Bon Om Touk (Cambodia Water Festival) 2026
Festival

Bon Om Touk (Cambodia Water Festival) 2026

Monday, November 23, 2026 – Wednesday, November 25, 2026
Phnom Penh Riverfront
Bon Om Touk, also known as the Cambodian Water Festival, takes place on November 23, 2026, along the Phnom Penh riverfront. This annual event celebrates the natural reversal of the Tonle Sap River's flow, a phenomenon that has significant cultural and agricultural importance in Cambodia. Central to the festivities are exhilarating long-boat races, where colorful teams row traditional boats in timed competitions on the Tonle Sap and Mekong rivers. After the races, illuminated boat parades light up the water, creating a lively spectacle that draws large crowds each year. The festival culminates with a synchronized fireworks display that fills the night sky above Phnom Penh, providing a captivating end to the celebrations. Bon Om Touk is both a cultural occasion and a lively gathering that brings together locals and visitors to honor water’s vital role in Cambodian life. The riverfront area is animated with stalls selling local delicacies, traditional music performances, and various entertainment. This festival provides insight into Cambodian traditions and the community’s connection to their waterways.

Tips for Attending

  • Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the riverfront for the boat races.
  • Bring a lightweight raincoat or umbrella, as November can sometimes see brief showers.
  • Try local street foods available in the festival area for a taste of Cambodian flavors.
  • Carry small denominations of Cambodian riel or US dollars for purchases at stalls.
  • Wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking and standing for extended periods.

Practical Information

Budget: Entry to riverfront events is generally free; budget for food, transport, and possibly accommodation ranging from budget to mid-range.. Duration: The main events take place over a single day, but festivities extend for several days around the date.. Food Drink: Street vendors offer a variety of Cambodian snacks and meals; bottled water is recommended to stay hydrated.. What To Wear: Light, breathable clothing with comfortable shoes; bring a hat and sunscreen for daytime and a light jacket for evening.. Getting There: Phnom Penh is served by an international airport, and the riverfront is easily accessible by tuk-tuk or taxi from anywhere in the city.. Booking Advice: Book accommodations in Phnom Penh well in advance, as the festival attracts many visitors.

Best For

culturefamiliesphotographyfestivals

Venue

Phnom Penh Riverfront

Activities During the Festival

Attending Bon Om Touk (Cambodia Water Festival) 2026? Make the most of your visit with these recommended activities.

Four men smiling with white powder on their faces at night near temple steps with greenery and lights
Cultural & History
Viator
10.0/10
(19 reviews)

What sets my tour apart? My tour goes beyond typical sightseeing by combining Phnom Penh’s landmarks with hidden gems, offering travelers a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s history, culture, and daily life. From the Independence Monument and King Norodom Sihanouk Statue to the Royal Palace (exterior view) and National Museum, I share stories of Cambodia’s journey—from independence in 1953 to peace in 1993 and the nation’s growth today. What makes this tour unique is the personal storytelling of a licensed local guide, enriched with visits to a Buddhist monastery, lively alleyways, and vibrant markets like the Central Market and Night Market. Travelers not only see the sights but also experience the city’s resilience, spirituality, and modern vibrancy.

From
€12
per person
View →
Three people wearing helmets and orange shirts on a dirt road with greenery and houses in the background
Cultural & History
Viator
10.0/10
(30 reviews)

On this tour, we'll take you on a journey through the serene countryside of Siem Reap, where you'll discover the heart and soul of Cambodian culture. We'll visit a beautiful pagoda where you'll learn about the spiritual traditions of the Khmer people and get a glimpse of daily life in the local community. Our knowledgeable guides will share with you the fascinating history from its past to the present day. You'll also have the chance to see how the locals make use of their surroundings, from farming to weaving intricate textiles, traditional medicine and even Palm juice. This is a truly immersive experience that will leave you with a deep appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Cambodia. The adventure doesn't stop there! We offer a fantastic lunch experience. You'll be treated to a unique Khmer lunch prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. We believe that food is an integral part of any travel experience, and our Khmer lunch will surely tantalize your taste buds.

