SIEM REAP – The majestic spires of Angkor Wat are witnessing a vibrant demographic shift. Large groups of Indian tourists, led by expert guides, are now a frequent sight, signaling a strategic pivot in Cambodia’s tourism market toward South Asia.
Latest data from Angkor Enterprise, the state agency managing ticket sales, reveals a significant upward trend in Indian visitors. While they currently represent a growing niche, experts hail this surge as a “positive signal” for the sustained recovery of Siem Reap’s economy.
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The Kolkata-Siem Reap Direct Flight: A Strategic Catalyst
Mr. Ly Se, Director General of Angkor Enterprise, identifies the launch of direct flights between Kolkata and Siem Reap in November 2025 as the primary driver of this growth.
- Current Frequency: The route operates three flights per week.
- Operational Impact: This direct link has slashed travel time, making large-scale “Group Tours” more convenient and affordable for Indian travelers.
Shared Heritage: The Spiritual Magnetism of Angkor
The attraction is deeply rooted in the shared civilizational history of Khmer and Hindu cultures. Unlike solo travelers, Indian visitors typically arrive in organized groups with a specific focus on:
- Cultural Branding: Exploring the Brahmanical architecture of Angkor Wat.
- Sacred Landmarks: Visiting Phnom Kulen, a site of immense religious significance in Hinduism.
- Historical Values: Immersing themselves in the historical ties that bind India and Cambodia.
Shifting Market Trends: From Thailand to Cambodia
In a notable observation during the current High Season, Mr. Ly Se revealed that many Indian travelers are redirecting their plans from Thailand to Cambodia. This shift is attributed to:
- Diplomatic Tensions: Recent frictions between Cambodia and Thailand.
- Religious Sensitivity: Reports regarding the destruction of a Lord Vishnu statue in Thailand—a supreme deity in Hinduism—which prompted travelers to seek out Cambodia’s well-preserved Hindu heritage instead.
The “Peace Dividend”: A 35% Spike in Daily Arrivals
The momentum is palpable. On December 28, 2025, ticket sales at Angkor surged by nearly 1,000 tickets in a single day, jumping from a daily average of 2,800 to 3,800 tickets.
“Proactive government promotion and strategic airline connectivity have driven this increase, especially in the final week of 2025,” Mr. Ly Se emphasized. “We expect this momentum to carry strongly into early 2026.”
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