The airport, which closed permanently on September 8, 2025, has been decorated with banners and displays celebrating Chaul Chnam Thmey. The trial opening runs daily from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

A Historic Venue Comes Alive

For decades, Phnom Penh International Airport was the Kingdom’s main gateway. Its 1950s terminal and control tower – built during the French colonial era – hold deep historical significance. After the airport’s closure, the government decided to give the public a chance to experience this piece of aviation history before any permanent redevelopment.

Key areas open to visitors:

• Terminal buildings – original 1950s architecture
• Control tower – a landmark structure
• VIP passenger zones
• Aircraft parking areas
• Sections of the runway – walk where millions of travellers once landed

Cultural Performances Add Festive Spirit

Unlike a simple park, the old airport is hosting traditional Khmer performances on its grounds, including:

• Troddi dance
• Chhay Yam dance
• Pinpeat music

These performances offer a unique opportunity to appreciate Cambodia’s cultural heritage in an unconventional setting – right on the tarmac.

Visitor Numbers & Public Response

The working group managing the site has reported positive feedback. Visitors are following safety rules, and the designated parking (motorcycles 1,000 riel, cars 2,000 riel) has been well used.

Practical Information for Visitors

What to bring: Water, sunscreen, a hat, and a fully charged phone for photos. The runway offers little shade – early morning (5–7 AM) or late afternoon (4–6 PM) are best.

Why This Matters for Phnom Penh

The trial opening serves two purposes:

1. Give the public a memorable Khmer New Year experience – a chance to walk on a historic runway.
2. Test the feasibility of turning the old airport into a permanent public park – the government is studying options for the 300‑hectare site.

For urban planners and investors, the old airport’s future is significant. A permanent park would create a massive green lung in central Phnom Penh, boosting nearby property values and quality of life. Mixed‑use development (retail, museums, sports facilities) is also possible.

Related Travel Guides

• Phnom Penh Travel Guide 2026
• Maha Sangkran & Khmer New Year 2026: Ultimate Guide
• Techo International Airport: Complete Guide for Travelers (2026)
• Cambodia Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will the old airport be open to the public?
From April 11 to April 19, 2026 (nine days). Hours: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily.

Do I need a ticket?
No, entry is free.

Can I go inside the control tower?
The announcement lists the control tower as a “key area”, but it is not specified whether visitors can enter. Most likely you can view it from the outside.

Is the old airport permanently closed to flights?
Yes. It closed on September 8, 2025. All flights now use Techo International Airport (KTI) in Kandal Province.

Will the old airport become a permanent park?
The government is studying the possibility. The current trial opening is a test. A final decision has not been announced.

What should I bring?
Water, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera. There is no shade on the runway, so avoid midday (11 AM – 2 PM).

Disclaimer

This article is based on information from the inter‑ministerial working group and Agence Kampuchea Presse (AKP) as of April 13, 2026. Hours, access rules, and fees may change. Visitors should check local announcements before heading to the site.

Final Thoughts

The transformation of Phnom Penh’s old airport into a Khmer New Year park is a brilliant blend of nostalgia, culture, and public space. The turnout of 15,000 visitors on the first day proves that Cambodians – and tourists – are eager to reconnect with this historic site. Whether it becomes a permanent green lung for the capital or a mixed‑use development, one thing is certain: the old airport’s story is far from over.

Sources: Agence Kampuchea Presse (AKP), Inter‑ministerial Working Group

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U.S. Embassy Alert: What You Need to Know

On April 9, 2026, the U.S. Embassy issued a security alert highlighting potential risks during the Khmer New Year celebrations. The alert notes that the “Nokor Sangkran” event will be held in Phnom Penh from April 14–19, 2026, at multiple locations including Wat Phnom, Riverside Park, Independence Monument, Bassac Lane and nearby areas. U.S. citizens should expect large crowds and severe traffic disruptions.

The embassy also warned that historically during Khmer New Year there is a higher‑than‑normal incidence of driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, leading to an increase in traffic fatalities. In addition, there is an observed rise in petty crime, such as pickpocketing and phone snatching, in the days and weeks surrounding the holiday.

