia. The project is expected to play a major role in supporting economic development, attracting foreign investment, and strengthening international trade networks.

Why the Recognition Matters?

Industry experts believe the airport represents one of Cambodia’s most important infrastructure investments in recent years. Improved air connectivity will make it easier for tourists, business travelers, and investors to access the Kingdom while enhancing Cambodia’s competitiveness within ASEAN.

While speaking to Khmer Times, Thourn Sinan, Chairman of the Pacific Asia Travel Association Cambodia Chapter, described the inclusion of the Kingdom in the list as “recognition of the country’s growing aviation and hospitality standards.”

“It will boost traveller confidence, especially for first-time visitors to Cambodia who want a smooth, reliable arrival experience,” he noted.

The recognition also sends a strong signal to the international community that Cambodia is prepared to meet the growing demand for global air travel in the decades ahead.

Global Competition and Recognition

Leading the Skytrax ranking this year was Japan’s Aso Kumamoto Airport, which gained international attention for its striking terminal designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma. Other airports recognized in the category included Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport Terminal 3 in China, San Diego International Airport Terminal 1 in the United States, and Navi Mumbai International Airport in India.

By appearing alongside these globally respected facilities, Cambodia has strengthened its position on the international aviation map and demonstrated its commitment to delivering world class infrastructure.

New Partnership to Strengthen Tourism

As Cambodia celebrates the airport’s global recognition, the country is also taking additional steps to expand tourism and international connectivity. The Cambodia Tourism Board and AirAsia Cambodia recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at attracting more international visitors and supporting tourism development.

The agreement was signed by AirAsia Cambodia Chief Executive Officer Nam Vissoth and representatives from the Cambodia Tourism Board, with the participation of Minister of Tourism Huot Hak and other senior officials.

Speaking at the ceremony, Hak described the agreement as an important step toward strengthening cooperation between the tourism and aviation sectors.

“This agreement combines destination marketing, improved connectivity and digital promotion to showcase Cambodia as a safe, stable and attractive destination with rich cultural heritage, outstanding historical assets, natural beauty, warm hospitality and diverse cuisine,” the minister said.

Aviation Continues to Drive Growth

According to the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation, Cambodia’s aviation sector handled 2.4 million passengers during the first four months of the year. While passenger traffic experienced a slight decline, flight movements increased by two percent and cargo volumes surged by 36 percent compared to the same period last year.

SSCA Secretary of State and spokesman Sinn Chanserey Vutha emphasized that aviation remains a critical driver of tourism, trade, and regional connections. The sector currently benefits from services provided by 33 airlines, including major international carriers such as Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Turkish Airlines.

These airlines provide valuable links between Cambodia and major destinations across Europe, North America, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, helping position the Kingdom as an increasingly connected global destination.

Focus on Australia and India

The Tourism Ministry highlighted that Australia and India remain priority markets under the partnership between the Cambodia Tourism Board and AirAsia Cambodia. Through improved air connectivity, destination marketing, and digital promotion campaigns, the collaboration aims to attract more travelers from these rapidly growing outbound tourism markets.

As Cambodia continues investing in aviation infrastructure and international partnerships, the country is building a stronger foundation for tourism growth and long term economic development.

Conclusion

The inclusion of Techo International Airport among the world’s best new airport terminals marks a proud achievement for Cambodia and reflects the country’s growing reputation for quality infrastructure and hospitality. Combined with new initiatives to strengthen air connectivity and tourism promotion, the recognition demonstrates Cambodia’s determination to become a leading aviation and travel destination in Southeast Asia. As the airport continues to expand and international partnerships grow, the Kingdom is well positioned to welcome more visitors, attract investment, and drive economic progress for decades to come.

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