If you are planning a trip to Siem Reap during Khmer New Year and feeling concerned about rising prices, here is the reassuring news. There is no need to worry this year.

Stable Prices Despite Peak Season Demand

Unlike typical holiday surges where prices often spike, tourism operators in Siem Reap are keeping rates stable. Hotels, including well known properties like J7 Angkor Hotel, have confirmed that room prices remain unchanged even as operational costs increase. This approach is part of a broader effort to support tourism recovery and encourage more visitors to experience the festive season.

For travelers, this means better value and more predictable budgeting during one of Cambodia’s busiest holidays.

Strong Preparation for a Tourism Surge

Authorities are fully prepared for a significant influx of both domestic and international tourists. Hotel occupancy has already reached around 50% and is expected to climb as the holiday approaches.

Under the leadership of provincial authorities, including Governor Prak Sophoan, extensive preparations are in place to ensure:

• Public safety and security across key tourist zones
• Smooth traffic flow with planned road management
• Well organized crowd control during major events

These measures are designed to create a seamless and enjoyable experience for visitors.

Siem Reap Sangkran Brings Energy Back to the City

From April 14 to 16, the city will come alive with the Siem Reap Sangkran, a vibrant celebration filled with culture, tradition, and entertainment.

Visitors can expect:

• Boat racing competitions featuring dragon boats and traditional teams
• Cultural performances and live entertainment
• Festive decorations across the city
• Community activities that highlight Cambodian heritage

This festival is not only a celebration but also a key driver for boosting the local economy and tourism sector.

Clean, Safe, and Ready to Welcome You

Beyond pricing and entertainment, authorities are also prioritizing cleanliness and sanitation. Enhanced waste management systems and citywide cleaning efforts are being implemented to maintain a pleasant environment throughout the period.

Combined with Cambodia’s well known hospitality, Siem Reap continues to position itself as a safe, welcoming, and organized destination.

Why This Matters for Travelers and Businesses?

For tourists, travel agents, and investors, the message is clear. Siem Reap is ready. Stable pricing, improved infrastructure, and a strong focus on safety make this an ideal time to visit.

As home to the iconic Angkor Wat, the city remains one of Southeast Asia’s most compelling destinations, and this Khmer New Year offers a unique opportunity to experience it at its most vibrant.

Final Thought

So, are you still worried about price increases this Khmer New Year? The reality on the ground tells a different story. Siem Reap is not only maintaining stable prices but also elevating the overall visitor experience.

If you are planning your next trip or advising clients, this is the moment to take action and share the opportunity.

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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 Remains Safe for Tourists Amid Border Tensions

Despite recent international headlines reporting clashes between Thai and Cambodian forces, visitors, expatriates, and locals in Siem Reap confirm that the city remains calm and secure. Tourists continue to enjoy major attractions such as Angkor Wat and Pub Street, while local authorities have assured travelers of their full protection. Images of tourists capturing the Equinox at Angkor Wat in March 2025 illustrate the normalcy and vibrant atmosphere in the city.

Official Reassurances from Cambodia Tourism Board

Kim Minea, CEO of the Cambodia Tourism Board, stated, “We wish to clearly reassure travellers, partners and the international media that Cambodia remains safe, stable and fully open for tourism.”

He emphasized that Siem Reap city is distant from the border areas where isolated security incidents have occurred, adding that tourism services, including hotels, flights, ground transport, attractions, and guided tours, are operating as usual. “Daily life in the city continues uninterrupted,” Minea said, further stressing that misinformation should not affect travel decisions as tourists from Europe, the Americas, India, and other regions continue visiting safely and confidently.

Border Conflict Facts and Tourism Impact

According to Cambodia’s Ministry of National Defence, Thai forces dropped bombs near Ou Chik Bridge in Srei Snam District on December 15, 2025, but these events occurred far from Siem Reap city. Nevertheless, some travelers reportedly canceled pre-booked trips due to media reports.

Siem Reap spokesperson Ly Vannak reassured visitors, stating, “We can say that we can ensure the safety of tourists, but we understand that it’s normal for some foreign travellers to cancel their booking as there is tension in Cambodia. Again, they can come anytime as it’s only happening in the border areas. There are many potential tourists in Siem Reap, Preah Sihanouk and Phnom Penh city, which are okay.”

Expats and Tourists Confirm Normalcy

Jane Colvin, an Australian living in Siem Reap for three years, highlighted, “I heard in the news that Thailand had attacked the border in Siem Reap, but not that it was anywhere near Angkor Wat or the city. I have lived in Siem Reap for three years and there is no change.”

