The Equinox Angkor is one of the most popular events

The Equinox Angkor is a special solar phenomenon that occurs twice a year at Angkor Wat in Cambodia. The first event, called the Vernal Equinox, typically occurs between March 21st and 23rd from 5:00 AM to 6:30 AM. The second event, known as the Autumnal Equinox, usually takes place in September.

The Equinox Angkor is one of the most popular events, attracting tourists from around the globe as well as local Cambodians. During these events, thousands of visitors gather in front of the western entrance of the Angkor Wat temple, waiting to witness and capture photos of the breathtaking sunrise.

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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.

Kampot has recently introduced a captivating musical water fountain show, popularly referred to as the “Water Dance,” which has become a weekend highlight for local tourists. This attraction features water jets choreographed to dance in harmony with music, creating a mesmerizing display that enhances the city’s nighttime ambiance. The initiative aims to showcase Kampot’s creativity after sunset and has successfully drawn local visitors seeking evening entertainment.

In addition to the Water Dance, Kampot offers various water-related activities that contribute to its vibrant tourism scene. The annual Bon Om Touk, or Cambodian Water Festival, celebrated in November, features boat races and festivities along the river, providing both participants and spectators with a lively cultural experience.

For those interested in more active pursuits, the Arcadia Waterpark offers a range of water-based attractions, including a large water slide, Russian swing, and the “Blob,” catering to adventure seekers looking for excitement along the river.

These diverse offerings, from the enchanting Water Dance to cultural festivals and adventure parks, highlight Kampot’s commitment to providing unique and engaging experiences for visitors.

As of May 2025, conservation efforts in Cambodia’s Kampot province continue to focus on the protection and study of the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins, commonly known as pink dolphins. These dolphins are primarily found in the coastal waters of Kampot and Koh Kong provinces.

Population Monitoring and Conservation Efforts

Marine Conservation Cambodia (MCC), in collaboration with the Fisheries Administration (FiA) and local communities, has been actively monitoring the dolphin populations. Recent surveys have estimated the presence of approximately 40 to 46 pink dolphins and 20 to 30 Irrawaddy dolphins in the areas of Prek Tnaot, Trapeang Ropov, and Chhanghon within Kampot province . These efforts include the installation of sonar sensors to accurately track dolphin pods and the use of artificial habitats to support their growth .

Community Involvement and Ecotourism

Local communities have been instrumental in conservation activities. Fishermen are encouraged to report and release any accidentally captured dolphins. Additionally, community-led ecotourism initiatives offer boat tours for visitors to observe dolphins, seagrass beds, and other marine life, providing both educational experiences and alternative income sources for locals .

Challenges and Ongoing Research

Despite these positive developments, challenges remain. In April 2025, a pink dolphin was found dead off the coast of Kampot. While the cause of death remains undetermined, such incidents highlight the need for continued vigilance and research to ensure the protection of these endangered species .

Overall, the collaborative efforts between conservation organizations, government agencies, and local communities have contributed to the ongoing protection and study of pink dolphins in Cambodia’s coastal regions.

The Sea Festival 2024, marking its 11th edition, will take place in Kampot province from December 13 to 15. This year’s theme, “Celebrating Heritage and Coastal Sustainability,” reflects the festival’s focus on honoring the region’s rich maritime traditions while highlighting the importance of preserving coastal environments. Attendees can look forward to a vibrant array of activities that celebrate both cultural heritage and sustainable practices.

Organized by a coalition including the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, and the Provincial Administration of Kampot, the festival is supported by various institutions and private sector partners. This collaboration underscores a unified commitment to showcasing Cambodia’s maritime heritage and promoting coastal sustainability.

A significant highlight of the event will be the official Opening Ceremony on December 14, presided over by Prime Minister Hun Manet and First Lady Pich Chanmony. Their participation emphasizes the festival’s role in fostering national pride and cultural heritage while reinforcing the commitment to environmental stewardship.

The festival promises an exciting lineup of activities, including live concerts featuring local and international artists, vibrant performances, and spectacular fireworks displays. Visitors can also participate in sports competitions, explore exhibitions showcasing tourism and local products, and indulge in a variety of food and beverage offerings. These events aim to provide a comprehensive experience of Cambodia’s coastal culture and attractions.