The Grim Reality: Traffic Accidents During the Holiday

The embassy’s warnings are not unfounded. In 2025, during the five‑day Khmer New Year period (April 12–16), Cambodia recorded 44 traffic accidents, resulting in 36 deaths and 66 injuries. While this represented a slight improvement from 2024 (50 accidents, 39 deaths), the figures remain sobering.

The Department of Traffic and Public Order Police identified the main causes as speeding, reckless overtaking, driving under the influence, and failing to respect traffic rules – especially at night. The surge in traffic, combined with festive drinking and poor enforcement, often leads to a spike in road‑related deaths and injuries.

Safety Tips for Travelers & Residents

Based on the U.S. Embassy alert and local statistics, here are practical steps to stay safe:

1. Use Trusted Transport

• Always use PassApp or Grab for tuk‑tuk and taxi rides. These apps provide fixed prices, driver tracking, and a record of your trip.
• If you must hail a tuk‑tuk on the street, agree on the price before getting in.

2. Don’t Drink and Drive

• Never drive a scooter or car after consuming alcohol. Traffic fatalities spike dramatically during the holiday.
• Use a designated driver, taxi, or tuk‑tuk.

3. Protect Your Belongings

• Keep phones and wallets out of sight when walking near roads. Phone snatching by motorbike passengers is common in crowded areas.
• Use a cross‑body bag worn in front with zippers closed.
• Leave passports and extra credit cards in your hotel safe.

4. Stay Aware in Crowds

• Pickpockets thrive in dense crowds. Keep a firm grip on your phone when taking photos or checking maps.
• Travel in groups, especially at night.

5. Emergency Numbers

• Tourist Police (Phnom Penh): 012 942 484
• National Police: 117
• Ambulance: 119
• U.S. Embassy Phnom Penh: +855‑23‑728‑000

 Pro tip: Enroll in the U.S. SMART Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real‑time security updates from the embassy.

Plan Ahead for a Safe Celebration

Khmer New Year is a time of joy, water blessings, and cultural pride. By staying vigilant, using trusted transport, and protecting your valuables, you can celebrate safely. The U.S. Embassy’s alert is a helpful reminder – not a reason to stay home.

Chaul Chnam Thmey! (Happy New Year!)

Related Travel & Safety Guides

• Maha Sangkran & Khmer New Year 2026: Ultimate Guide to Cambodia’s Celebration
• Cambodia Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
• How to Avoid Scams in Cambodia (Tourist & Business)
• Tuk‑Tuk Fare Estimator
• Cambodia Travel Cost 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the U.S. Embassy warning a reason to cancel my trip?
No. The alert is a precaution, not a travel ban. Thousands of tourists celebrate safely every year. Follow the safety tips and you will likely have a wonderful experience.

What is the safest way to get around during Khmer New Year?
Use PassApp or Grab for tuk‑tuks and taxis. Apps provide fixed prices and driver tracking. Avoid hailing tuk‑tuks on the street without agreeing on a fare first.

What should I do if I am robbed?
Do not chase the perpetrator (motorbike snatchers may drag you). Immediately go to the nearest police station or call the Tourist Police (012 942 484). Cancel any stolen cards via your bank’s app.

Are there any areas I should avoid?
Avoid walking alone late at night on dark beaches or quiet streets. In Phnom Penh, be extra cautious near Riverside, Wat Phnom, and Independence Monument during crowded hours.

Do I need to enroll in STEP?
If you are a U.S. citizen, enrolling in the SMART Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is highly recommended. You will receive real‑time security updates from the embassy.

What is the penalty for drunk driving in Cambodia?
Fines are steep, and you could be jailed. More importantly, traffic fatalities spike during the holiday. Do not drink and drive – use a tuk‑tuk or taxi.

The post Khmer New Year 2026: U.S. Embassy Warns of Traffic, Drunk Driving & Petty Crime appeared first on ORKUN SANTEPHEAP.

For travelers, it’s a spectacular time to experience Cambodia at its most vibrant – full of water blessings, traditional games, temple rituals, and infectious joy. This guide covers everything you need to know: the three sacred days, where to celebrate, traditional games, delicious holiday food, and essential safety tips.

Key Dates for Khmer New Year 2026

The Three Sacred Days of Khmer New Year

Day 1: Maha Sangkran (April 14) – Welcoming the New Angel

The first day is the most spiritually significant. Families clean and decorate their homes, then set up small altars with fruit, flowers, and incense to welcome Reaksa Tevy – the new year’s heavenly angel who descends to bring blessings for the year ahead.