Colvin confirmed that major tourism sites, markets, and daily city life operate normally and peacefully, cautioning that negative media coverage might discourage future visitors. Roeurn Serey, a local resident, echoed this sentiment, noting that business and daily routines continue unaffected.

Visitor Experiences and Advice

Sam Davies, an Australian on holiday, shared her perspective:

“It seemed like the fighting was mostly near the border. But, if I was looking for a country to go on holiday, the news would maybe put me off and I would go somewhere else, not Cambodia or Thailand. Now that I’m in Siem Reap, I wouldn’t really know that a war is going on. Everything is open as usual. I went to the temples the other day.” Davies encourages travelers to research carefully, remain calm, and recognize that many areas in Cambodia remain safe.

Community Support and Tourism Encouragement

Online voices have also rallied to support Siem Reap’s tourism industry. A TikTok video by an expatriate named Julie urged visitors not to cancel trips, noting that border conflicts are far from the city and that tourism sustains local families.

“If you cancel the trip, many people will get in trouble, as many families and people rely on tourism. Please come to visit here, as people here are so nice. You can also visit other places, like Kampot or Koh Rong,” she said, emphasizing Cambodia’s welcoming spirit.

Conclusion

Siem Reap remains a safe and vibrant destination despite border tensions. Travelers can explore its cultural heritage, lively markets, and world-famous temples with confidence. With strong reassurances from authorities and first-hand experiences from expats and tourists, Cambodia continues to welcome visitors to experience its rich history, culture, and hospitality.

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If you are thinking about becoming a tour guide or launching your own tour operation, a new initiative from Cambodia’s tourism authorities may be exactly what you need. The Ministry of Tourism, in partnership with the ASEAN China Centre, has rolled out a specialized training program aimed at helping Cambodian tour operators deliver higher quality services tailored to the growing Chinese market. This effort reflects a broader push to strengthen skills, raise service standards, and position Cambodia as a competitive destination in the region.

Building Skills for a Fast Growing Market

The training program, officially launched in Phnom Penh, brought together more than 200 participants including industry professionals, trainers, and tourism leaders. Tourism Minister Hout Hak presided over the opening, alongside Shi Zhongjun, Secretary General of the ASEAN China Centre. The program focuses on practical, real world skills that tour operators can immediately apply, especially when serving Chinese visitors, one of Cambodia’s key tourism markets. By improving service quality and cultural understanding, the initiative aims to help local operators better meet international expectations and build long term business success.

Minister Hout Hak emphasized that Cambodia’s political stability, strong security, and steady economic growth continue to support tourism development. These factors make the country an attractive and safe destination for international travelers, with increasingly convenient air and land connections. For aspiring tour guides and operators, this creates a favorable environment to enter the market and grow a sustainable business.

Strong Promotion Campaigns Driving Tourism Growth

Cambodia is not relying on stability alone. The government is actively promoting the country through major campaigns such as Cambodia-China Tourism Year and the well known Cambodia Kingdom of Wonder branding. These initiatives are designed to showcase the country’s culture, hospitality, and unique travel experiences while strengthening its appeal to global tourists.

At the same time, the Ministry of Tourism is working with partners to diversify tourism offerings and host large scale events. Festivals like the Sea Festival, eco tourism events, and environment focused activities are helping attract a wider range of visitors. For tour operators, this means more opportunities to design creative packages and tap into niche travel segments that go beyond traditional sightseeing.

Regional Cooperation Strengthens Industry Capacity

The collaboration with the ASEAN China Centre plays a critical role in this effort. The organization has consistently supported Cambodia through training programs, investor familiarization trips, and promotional activities that build trust and visibility in the Chinese market. These partnerships are essential for transferring knowledge, improving standards, and opening doors for local businesses to connect with international partners.

Another major boost comes from the upcoming visa policy. From June 15 to October 15, 2026, Chinese tourists will be allowed to stay in Cambodia for 14 days without a visa and can enter and exit multiple times. This temporary measure is expected to significantly increase tourist arrivals, creating immediate opportunities for tour operators who are ready to meet demand with professional and well structured services.

Conclusion

For anyone asking whether now is the right time to become a tour guide or tour operator in Cambodia, the answer is increasingly clear. With strong government support, targeted training programs, and growing international demand, the tourism sector is opening up real opportunities for newcomers and established businesses alike. Investing in skills, understanding key markets like China, and staying aligned with national tourism strategies could be the difference between simply entering the industry and truly succeeding in it.

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