Angkor Archaeological Park Sees Surge in Visitors Amid Tourism Campaign

Cambodia's Angkor Archaeological Park has witnessed a remarkable 41% year-on-year increase in foreign visitors in the first four months of 2024, with a total of 421,379 tourists exploring the ancient temples. This surge in visitors has resulted in a 42% boost in revenue from ticket sales, amounting to an impressive $19.9 million.

The significant increase in tourism at Angkor Archaeological Park has far-reaching implications for Cambodia's economy, as it is a major source of revenue and job creation. Additionally, the success of the tourism campaign could set a precedent for other cultural heritage sites in the region, promoting sustainable tourism practices and preserving historical landmarks for future generations.

The top source countries for international tourist arrivals to the Angkor park were the United States, United Kingdom, France, South Korea, and China. China, in particular, saw a significant 53% increase in visitors, with 28,172 Chinese tourists visiting the park compared to 18,437 the previous year.

The 401-square-km Angkor Archaeological Park, located in northwest Siem Reap province, is home to 91 ancient temples built between the 9th and 13th centuries. The park was inscribed on the World Heritage List of UNESCO in 1992 and stands as Cambodia's most popular tourist destination.

To revitalize the tourism industry, the Cambodian government has launched several initiatives, including the "Visit Siem Reap 2024" campaign, the 2024 Cambodia-China people-to-people exchange year, and the Cambodia-India tourism year. Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed confidence that these initiatives will attract more foreign tourists to Cambodia and the Angkor Archaeological Park, stating, "These initiatives will give a boost to the tourism sector, attracting more foreign tourists to Cambodia in general and to the Angkor Archaeological Park in particular."

Why this matters: The recently opened Chinese-invested Siem Reap Angkor International Airport is also expected to become a major draw for international tourists visiting the Angkor temples. The airport, which officially began operations in November 2023, boasts a 3,600-meter-long runway and currently holds the title of Cambodia's largest airport and main international gateway to the Angkor region.

The Angkor Archaeological Park's significant increase in foreign visitors and revenue in the first four months of 2024 highlights the success of Cambodia's tourism initiatives and infrastructure developments. With the "Visit Siem Reap 2024" campaign in full swing and the new Siem Reap Angkor International Airport facilitating increased tourist arrivals, Cambodia's tourism sector is poised for a strong recovery and growth in the coming years.

Key Takeaways

• Angkor Archaeological Park sees 41% increase in foreign visitors in 2024.
• Revenue from ticket sales boosts by 42% to $19.9 million.
• Top source countries: US, UK, France, South Korea, and China.
• China sees 53% increase in visitors, with 28,172 tourists.
• New airport and tourism initiatives drive growth in Cambodia's tourism sector.