Cambodia Events and Festivals

11/10/2008 - 11/13/2008Bon Om Touk (Water Festival)

The exuberant Bon Om Touk (Water Festival) is an extremely important cultural event in Cambodia that marks the incredible natural spectacle of the reversing flow of the Tonle Sap River. The natural phenomenon occurs during the monsoon season when the water levels of the lower Mekong become so high that it reverses the flow of the Tonle Sap River, forcing the water back up on itself. This event also marks the start of the fishing season and provides a vital source of income for many rural Cambodians. Bon Om Touk begins on the full moon in November and parties, celebrations and cultural displays take place during the next three days of the festival. But the main attraction is the boat races which is a tradition that dates back to the ninth century and the reign of King Jayavarman II. The event has a great carnival atmosphere with markets and food stalls lining the banks and each evening closes with a fireworks display over the river.