Many Cambodians visit pagodas to pray, light incense, and make offerings to monks. In return, monks chant blessings for prosperity, health, and happiness. A symbolic ritual involves washing Buddha statues with perfumed water – a practice that represents spiritual cleansing and the washing away of bad luck from the old year.

Day 2: Virak Vanabat (April 15) – Gratitude & Charity

The second day is devoted to giving back. Families go to pagodas to honor their ancestors and make food offerings to monks. A beautiful tradition is the building of sand mounds (Phnom Khsach) on temple grounds. Each grain of sand is said to wash away sins, and the mound is built to ask for blessings, good luck, and rain for the coming harvest.

This is also a day for performing merit‑making ceremonies (Boon). Many people visit elders to ask for forgiveness and blessings, reinforcing family bonds and respect for older generations.

Day 3: Virak Laeung Sak (April 16) – Purification & New Beginnings

The final day is the most energetic and joyful. Buddha statues and elders are washed with perfumed water to show respect and purify the soul. This practice extends to the streets, where water fights and talcum powder blessings become a playful way to “wash away” bad luck and greet the new year with a clean slate.

Many Cambodians also make New Year’s resolutions – setting intentions for personal growth, career, and family in the year ahead. It’s a time of renewal, fresh starts, and optimism.

Traditional Khmer New Year Games

Beyond the water fights, Khmer New Year is celebrated with a variety of traditional folk games that have been passed down for generations. You’ll see these played at pagodas, public parks, and village squares across the country.

These games aren’t just entertainment – they embody the values of love, unity, and national solidarity that define Khmer New Year.

Major Public Celebrations in 2026

Phnom Penh – Nokor Sangkran (April 14–19)

The capital hosts the largest urban celebration, “Nokor Sangkran” , spanning six days at multiple iconic locations, including:

• Wat Phnom – The spiritual heart of the city, featuring a spectacular golden horse statue (symbolizing the Year of the Horse) standing nearly four metres tall.
• Vattanak Park
• Wat Botum Vatey Park
• Riverside Park (Sisowath Quay)
• Independence Monument
• Chaktomuk Walk Street
• Bassac Lane

Visitors can enjoy traditional ceremonies such as the welcoming of the New Year angel, parades, Buddhist processions, sand‑mountain building, ritual bathing of Buddha statues, cultural performances, and traditional games.Pedestrian zones and nightlife areas are fully engaged, adding vibrancy to the city’s evenings.

Siem Reap – Angkor Sankranta (April 14–16)

Siem Reap’s famous Angkor Sankranta takes place in the Angkor Archaeological Park and city center, from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily. Over 3,000 Cambodian youth, actors, and performers participate, and authorities expect to welcome around 100,000 local and international visitors.

Celebrations are held in front of Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple, and the Elephant Terrace – a breathtaking backdrop for traditional dances, apsara performances, evening concerts, and fireworks. This is the premier destination for travelers wanting to experience Khmer New Year in a world‑heritage setting.

Other Provinces (More Local Experience)

For a quieter, more intimate celebration, consider smaller towns. Seven provinces have confirmed Sankranta events: Battambang, Kampong Cham, Kampong Thom, Mondulkiri, Stung Treng, and Prey Veng. These events focus on folk games, traditional arts, and local food – without the massive crowds of the major cities.

Water Fights & Talcum Powder Blessings

No Khmer New Year is complete without water fights. What began as a gentle ritual of sprinkling water for blessings has evolved into a nationwide celebration. Young people line the streets with buckets, hoses, and water guns, splashing anyone who passes by – motorbikes, tuk‑tuks, and pedestrians alike.

You’ll also see people smearing white talcum powder on faces and arms. This is not harassment – it’s a traditional blessing, symbolizing protection and good luck. If it happens to you, just smile and enjoy the moment; it’s all part of the fun.

 Note for 2026: Some provinces have scaled back or prohibited water and powder throwing this year due to the recent border conflict and the presence of displaced families. Siem Reap’s celebrations will be smaller than in previous years. Check local announcements before you go.

Traditional Food to Try

Khmer New Year is a feast for the senses, and the food is unforgettable. These special dishes are prepared only during the holiday:

Don’t leave without trying these holiday specialties – they’re a delicious way to connect with Khmer culture.

