The Traditional Khmer New Year in Cambodia

The Khmer New Year Festival (Choul Chnam Thmey), held annually from April 13 to 15, is the most important holiday in Cambodia when families come together to celebrate the New Year and honor traditional cultural values. Therefore, if you want to experience Cambodia’s vibrant culture, this festival is a fantastic opportunity not to be missed!

Origin of the Khmer New Year Festival

The Khmer New Year Festival, or Choul Chnam Thmey, has a long and rich history. Originally, the festival was celebrated in November or December according to the lunar calendar. However, over time, especially during the Angkor period, the form and timing of the festival changed significantly, reflecting cultural and religious exchanges.

Choul Chnam Thmey is closely associated with Cambodia's agricultural tradition. In the 13th century, kings such as Suryavarman II and Jayavarman VII decided to shift the festival to the fifth lunar month (equivalent to April), coinciding with the agricultural cycle when farmers completed the rice harvest and could rest after a year of hard work.

Initially influenced strongly by Brahmanism, the festival gradually incorporated more Buddhist elements as Buddhism spread, becoming the central focus of the celebration. In the 1970s, under the Khmer Rouge regime, the festival was banned and nearly disappeared. However, after the regime's collapse, the Cambodian people revived and maintained the Choul Chnam Thmey tradition, transforming the festival into a symbol of national culture and identity.

Typical Activities During the Khmer New Year Festival

The Khmer New Year Festival (Choul Chnam Thmey) lasts for three days, each day featuring unique activities and meanings, creating a lively and meaningful atmosphere for the Cambodian people. The festival blends religious rites, traditional activities, and the enjoyment of festive foods, highlighting the culture and ethnic identity of the Khmer people.

Khmer New Year Prayer Activities.

Religious Ceremonies and Activities During the Festival

Throughout the festival, temples become the center of religious rituals. On the first day, Maha Songkran, people prepare offerings like fruits and incense to welcome the new gods, hoping for protection in the coming year. Families spend time praying, while many visit temples to make offerings and receive blessings from monks.

On the second day, Wanabat, the focus is on charitable activities. Many Cambodians choose to help the poor and less fortunate, while others visit monasteries with their families to honor their ancestors. Another distinctive activity on this day is when the entire family, from the oldest to the youngest, gathers at temples to build small sand Stupas. These symbolize the sacred stupa of the Buddha and represent a wish for rain and blessings for a peaceful new year.

The Khmer New Year and the Pithi Srang Preah Ceremony

On the final day, Tngai Laeung Saka, people perform the Pithi Srang Preah ceremony, where they bathe Buddha statues and elderly monks with fragrant water to show gratitude to the Buddha and wash away the misfortunes of the old year. After the temple ceremony, people take the monks to the cemetery to perform rites for the souls of the deceased. Later, each family returns home to perform the ritual of bathing Buddha statues, offering blessings to their grandparents and parents, and seeking forgiveness for past mistakes.

Traditional Games During the Khmer New Year

The Khmer New Year celebration is incomplete without traditional folk games. Games like Chol Chhoung, Leak Kanseng, Bay Khom, Bos Angkunh, and Chap Kon Kleng bring a lively atmosphere and provide an opportunity for interaction between the Cambodian people and visitors. These games are not only fun but also showcase the creativity and dexterity of the participants. It is also a time for young men and women to meet, connect, and get to know each other in a festive environment.

Festive Cuisine and Traditional Clothing

Cuisine plays an essential role in the Khmer New Year celebrations, with dishes like Kralan (sweet sticky rice cakes cooked in bamboo), Khmer curry, Amok fish, and Nom Ansom (sticky rice cakes with various fillings). These foods carry Cambodia's distinctive flavours during the festival and symbolize prosperity and good fortune.

Traditional clothing, including vibrant outfits, is also special during the festival. Wearing new clothes during the New Year celebration symbolizes respect for culture and is a way to welcome a fresh start, full of hope and prosperity.

