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.