Since its inception in 2011, the Sea Festival has been held in rotation across Cambodia’s four coastal provinces: Preah Sihanouk, Kep, Koh Kong, and Kampot. The festival aims to highlight the tourism potential of these regions while fostering collaboration among the private sector, public entities, and various stakeholders, ultimately encouraging efforts to protect and preserve marine resources and beach environments.

With a coastline spanning approximately 450 kilometers across these provinces, Cambodia boasts stunning natural beauty and diverse marine ecosystems. The country’s dedication to its coastal areas was further recognized when it joined the Most Beautiful Bays in the World (World-Bays Club) in mid-2011.

The Sea Festival 2024 aims to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Cambodia’s coastal regions while promoting sustainable tourism practices. By blending cultural festivities with environmental awareness, the festival seeks to enhance public understanding and involvement in preserving these vital natural resources.

This year’s event in Kampot promises to be a memorable celebration, combining entertainment, culture, and sustainability to highlight the beauty and significance of Cambodia’s coastal regions

The Water Festival this year falls on November 7-9. But with Cambodia set to host the ASEAN summit and related meetings in the same week this month, the festival are not being celebrated in Phnom Penh, though some provinces have been holding celebrations since October.

Known locally as Bon Om Touk, the festival takes place in late October or early November to mark the end of the monsoon season as well as the change in flow of the Tonle Sap River.

The second day of the festival aligns with the date of the full moon on the Khmer lunar calendar month of Katdoek (or Kartika in Sanskrit), which is said to be when the long-cycle rice crop is ready for harvest.

The festival usually features dragon longboat races on its first day. Royal boat races have been held in Cambodia since at least the time of King Jayavarman VII to celebrate the victory of the Khmer navy over Cham invaders from the Champa kingdom in a large boat battle on the Tonle Sap Lake.

During the Longvek period of the 16th and 17th centuries, King Ang Chan I appointed Ponhea Yat as the “earth-guardian” in Kampuchea Krom’s Bassac district and he organised the navy into three groups to defend the region from invasion by the Da Viet kingdom under ruler Mac Dang Dung.

Kampot, a charming riverside town in southern Cambodia, offers a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural experiences. Here are some things to do in Kampot:

  1. Explore Bokor National Park: Take a trip to Bokor Mountain, where you can explore the national park’s lush rainforest, visit the old French hill station, and see the abandoned buildings, including the Bokor Palace Hotel.
  2. Cruise along the Kampot River: Enjoy a leisurely boat cruise along the scenic Kampot River. You can take a sunset cruise or opt for a daytime excursion, which often includes stops at riverside villages and opportunities for swimming or kayaking.
  3. Visit Kampot Pepper Farms: Kampot is renowned for its high-quality pepper. Visit one of the local pepper farms to learn about the cultivation process and sample some of the world-famous Kampot pepper.
  4. Explore Kampot Town: Wander around Kampot’s picturesque streets lined with colonial-era buildings, boutique shops, and art galleries. Don’t miss the Old Market, where you can sample local snacks and shop for souvenirs.
  5. Take a Kampot Pepper Farm Tour: Go on a guided tour of one of the pepper farms in the area to learn about the cultivation process of Kampot pepper, which is renowned for its unique flavor and aroma.
  6. Visit Salt Fields: Take a trip to the nearby salt fields, where you can observe the traditional method of salt production and learn about the importance of salt in Cambodian cuisine and culture.
  7. Explore Kep: Kep, famous for its seafood and relaxed atmosphere, is just a short drive away from Kampot. Visit the Kep Crab Market, relax on the beach, or hike up to Kep National Park for panoramic views of the coastline.
  8. Try Water Sports: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the serene waters of the Kampot River. You can also try your hand at windsurfing or kiteboarding if you’re feeling adventurous.
  9. Visit Phnom Chhnork Cave: Explore the ancient Phnom Chhnork Cave, which features a Hindu temple dating back to the 7th century. The cave is located a short drive from Kampot and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  10. Sample Local Cuisine: Don’t leave Kampot without trying some of the local delicacies, such as fish amok, crab with Kampot pepper, or grilled squid. There are plenty of restaurants and street food stalls where you can taste authentic Cambodian dishes.