Cambodia: Khmer New Year events to take place nationwide April 13-16

Cambodia will mark the Khmer New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey) April 13-16 nationwide. Celebratory events are expected to occur at public facilities, including places of worship, and have attracted thousands in previous years. Popular event sites include the Independence Monument, Royal Palace, Wat Botum, Wat Phnom in Phnom Penh, Wat Krom in Preah Sihanouk, and Angkor Wat in Siem Reap. Smaller programs will likely be held in other cities throughout the country. During the celebrations, revelers typically engage in the indiscriminate throwing of water at each other and passersby. However, the Phnom Penh Capital Administration has banned the banning of gambling, splashing water, throwing water bags and/or powder, as well as distribution and sale of fireworks and all kinds of explosives.

Most Cambodians return to their provincial hometowns during the holiday. Increased congestion is likely at airports, train stations, and major highways throughout the country before, during, and after the holiday. Traffic accidents usually spike during the holiday. Public transport could be very crowded, especially in Phnom Penh.

Police will deploy to facilitate traffic and ensure order at places of worship and other celebration venues. Heightened security may result in periodic road closures, especially around sensitive locations. Localized transport disruptions are likely around major celebration sites. Petty crime, such as theft and pickpocketing, typically heightens during holidays.