Khmer New Year 2025

River Festival 2025: Celebrating Cambodia’s Natural and Cultural Heritage
Cambodia is a country rich in cultural traditions and natural beauty, and one of the most anticipated annual events that showcases this heritage is the River Festival. This festival, which first began in 2015, is held in a different province each year, highlighting the significance of Cambodia’s rivers in the country’s history, tourism, and daily life. In 2025, the 9th River Festival will take place from March 21 to 23 in Takeo province, under the theme “The Value of River: Bridging Culture with Nature Tourism.” This event will serve as a platform to promote tourism, celebrate local culture, and bring economic benefits to the community while emphasizing the importance of protecting Cambodia’s natural waterways

A Celebration of Culture and Tourism
The River Festival is designed to be a vibrant and inclusive event that attracts visitors from across Cambodia and beyond. It features a variety of cultural performances, exhibitions, and interactive experiences that showcase the rich traditions of the host province. Takeo province, known for its ancient temples, serene landscapes, and historical significance, is an ideal location for this event. The festival’s main venue, Takeo Lakeside Park in Daun Keo City, will provide a stunning backdrop for the festivities, allowing visitors to appreciate both the cultural heritage and natural beauty of the region.

The 2025 festival’s theme emphasizes the deep connection between Cambodia’s rivers and its cultural identity. The event will highlight how rivers have played a vital role in Khmer civilization for centuries, serving as essential transportation routes, sources of livelihood, and centers of spiritual significance. By blending cultural performances with eco-tourism activities, the festival aims to encourage sustainable tourism practices and promote the conservation of Cambodia’s natural resources.

Exciting Activities and Attractions
One of the most exciting aspects of the River Festival is the diverse range of activities it offers. Visitors can enjoy traditional music and dance performances, showcasing Cambodia’s artistic heritage. Local artisans will display their crafts, allowing guests to witness and purchase handmade products that reflect the craftsmanship of Takeo’s skilled artisans. Food lovers will have the opportunity to sample traditional Khmer cuisine, with food stalls offering a variety of local dishes.

Beyond cultural experiences, the festival will also feature sports competitions, including canoeing, kayaking, and boat races, which celebrate the strong connection between Cambodian people and their waterways. A 75-kilometer Phnom Penh-Takeo cycling race is expected to draw professional and amateur cyclists alike. Other sports activities, such as fun runs, volleyball, and traditional Khmer martial arts demonstrations, will provide entertainment and participation opportunities for visitors of all ages.

One of the highlights of the event will be the sky lantern displays, where hundreds of lanterns will be released into the night sky, creating a breathtaking visual experience. This tradition is believed to bring good luck and is a favorite attraction for both locals and tourists.

Economic and Social Impact
The River Festival is not only a celebration but also an important economic and social event. By attracting thousands of visitors, it provides a significant boost to local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and transportation services. The festival also creates opportunities for local entrepreneurs and artisans to showcase their products and generate income.

In preparation for the festival, the Ministry of Tourism has issued guidelines to ensure high-quality services for visitors.

Local vendors are encouraged to decorate their stalls in ways that reflect Khmer culture and the unique identity of Takeo province. Authorities are working closely with businesses to maintain fair pricing, ensure cleanliness, and provide sufficient parking spaces to accommodate large crowds. These efforts aim to enhance the visitor experience and establish Takeo as a premier tourist destination.

A Tradition of Success
Since its launch in 2015, the River Festival has been hosted in different provinces, each offering a unique cultural and natural backdrop. In 2024, the event was held in Siem Reap and attracted over 500,000 visitors, making it one of the most successful editions of the festival. The event was temporarily suspended in 2021 and 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic but resumed in 2023 with great enthusiasm. The 2025 edition in Takeo is expected to continue this success, drawing even larger crowds and further solidifying the festival’s role in Cambodia’s tourism industry.

The Kampot International Tourism Port is expected to play a key role in boosting Kampot’s tourism sector by improving accessibility, attracting more visitors, and enhancing regional connectivity.

Kampot has long been known for its tranquil riverside setting, stunning natural landscapes, and historical attractions, including Bokor Mountain, salt fields, pepper farms, and the colonial-era architecture found in the town. The Kampot International Tourism Port will help promote these attractions to a wider audience by making them more accessible to tourists from Vietnam, Thailand, and beyond.

In addition to attracting new visitors, the port will also encourage longer stays. With easier access to Kampot’s attractions, tourists will be more likely to extend their trips, exploring not only the town itself but also nearby destinations like Kep, Rabbit Island, and the Preah Monivong Bokor National Park. This will result in increased spending on accommodations, food, and activities, contributing to the overall economic growth of the province.

If you’re planning a trip to Cambodia’s beautiful southern coast, the Kampot International Tourism Port is a new and exciting addition that makes traveling to Kampot easier than ever. This modern port connects Kampot with Vietnam (Phu Quoc) and Thailand (Trat), offering a convenient and scenic way to arrive at one of Cambodia’s most charming destinations.

Why Visit Kampot?

Kampot is famous for its relaxed riverside atmosphere, stunning natural landscapes, and rich history. Whether you’re looking to explore Bokor Mountain, visit the famous Kampot pepper farms, cruise along the river at sunset, or enjoy fresh seafood in nearby Kep, Kampot has something for every traveler. With its colonial-era architecture, local markets, and peaceful vibe, it’s the perfect place for a getaway.

