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.