Phnom Penh launches six day ‘Nokor Sangkran’ festival to showcase culture, boost tourism

PHNOM PENH, April 2, 2026 (KPT) –  Phnom Penh will host a six day “Nokor Sangkran” festival during Khmer New Year, city officials said Wednesday, unveiling a major cultural event designed to attract tourists, revive urban vibrancy and celebrate national traditions.

Organized by the Phnom Penh Capital Administration with the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia, the festival will run from April 14 to 19, transforming Wat Phnom, the riverside Walk Street, the Night Market and lifestyle hubs such as Bassac Lane and Tuol Tompoung into cultural stages.

Highlights include Buddha processions, sand mountain ceremonies, parades, traditional games and exhibitions of local products. The riverside Walk Street will open for six days as a car free zone, offering food, entertainment and community gatherings.

The event reflects efforts to position Phnom Penh as a dynamic cultural and tourism destination while fostering national unity. Authorities expect large crowds and have prepared safety and traffic measures.

The festival is part of Cambodia’s broader push to strengthen its tourism sector, support local businesses and showcase Khmer heritage to international visitors.