Kingdom declares 2023 Water Festival a spectacular success

THE tourism departments of 11 provinces reported that this year’s three-day Water Festival, held from November 26-28, attracted nearly 6 million visitors nationwide.

Phnom Penh drew almost 5 million tourists, while other provinces also experienced high visitation, including Battambang with 100,540, Mondulkiri with 32,170 and Preah Vihear with 12,950 visitors.

Oddar Meanchey welcomed 7,100, Kampong Chhnang hosted 52,500 travellers and Pursat received 29,800 tourists. Siem Reap had a substantial 304,200 tourists, Kep attracted 92,761 visitors, Kampot welcomed 84,234 and Preah Sihanouk province saw 262,411 tourists.

Following a three-year hiatus, the Water Festival resumed in Phnom Penh, drawing a large crowd to the nation’s capital to partake in the celebrations. In a November 29 social media post, the Phnom Penh Municipal Administration declared the 2023 Water Festival a success, filled with joy and festivities.

“In appreciation of the armed forces, local authorities, health specialists and sanitation workers, the administration extends gratitude for their dedication in safeguarding security, ensuring safety and maintaining public order to create a pleasant environment for everyone and the entire celebrations,” the post said.

Tang Sochet Kresna, head of the tourism department in Preah Sihanouk province, said that during the festival, multinational tourists enjoyed their time at the beaches. Out of the 262,411 total tourists, 255,233 were domestic, and 7,178 were foreigners. Additionally, 266 visitors boarded six international flights.

He added that 2,431 tourists explored the islands, comprising 1,062 domestic visitors and 1,369 foreigners. The department recorded a total of 259,714 visitors to various beaches and resorts.

“We ensured security and safety throughout these three days under the guidance of provincial governor Kuoch Chamroeun. The provincial police command, in coordination with the provincial military police command and police forces, worked tirelessly to safeguard the peace of mind of both international and domestic visitors, maintaining public order and providing assistance around the clock,” he said.

Soy Sinol, the director of the Kampot provincial tourism department, reported that throughout the festival period, the department documented 84,234 visitors to the province, reflecting a 5.37 per cent increase compared to the corresponding period in 2022.

“We observed that hotel and guesthouse accommodation services reached nearly 100 per cent, and proprietors did not raise prices. Furthermore, the overall situation at tourist resorts and destinations was positive and enjoyable,” he said.

He also said that he anticipates a rise in visitors to the province during the upcoming New Year.

Ho Vandy, an advisor to the Cambodia Association of

Hotels were almost 100% full. The overall situation at tourist resorts and destinations was positive and enjoyable.

Travel Agents, said that typically, domestic travellers explore various provinces during major holidays, with a noticeable surge this year in international visitors.

“The Water Festival is favoured by those who enjoy sightseeing, and this year, Phnom Penh reintroduced the boat race. As a result, the festivities drew an increased number of tourists to the capital city. We welcomed numerous visitors over these three days, possibly due to the high season, resulting in a notable rise in international visitors, as well,” he said.*