Category: Festivals & Celebrations

1. Origins and Scriptural Basis of Kathina The Kathina Ceremony (Pchum Kathen in Khmer) is a deeply revered Theravāda Buddhist tradition celebrated in Cambodia and other Southeast Asian countries. It marks the conclusion of the Vassa (rain retreat), a three-month...

1. A Historic Break from Colonial Rule Cambodia’s Independence Day marks the pivotal moment when the Kingdom of Cambodia gained full sovereignty from French colonial rule on November 9, 1953. After nearly 90 years under French protectorate status (1863–1953), this...

Introduction Among the spiritual hills of Mondulkiri and the sacred imaginations of the Cambodian people lives the legend of the white elephant—a creature both celestial and earthly, woven into mythology, monarchy, and modern conservation. The Festival of the White Elephant...

In the remote highlands of northeastern Cambodia, ancient traditions continue to thrive through powerful and sacred spirit festivals performed by ethnic minority groups such as the Kreung, Tampuan, and Jarai. Far from the Buddhist temples of the lowlands, these communities...

1. Origins and Meaning of Bon Phka Prak Bon Phka Prak (បុណ្យផ្កាប្រក់), known as the Lotus Flower Festival, is one of Cambodia’s lesser-known but deeply spiritual celebrations rooted in Buddhist devotion and rural community life. Taking place primarily in countryside...

An intimate journey into the sacred waters of Mondulkiri’s highland communities Nestled deep in the lush highlands of Mondulkiri Province, the Bunong people (also spelled Phnong) live in harmony with nature, sustaining traditions passed down for generations. Among their most...

While Khmer New Year is Cambodia’s most widely celebrated holiday, Lunar New Year, or Choul Chnam Chen in Khmer, holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for Cambodia’s vibrant Chinese and Sino-Khmer communities. Celebrated mostly in January or February, this festival...

Cambodia, a land steeped in ancient history and vibrant culture, celebrates the union of two souls through elaborate and deeply symbolic wedding ceremonies. These grand celebrations, often extending over several days, are a testament to the enduring traditions that continue...

Introduction Cambodia’s cultural calendar is rich with festivals, but two of the most spiritually profound are Meak Bochea and Visak Bochea. These Buddhist holidays, steeped in ancient traditions, offer Cambodians a time to reflect, purify, and recommit to the teachings...

An Ancient Khmer Ritual Connecting Kingship, Agriculture, and the Cosmos 1. Historical Origins of the Royal Ploughing Ceremony The Royal Ploughing Ceremony, known in Khmer as Preah Reach Pithi Chrot Preah Neangkol, is one of Cambodia’s oldest and most sacred...