The Ministry of Tourism (MoT) yesterday reported that Cambodia welcomed 3.54 million tourists during the last two days of 2024. This figure included nearly 50,000 foreigners while citizens accounted for 3.49 million.
According to the Tourism Statistics Report from the Provincial Department of Tourism, the Kingdom received 216,331 local tourists and 18,249 foreigners on December 30.
On December 31, the number of local tourists surged to 3,271,734 while international tourists increased to 29,011 of the 3,300,745 tourists.
On these two special days, the number of Cambodian tourists reached 3,488,065 and foreigners increased to 47,260, bringing the total to 3,535,325 tourists, the statement added.
Among the top five potential destinations, Phnom Penh city ranked first on the list followed by Sihanoukville, Siem Reap, Battambang and Kampot provinces, respectively.
The capital Phnom Penh attracted approximately 1,555,059 local tourists, showcasing its popularity among domestic travellers. In addition, the city welcomed around 18,420 foreign tourists, highlighting its appeal to international visitors.
Speaking to Khmer Times, Chhay Sivlin, President of the Cambodia Tourism Association (CATA), attributed the increase in tourists during the New Year celebration in Phnom Penh to the ‘Celebrating Cambodia’ event, a cultural initiative highlighting the Kingdom’s rich heritage and unity.
“The event, organised by the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia (UYFC) and the Phnom Penh Capital Hall (PPCH), played a key role in drawing both local and international visitors, further enhancing the city’s appeal as a vibrant destination during the holiday season,” Sivlin said.
She emphasised that CATA members have been actively supporting the programme from the outset, particularly in marketing. “We’ve integrated the event with the CATA travel package, raising awareness among international tourists planning to visit Cambodia in advance,” the CATA President added.
Sihanoukville, a coastal town renowned for its beaches and vibrant tourism scene, attracted 415,886 local tourists. The coastal town welcomed around 6,943 foreign tourists which underscored its growing reputation among the international visitors.
With its unique blend of natural beauty and developing infrastructure, Sihanoukville remained a popular destination for both domestic and global travellers seeking relaxation and adventure.
Siem Reap, renowned for the Angkor Wat temple, attracted around 323,400 tourists, along with 10,260 foreign visitors. The rich heritage and UNESCO World Heritage sites make it a top destination, drawing both domestic and international travellers seeking to explore the Kingdom’s cultural and historical treasures.
Similarly, Battambang known for its charming rural landscapes, welcomed 324,053 local tourists for leisure. The town also attracted around 707 foreign visitors, showcasing its beauty as a tranquil destination for those looking to experience the countryside.
Kampot, famous for its scenic landscapes and relaxed atmosphere, attracted 226,758 local tourists and around 1,218 foreign visitors. Its unique blend of natural beauty and laid-back vibe makes it a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
