Cambodia Welcomes Over 3.5 Million Tourists During New Year Celebrations
Phnom Penh and key destinations draw massive crowds as cultural events enhance tourism appeal
Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism reported an impressive 3.54 million tourists flocking to the country during the final days of 2024, with 50,000 international visitors joining locals in vibrant New Year’s Eve celebrations.
On December 30, tourism numbers reached over 216,000 domestic visitors and more than 18,000 international tourists. However, the main surge occurred on New Year’s Eve, with over 3.27 million locals and nearly 30,000 foreign travelers celebrating across Cambodia.
Phnom Penh emerged as the top destination, attracting over 1.55 million domestic tourists and 18,420 international visitors. The capital’s success was largely driven by the *Celebrating Cambodia* event, organized by the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia and Phnom Penh Capital Hall. This cultural initiative showcased Cambodia's rich heritage and played a pivotal role in drawing both local and international audiences.
Chhay Sivlin, president of the Cambodia Tourism Association, emphasized the importance of such events in promoting tourism, noting that they were actively integrated into CATA travel packages to raise international awareness and boost Cambodia’s appeal as a festive destination.
Other popular locations included Sihanoukville, Siem Reap, Battambang, and Kampot, each contributing to the celebratory atmosphere as Cambodia marked the transition into 2025 with cultural pride and tourism-driven vitality.
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On December 30, tourism numbers reached over 216,000 domestic visitors and more than 18,000 international tourists. However, the main surge occurred on New Year’s Eve, with over 3.27 million locals and nearly 30,000 foreign travelers celebrating across Cambodia.
Phnom Penh emerged as the top destination, attracting over 1.55 million domestic tourists and 18,420 international visitors. The capital’s success was largely driven by the *Celebrating Cambodia* event, organized by the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia and Phnom Penh Capital Hall. This cultural initiative showcased Cambodia's rich heritage and played a pivotal role in drawing both local and international audiences.
Chhay Sivlin, president of the Cambodia Tourism Association, emphasized the importance of such events in promoting tourism, noting that they were actively integrated into CATA travel packages to raise international awareness and boost Cambodia’s appeal as a festive destination.
Other popular locations included Sihanoukville, Siem Reap, Battambang, and Kampot, each contributing to the celebratory atmosphere as Cambodia marked the transition into 2025 with cultural pride and tourism-driven vitality.
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