CAMBODIA
Travel Information |
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Activities
With tourism in Cambodia still in its infancy, activities
as such are generally limited to sightseeing. Phnom Penh's
population of foreigners are kept entertained by a swag
of leisure activities like go-carting, jet-skiing, mini
golf and tenpin bowling. A network of national parks is
slowly being established nationwide, complete with visitor
facilities; Ream and Bokor on the south coast are the
most accessible and interesting. There's limited trekking
and elephant rides in Ratanakiri and Mondulkiri, but you
need a guide. If you fancy a spot of snorkelling you could
try Sihanoukville (also known as Kompong Som), home to
Cambodia's finest beaches.
Events
& Festivals
January 01
International New Year’s Day
April 14-16
Cambodian New Year
A three-day celebration after the end of harvest
to mark the turn of The New Year according to the Khmer
lunar calendar. Every home is seen with attractive decorations.
shrines are full of food and beverages given as offerings
to God.. Other people attend Buddhist temples where traditional
games are also performed.
May 29
Visa Bochea Day - Birthday of Buddha.
May 25
Royal Ploughing Ceremony
It is culturally celebrated to alert the nation
of the commencement of rainy season, and farmers to be
ready for farming rice by starting to plough. The venue
is a field at a wing of Royal Palace, Phnom Penh. The
scene is interesting as it depicts real ploughing activities
where cows are given a variety of crops to eat. Based
on the choices of crops eaten by the cows, prediction
are made for the coming year.
October 24-26
Pchum Ben Day - The Soul Day
A religious festival to bless the souls of ancestors,
relatives and friends alike who have passed away. Household
members attend Buddhist temples.
October 30 - November 1
Birthday of His Majesty King Norodom Sihanouk
A giant firework display is held close to the
riverbanks in front of the Royal Palace.
November 7-9
Water Festival
Not only it marks the reversing flow of Tonle
Sap River but also ushers in the fishing season. The Highlight
of the event is boat races over three days. As night falls,
fireworks light the sky and a lighted flotilla of boats
sail under full moon to whom household worships. Some
analysts say the celebration is also a thanksgiving to
the Mekong River for providing the country with fertile
land. People from all walks of life gather on the bank
of the Mekong River for days and nights.
Late December
International Half marathon. Held at the world renowned
Angkor Wat an event which attracts competitors from all
over the world. With thousands of spectators and the wonder
of Angkor Wat, it is a spectacular setting. |
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