From
€75
per person
View →
Three women riding bicycles on a dirt path with flowers and greenery under a partly cloudy sky
Food & Cooking
Viator
10.0/10
(30 reviews)

Your cultural journey starts with a tuk-tuk and Tour Guide pickup from your hotel, followed by a visit to a local market in southern Siem Reap City. This is where locals shop for their daily essentials, offering you a chance to see vibrant food stalls, fresh ingredients, and Khmer culinary traditions up close. You'll also get to taste a variety of Desserts, Or Breakfast & Coffee just like the locals do! Next, we visit a Buddhist temple, where you will receive a blessing from a monk, a peaceful and meaningful experience that offers a deeper connection to Cambodia’s traditions. Afterward, we set off on a scenic countryside bike ride, passing through traditional Khmer villages. Along the way, you’ll meet villagers, learn about their way of life,. We conclude with a home-style local lunch, prepared with fresh ingredients and authentic Khmer flavors. After lunch, we take you back to your hotel, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Cambodia’s rich culture and warm hospitality.

From
€16
per person
View →
Ancient stone stupas rising above dense green trees under a clear sky
Editor's Pick
Water & Boat Tours
Viator
10.0/10
(23 reviews)

Cycle through the riverside of Tonle Sap Lake where you’ll encounter experience with beautiful farmlands, pretty floating villages, fishing community, paddy rice fields and beautiful countryside. Connect a local artisan when we visit the silver and bronze handicraft villages and have a chance to see any wetland birds such as Little-Egret, Black – winged Stilt, Black- shouldered kite, Large-Billed Crowed, Little-Cormorant, Kingfishers, Whiskered Tern etc. Visit Oudong Hill and learn about these former royal capitals of Cambodia from the 17th to the 19th centuries as long as see the largest Buddha status, royal stupas and get stunning view of Cambodia countryside. Enjoy with Khmer local food for our lunch and refreshing with a tropical fruit during we riding

From
€69
per person
View →
Couple standing by stone railing with Angkor Wat temple in the background at sunrise
Temple Tours
Viator
10.0/10
(30 reviews)

Witness the sunrise unlike any other at the beautiful Angkor Wat, one of the World’s largest religious monuments. Watch the sun rise over the triple towers of Angkor Wat and experience an unforgettable morning on the back of Vespa to the ruins of the Angkor Kingdom. With an informative local guide, you’ll explore iconic temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park. Walk around one of the world’s great monuments at its quietest and most inspiring temple. The rest of the day is spent on the scooter with our driver through the backroads and the jungle trails to ancient ruins, stopping at both iconic and lesser-known temples at Angkor archaeology park. History, religion, culture and of course, FOOD, we’ve got you covered on the tour.

From
€32
per person
View →
Evening Siem Reap Food Tour tour image
Food & Cooking
Tiqets
(3 reviews)

A huge part of any Cambodian adventure is the food. Follow your nose around the night markets of Siem Reap, and taste the very best snacks and dishes on this guided flavor frenzy. Try traditional foods like Cambodian BBQ and spring rolls, or, if you're feeling really adventurous, treat your taste buds to local delicacies like BBQ snails, tarantulas, and other insect dishes. This part's optional, of course! Full of delicious food, you'll end your tour with a nightcap at Sombai Siem Reap Liqueur House, where you’ll learn how Cambodian rice whiskey is made, infused, and consumed.

From
€38.58
per person
View →
Siem Reap Foodies Vespa Tour tour image
Food & Cooking
Tiqets
(3 reviews)

Siem Reap is a foodie's dream, with some of the weirdest and most wonderful dishes on the planet. The best way to sample it all is with a local guide, who knows the absolute tastiest places to chow on local cuisine. You'll even learn some secret spots that only the locals know about... till now. Hop on the back of a Vespa and be driven expertly through the backstreets at night, stopping at the best restaurants and food stalls in town. From the famed Khmer sandwiches to Cambodian bamboo sticky rice, shrimp cakes and snails, you can try it all. There's also the option of tasting eight original liqueurs at the Sambai Liqueur House.

From
€51.44
per person
View →
woman wearing helmet and sunglasses rides bicycle with pink basket on rural dirt path
Adventure & Outdoors
Viator
10.0/10
(30 reviews)

Itinerary Your journey begins with a hotel pickup by tuk-tuk, bringing you to our starting point just outside Siem Reap. After a short introduction, your guide will lead you on a scenic cycling route through charming villages, rice paddies, and small dirt roads, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of locals. We’ll make several stops along the way, including a visit to a Buddhist monastery, where you can witness monks' blessings and learn about Cambodian spiritual traditions. You'll also have the chance to taste authentic local food and desserts, trying flavors unique to the region. As we make our way back, we pause at a scenic sunset viewpoint, where you can relax and enjoy the stunning colors of the setting sun. The tour ends with a picnic-style gathering, where you can unwind with a refreshing cold drink, making for a perfect conclusion to this memorable countryside adventure.

From
€15
per person
View →

Where to Stay

Places to stay near Phnom Penh Riverfront

View all places to stay