Travel Tips for Khmer New Year 2026

Where to Celebrate

Getting Around

• Tuk‑tuks are your best friend during the holidays. Use PassApp or Grab to avoid haggling and ensure fixed prices.
• Expect severe traffic disruptions, especially in Phnom Penh near Wat Phnom, Riverside, and Independence Monument.
• Roads to provinces can be crowded as millions of Cambodians return to their hometowns. Book transport early.

What to Pack

• Light, quick‑dry clothing – April is very hot.
• Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses – the tropical sun is intense.
• Waterproof phone pouch – essential if you plan to join water fights.
• Towel and change of clothes – you will get wet!
• Reusable water bottle – stay hydrated.
• Flip‑flops or sandals – easy to remove when entering pagodas.

Practical Advice

• Book accommodation well in advance – hotels fill up quickly, especially in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
• Carry small USD bills – many street vendors and tuk‑tuk drivers prefer cash.
• Expect some businesses to close – especially on April 14–16 when families gather. Plan your meals and errands accordingly.

Safety & Cultural Etiquette

Stay Safe

The U.S. Embassy has issued a security alert for Khmer New Year, warning of:

• Increased drunk driving – traffic fatalities rise significantly during the holiday.
• Petty crime – pickpocketing and phone snatching are more common in crowded areas.

Actions to take:

• Remain vigilant and safeguard your belongings.
• Avoid walking alone late at night in quiet areas.
• Use trusted transport (PassApp, Grab) and avoid riding a scooter if you’ve been drinking.
• Keep phones and wallets out of sight when walking near traffic.

Respect Local Customs

• Dress modestly when visiting pagodas – cover shoulders and knees. Remove shoes before entering temple buildings.
• Don’t refuse a water blessing – it’s considered rude. Just smile and accept it as good luck.
• Avoid touching anyone’s head – the head is considered the most sacred part of the body.
• Don’t point your feet at people or Buddha images – it’s considered disrespectful.

Related Travel Guides

• Cambodia Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
• Siem Reap Travel Guide 2026
• Phnom Penh Travel Guide 2026
• How to Avoid Scams in Cambodia (Tourist & Business)
• Best Time to Visit Cambodia – Month by Month (2026)

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the dates for Khmer New Year 2026?
The three main days are April 14 (Maha Sangkran), April 15 (Virak Vanabat), and April 16 (Virak Laeung Sak). Phnom Penh’s “Nokor Sangkran” continues until April 19.

Where is the best place to celebrate Khmer New Year?
Phnom Penh (Nokor Sangkran) offers large‑scale urban festivities. Siem Reap (Angkor Sankranta) provides a world‑heritage backdrop. For a local experience, visit Battambang, Kampot, or smaller villages.

Are water fights allowed everywhere?
Yes, but some provinces have scaled back or prohibited water and powder throwing in 2026 due to the border conflict and displaced families. Check local announcements.

Do I need to book accommodation in advance?
Absolutely. Hotels in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap fill up weeks ahead. Book as early as possible.

What should I wear?
Light, quick‑dry clothing. A waterproof phone pouch is essential if you plan to join water fights. Dress modestly when visiting pagodas (cover shoulders and knees).

Is it safe to drive during Khmer New Year?
Traffic accidents spike due to drunk driving. Use PassApp or Grab instead of driving yourself. Never drink and drive.

Disclaimer

The information in this guide is based on official announcements and travel resources as of April 2026. Celebrations, schedules, and safety conditions may change. Always check with local authorities and your embassy before traveling.

Final Thoughts

Khmer New Year is a time when Cambodia truly shines. From the spiritual rituals at ancient pagodas to the joyful chaos of water fights on city streets, the holiday embodies the Kingdom’s warmth, resilience, and deep cultural pride. Whether you choose to celebrate in the shadow of Angkor Wat, join the urban festivities in Phnom Penh, or discover a quiet village celebration, you’ll leave with memories – and perhaps a few water splashes – that will last a lifetime.

Chaul Chnam Thmey! (Happy New Year!)

The post Maha Sangkran & Khmer New Year 2026: The Ultimate Guide to Cambodia’s Grandest Celebration appeared first on ORKUN SANTEPHEAP.