Activities in the Khmer New Year Festival.

Attractive Locations During the Khmer New Year Festival

Sacred spaces throughout Cambodia come alive with special activities during the Khmer New Year. These historical and cultural landmarks not only offer a festive atmosphere but also allow people and visitors to experience the deep spiritual values of the country.

Temples and Historical Sites

Angkor Wat is the most prominent and valuable destination in Cambodia during the festival. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Angkor Wat is not only famous for its grand architecture but also for its deep spiritual significance. It attracts around 1.8 million visitors during the Khmer New Year. During the festival, Cambodians build small sand Stupas in the temple grounds, symbolizing Valuka Chaitya, believed to contain the Buddha’s hair and crown. Other temples across the country also become sacred spaces during the festival, remaining open longer and offering free admission. Visitors can participate in activities like lighting incense, making offerings, and admiring temples decorated with flowers and lights, creating a sacred and vibrant environment.

Royal Palace Khmer New Year

Main Festival Locations

Siem Reap is the heart of the Khmer New Year celebrations, attracting thousands of Cambodians from different regions and international tourists. The Siem Reap Sangkranta Festival takes place near the Royal Palace, featuring traditional dances, music, and street markets filled with local crafts and food. The relaxed and comfortable atmosphere of Siem Reap contrasts with the lively pace of Phnom Penh. While some residents return to the countryside, the capital Phnom Penh still holds vibrant celebrations around the Royal Palace, with fireworks displays and food stalls along the streets, creating a colorful festival atmosphere.

Battambang and Kampot are also interesting destinations during the festival. Battambang attracts visitors with boat races on the Sangker River, cultural performances, and lively street fairs. Kampot draws nearly a million participants, with ceremonies at temples, fun water fights, and traditional Apsara dances. These special experiences help people and visitors deeply understand the customs and rituals of the Khmer New Year.

Some Tips for Tourists Attending the Khmer New Year Festival

A trip to the Khmer New Year requires careful planning to fully enjoy the festival atmosphere and avoid any unexpected issues. This is a major and important festival in Cambodia, so a well-organized plan will help you have a great and smooth experience.

Transportation to the Festival

During the festival, the Phnom Penh Municipal Council provides free bus services between the capital and other provinces. This service served nearly 50,000 passengers in 2023 and is a popular option during the festival. However, due to the large number of people traveling, it is advisable to book transportation in advance to ensure a seat. Premium bus companies like CAT Mekong Express and Giant Ibis maintain regular schedules and ticket prices but be aware of crowded conditions. Additionally, ATMs may run out of cash during this period, so it’s wise to prepare cash before setting off.

Accommodation and Hotel Choices

The Khmer New Year attracts a large number of tourists, especially in Siem Reap, where the festival reaches its peak. Therefore, it’s recommended to book hotel rooms at least one week in advance. Hotels will fill up quickly during the festival. Moreover, many restaurants and shops may close during this time as staff return to their families. To ensure food options, choose hotels that offer on-site dining services.

Cultural Etiquette and Considerations

Proper attire: When entering temples, men should wear shirts and long pants (not shorts), while women should avoid wearing short skirts or revealing clothing.

Cultural greetings: Learn how to perform "Som Pas" – the traditional Khmer greeting by clasping your hands together in front of your chest and bowing slightly.

Temple etiquette: Don’t forget to remove your shoes before entering temples or homes.

Clothing for water activities: If participating in water games, wear comfortable cotton clothes that dry easily.

The Khmer New Year Festival is an important celebration in Cambodia, blending ancient traditions with modern activities. The three-day festival includes religious rituals at temples and traditional games in the streets, creating a lively and community-focused atmosphere. Customs like building sand stupas and bathing Buddha statues remain the heart of the celebration. Visitors can explore Cambodian culture through fun activities and spiritual rituals at famous landmarks like Angkor Wat. Careful planning for travel, accommodation, and cultural understanding will ensure a fulfilling and meaningful experience during Choul Chnam Thmey.