How the Port Enhances Your Travel Experience

• Seamless Connectivity: Now, you can travel by ferry between Vietnam, Thailand, and Kampot without long road trips.
• Faster & More Convenient: No need to go through Phnom Penh or Sihanoukville – arrive directly by sea!
• Perfect for Island Hopping: Easy access to Phu Quoc Island (Vietnam) and the Thai coast, making it part of a larger Southeast Asia adventure.
• More Travel Choices: The port will serve cruise ships, speedboats, and ferries, giving travelers flexible options.

What to Expect Upon Arrival

The Kampot International Tourism Port is designed for comfort and efficiency, ensuring a smooth arrival experience. From the port, you’ll find:

• Quick transfers to Kampot town (just 15 minutes away)
• Tuk-tuks and taxis readily available
• Nearby accommodations ranging from budget stays to luxury resorts
• Easy access to tours for exploring Kampot’s best attractions

Plan Your Kampot Adventure

Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences, the Kampot International Tourism Port makes it easier than ever to explore this hidden gem of Cambodia.

Where to Stay in Kampot? – Sokchea Kampot Hotel

If you’re looking for a peaceful and comfortable stay in Kampot, Sokchea Kampot Hotel is the perfect choice. Whether you’re visiting for a honeymoon, a relaxing getaway, or a family vacation, this charming hotel offers a blend of modern comfort and local charm.

Why Stay at Sokchea Kampot Hotel?

✔ Prime Location – Conveniently located near Kampot town, making it easy to explore attractions like the Kampot River, Bokor Mountain, and Salt Fields.
✔ Comfortable Accommodations – Choose from Single, Deluxe, or Family Rooms, all designed with relaxation in mind.
✔ Tranquil Atmosphere – A peaceful retreat with a welcoming ambiance, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.
✔ Friendly Service – Experience Cambodian hospitality with attentive staff ready to make your stay memorable.

Perfect for All Travelers

🏡 Couples & Honeymooners – Enjoy a romantic escape with cozy accommodations.
👨‍👩‍👧 Families – Spacious rooms ensure a comfortable stay for families.
🌍 Solo Travelers & Explorers – A great base to discover Kampot’s culture and nature.

📍 Book your stay at Sokchea Kampot Hotel and experience the best of Kampot in comfort and style! Start your journey here and experience the beauty of Kampot like never before!

The Kroma, a traditional Cambodian scarf, is more than just a piece of cloth—it’s a powerful symbol of Khmer identity, culture, and everyday life. Woven from cotton or silk, the Kroma is typically checkered in patterns of red and white, blue and white, or black and white, though modern variations come in many colors. This versatile garment has been worn by Cambodians for centuries and serves multiple practical and cultural purposes. It can be used as a head covering to shield from the sun, a towel, a face mask for dusty roads, a belt, a baby carrier, or even as a hammock for infants. Farmers wear it while working in the fields, monks drape it over their shoulders, and city dwellers carry it as a sign of national pride. Beyond its function, the Kroma also holds cultural significance, often appearing in traditional dance performances and as a meaningful gift to visitors. Its enduring presence in both rural and urban areas highlights the resilience and resourcefulness of Cambodian people. Whether bought at a local market in Siem Reap or woven by hand in a rural village, the Kroma is a timeless piece of Khmer heritage that connects the past with the present, offering travelers not just a souvenir, but a meaningful glimpse into Cambodia’s rich cultural fabric.

We are incredibly honored to receive the Travelers Review Award 2025 from Booking.com! This recognition is a true testament to the dedication of our team at Sokchea Kampot Hotel and, most importantly, to the trust and support of our wonderful guests. We sincerely thank each and every guest who took the time to share their experiences and reviews on Booking.com. Your kind words and valuable feedback inspire us to continuously improve and provide the best hospitality possible.

At Sokchea Kampot Hotel, we are committed to offering warm and welcoming stays, ensuring every guest enjoys a peaceful retreat by the beautiful riverside of Kampot. Whether you visit for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or simply a relaxing escape, we take great pride in delivering exceptional service and unforgettable moments.

This award motivates us to strive for even greater excellence in the years to come. Thank you again to Booking.com for this prestigious recognition and to all our guests for making this achievement possible. We look forward to welcoming you again soon and creating more memorable experiences together!

Sunset at Kep Beach

Nestled along Cambodia’s southern coast, Kep Beach is a hidden gem that offers an unparalleled experience for sunset enthusiasts. As the day begins to wane, Kep Beach transforms into a serene haven where the vibrant hues of the setting sun paint the sky and sea in a mesmerizing display.

Imagine strolling along the soft sandy shore, the gentle waves lapping at your feet as the sky transitions from the warm glow of daylight to a palette of oranges, pinks, and purples. The calm waters of the Gulf of Thailand mirror the kaleidoscope of colors, creating a breathtaking vista that feels almost surreal.

As you find your perfect spot on the beach, the sun slowly descends towards the horizon, casting a golden path across the water. The silhouette of the distant islands adds to the enchanting scene, providing a picturesque backdrop for this natural spectacle. The tranquil atmosphere is occasionally punctuated by the laughter of children playing in the distance and the soft murmur of conversations from nearby beachgoers, all captivated by the beauty unfolding before them.

Whether you’re a photographer looking to capture the perfect shot, a couple seeking a romantic moment, or a solo traveler in search of peace and reflection, the sunset at Kep Beach offers something for everyone. The experience is enhanced by the simplicity of the surroundings—no towering buildings or bustling crowds, just the pure, unspoiled beauty of nature.

As the sun finally dips below the horizon, the sky’s colors deepen and the first stars begin to twinkle, marking the end of another beautiful day in Kep. The gentle transition from day to night leaves a lingering sense of tranquility and a lasting impression, making sunset at Kep Beach an unforgettable highlight of any visit to this charming coastal town.