Siem reap: The Pchum Ben Festival, also known as the Festival for the Dead, is one of Cambodia’s most important Buddhist traditions. During this time, people return home to pay respects to their parents and ancestors, and make offerings to monks. Alongside these religious observances, national and international visitors are expected to enjoy the celebrations at major tourist destinations, particularly in Siem Reap province.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the Siem Reap provincial administration has instructed relevant stakeholders to ensure that accommodations, hospitality services, food, and prices meet the needs of tourists. Mr. Thim Sereyvuth, Acting Director of the Provincial Department of Tourism, confirmed that hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, and tourist attractions are fully prepared to welcome both domestic and international guests. He encouraged visitors to explore Siem Reap’s diverse offerings, including cultural heritage, natural landscapes, artificial attractions, and community-based tourism.

Hotel bookings have already begun to rise, according to Ms. Thon Rachana, a representative of Angkor Century Hotel. She emphasised that Siem Reap is a safe destination with high-quality hospitality services suitable for all visitors.

Community tourism sites are also preparing festive activities. Mr. Phuong Savun, representing the Banteay Srei community, noted that visitors can experience authentic local culture through traditional cuisine such as Num Banhchok (Khmer noodles) and palm cakes, as well as ox-cart rides, butterfly and fragrant gardens, boating, and other attractions-all offered at reasonable prices.

This year’s Pchum Ben Festival will be observed from Sept. 21 to 23. Popular tourist destinations-including Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, the coastal provinces, and ecotourism areas-are expected to see a significant surge in visitors.

Last year, during the Pchum Ben holiday (Oct. 1-3), approximately 1.8 million local and international tourists travelled across Cambodia, with about 180,000 of them visiting Siem Reap province.

Top attractions in Siem Reap include the Angkor Archaeological Park, Phnom Kulen National Park, Pub Street, Kampong Phluk Floating Village, and the Banteay Srei ecotourism community, among others.