Bon Om Touk: A Guide to Cambodia's Epic Water Festival
A massive 3-day festival celebrating the end of the rainy season.
Annually in November, on the full moon of the Kadeuk month.
The largest celebration is in Phnom Penh, with smaller events in other provinces like Siem Reap.
To mark the reversal of the Tonle Sap River's flow and give thanks for the fertile land.
Once a year, the banks of the Tonle Sap River in Phnom Penh explode into a riot of color, sound, and celebration. Bon Om Touk, or the Cambodian Water Festival, is one of the most spectacular events in the nation's calendar. For three days, millions of people gather to witness thrilling boat races, admire illuminated floats, and give thanks to the rivers that sustain them.
The Three Ceremonies of Bon Om Touk
1. The Boat Races (Bon Om Touk)
This is the main event. Hundreds of brightly painted, traditional longboats, each with a crew of up to 80 paddlers, race fiercely on the Tonle Sap River. The energy is electric as teams from villages across Cambodia compete for the honor of being champion.
2. The Illuminated Floats (Bandaet Pratip)
As night falls, the river glows with the light of Bandaet Pratip. These are massive, beautifully decorated floats, sponsored by various government ministries and institutions, that parade down the river, creating a stunning visual spectacle followed by fireworks.
3. Salutation to the Moon (Sampeah Preah Khae)
On the final night of the festival, families gather to give thanks to the full moon. They make offerings of special dishes, like Ambok (flattened rice), and pray for a bountiful harvest in the year to come.
A View from the Festival
Tips for Experiencing the Water Festival
- Be Prepared for Crowds: Millions of people attend, especially along the riverside in Phnom Penh. Be patient and keep your belongings secure.
- Book Accommodation Early: Hotels in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap fill up months in advance. Book as early as possible.
- Find a Good Viewing Spot: The riverside area near the Royal Palace is the heart of the action. Arrive early to get a good spot or consider booking a spot at a rooftop bar or restaurant.
- Stay Hydrated: November can still be very hot. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Embrace the Atmosphere: The Water Festival is a joyous, and sometimes chaotic, celebration of Cambodian life. Dive in, enjoy the energy, and have an unforgettable time!
If you were in Phnom Penh during this time, did you enjoy it? Why or why not? Share your thought with us in the comments below!
