Other lively spots to mark new year include Siem Reap and Battambang, where official celebrations usually take place. In contrast, the countryside comes to life as people flock home to celebrate. If you plan on staying in the city, a bit of pre-planning is advisable. This means the capital empties out and the majority of shops, restaurants and attractions shut during this time. As a major holiday that spans three days, most Cambodians will take the week off work and head to their homeland to spend the holidays with family. If you happen to be in Cambodia during Khmer New Year, then follow in locals’ footsteps and trade in the city for the provinces and celebrate local style.

The Khmer greeting for “Happy New Year” is usually accompanied by a bucket – or several – of water and talcum powder being hurled your way – but that’s all part of the lively festivities that mark Cambodian new year. “Susaday Chnnam Thmei” is a term you’ll commonly hear ringing through the air during Khmer New Year.

The date of Khmer New Year varies slightly each year but usually falls around mid-April, to mark the end of the harvest season, and takes in three days of celebrations. Khmer New Year is the biggest festival on the Khmer calendar – and there are a lot, so prepare yourself for a solid three-day celebration countrywide.

Khmer calendar 2022