Bon Om Touk – Cambodia Water Festival (Most direct translation as ‘Boat Paddling Festival’), is one of Cambodia’s most vibrant and significant celebrations, marking the end of the rainy season and the annual reversal of the Tonle Sap River’s flow. This three-day festival, typically held in November, has deep historical and cultural roots that date back to the Khmer Empire. Bon Om Touk 2024 is held from the 14-16th of November, with most events happening along the Siem Reap River.
If you’ve come to Siem Reap to visit the Angkor Wat temples during this time, you’ve timed your trip perfectly!
Historically, the Cambodia Water Festival honors the Kingdom’s connection to water, a crucial resource for the agricultural society of ancient and modern Cambodia. The Tonle Sap, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, plays a central role in sustaining livelihoods. The natural phenomenon of the river’s reversal signifies the abundance of fish and fertile soil, essential for rice farming.
The origins of Bon Om Touk can be traced to the reign of King Jayavarman VII (1181–1218), who used naval power to protect the Khmer Empire and push back against Champa. According to legend, the boat races that dominate the festival today originated as a tribute to the King’s naval forces, who played a pivotal role in the empire’s victories. These races are seen as a symbolic reenactment of the historic battles fought on Cambodia’s waterways.
Today, the Cambodia Water Festival is a joyous celebration involving communities from across the country. Phnom Penh, the capital, becomes the focal point, with boat races held along the Tonle Sap River near the Royal Palace. Hundreds of ornately decorated boats, each manned by teams of rowers, compete in these thrilling races, cheered on by thousands of spectators. However, Siem Reap is also a fantastic place to be during the water festival and is home to many great events and entertainment along the Siem Reap river, especially if the busy nature of Phnom Penh is a bit too much for you!
The Cambodia Water Festival features parades, concerts, and food stalls, creating a carnival-like atmosphere. Another important aspect is Sampeah Preah Khae, a ceremony paying homage to the moon, believed to bring good fortune and a bountiful harvest. Lanterns and floating offerings illuminate the night skies and waterways, symbolizing hope and renewal.
What’s happening in Siem Reap for the Cambodia Water Festival?
Cambodia really comes to life during Bon Om Touk, with lots of events and fun things to do in Siem Reap. The events will be centred along the Siem Reap River, roughly between the Hard Rock Cafe (Near Pub Street) and extending north up the river towards the Royal Independence Gardens.
The boat races of Bon Om Touk will commence at 2pm on the 14th of November, on the Siem Reap River. This will begin with an opening ceremony outside the Cambodian People’s Party building, along with a boat parade happening towards the Angkor Trade Centre section of the river.
Throughout the festival there will many fun activities set up in the area along the river and on the roads alongside. This includes large stages set up for free live music concerts, carnival game stands and of course, plenty of street food!
There is also lots of fun games such as on-water boxing, floating platforms and “scary biking” where participants attempt to cross a stretch of water on a bicycle over a thin wooden platform!
For a full schedule of the festivities and all the boat races of the Cambodia Water Festival, please see the map image above which shows the locations of the main events and points of interest. Make sure to get out and about during these days and you’ll definitely have a great time!
Please note that Angkor Wat is expected to be very busy to visit during the three days of the Cambodia Water Festival as locals make the journey to the Angkor Wat Temple complex to pray and pay their respects.
If you’re in Siem Reap and looking for things to do inbetween the great Cambodia Water Festival events, make sure to check out our article on 50 Things To Do In Siem Reap
The Bon Om Touk Water Festival is not only a reflection of Cambodia’s cultural heritage but also a time for unity and gratitude. For Cambodians, it’s a moment to celebrate their connection to the land, water, and history, while sharing joy with family and friends.
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