The Water Festival, or Bon Om Tuk, is the greatest occasion in the Cambodian calendar. Celebrated to mark the end of the monsoon season and the turning of the waters in the great Tonle Sap, hundreds of thousands of Cambodians flock to the capital, Phnom Penh, to join in the festivities — boat races, fireworks and music. Street vendors fill the air with the aroma of freshly cooked food and families picnic on the riverfront.
Most tourist sites are closed over this period so there is no reason not to spend time watching this incredible event. It is extremely crowded on the waterfront so we give you the services of a guide to steer you through the day and help you find the best vantage points from which to watch the festivities.
Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our Cambodia specialists
These activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences around where you're staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident's eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can suggest tours and activities that will introduce you to the local ways of life.
'For the Smile of a Child' Project
Visiting the Stung Meanchey municipal dump is quite a challenging experience as hundreds of children are scavenging here in terrible conditions. However, some organisations such as PSE and CCF are doing a great job helping them toward a better life.
Mekong Sunset Cruise
The scene is one of peace and tranquillity as the sun sets over the city and local villagers come down to the water's edge to bathe.
You can enjoy this activity as part of the suggested tours below, or we can weave it into a trip shaped entirely around you.
