Cambodia’s tourism is undergoing a strong revival as the country boosts its international presence, improves infrastructure, and invests in sustainability. Known for its rich history and iconic landmarks like Angkor Wat, the country is reshaping its tourism sector to attract more visitors and ensure long-term growth. With new strategies and global outreach, Cambodia is signaling that it is ready to reclaim its spot as one of Southeast Asia’s top travel destinations.
At the center of this push is the Ministry of Tourism, led by Minister Huot Hak. Under his leadership, Cambodia has taken part in several major international events, including the Seoul International Travel Fair. These events have allowed Cambodia to promote its travel offerings to new and returning markets, such as South Korea, China, Japan, and Europe. Minister Huot Hak has emphasized the importance of diversifying tourism and correcting outdated views about Cambodia. A key campaign called “Visiting Cambodia in Green Season” encourages travel during the rainy season, from May to October. The campaign aims to show that Cambodia is not just a dry-season destination. With cooler temperatures, vibrant landscapes, and lower prices, the green season offers unique experiences that many tourists overlook.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Cambodia welcomed over 6.6 million international visitors each year. South Korea alone accounted for more than 250,000 arrivals annually. However, the pandemic caused a sharp drop in tourism. Today, Cambodian officials believe these numbers can bounce back. They are working to restore strong ties with countries like South Korea by expanding flight options, offering new tour packages, and using digital platforms to reach more travelers.
Tourism in Cambodia is centered around world-renowned destinations such as Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and Sihanoukville. Angkor Wat remains the most visited site and is a powerful symbol of Cambodian heritage. The city of Siem Reap serves as a tourism hub with a mix of ancient history and modern amenities. Phnom Penh offers cultural and political history through attractions like the Royal Palace and National Museum. Sihanoukville, once a quiet beach town, is being developed with a focus on attracting investors and international travelers to its coastline.
Alongside these popular spots, Cambodia is also promoting lesser-known destinations such as Kampot, Kep, Ratanakiri, and Mondulkiri. These areas offer eco-tourism experiences, mountain retreats, and wildlife adventures. By directing visitors to these places, the government hopes to reduce pressure on major sites and spread economic benefits to rural communities.
Infrastructure development is a big part of the country’s tourism growth plan. Cambodia is working on upgrading airports, improving roads, and expanding hotel capacity. A new international airport is being built near Angkor to ease travel for visitors to Siem Reap. These improvements will make travel within the country faster and more comfortable, especially for international guests arriving through Phnom Penh or Sihanoukville.
Sustainability is another core focus of Cambodia’s tourism strategy. The government is encouraging eco-resorts and green investment. Community-based tourism is being promoted to help local people benefit directly from tourist spending. Areas like the Cardamom Mountains and Tonlé Sap Lake are being protected and developed as nature-based attractions. The goal is to grow the industry while preserving the environment and cultural heritage.
Cambodia is also investing in education and training programs for young people who want to work in hospitality and tourism. More digital tools are being introduced to help tourists plan their trips, book tours, and discover lesser-known experiences. Technology partnerships with foreign companies are being explored to improve services such as online bookings, digital marketing, and smart tourism platforms.
The Cambodian Embassy in Seoul, along with other embassies worldwide, has been actively supporting the tourism ministry’s outreach. These embassies help organize booths at travel fairs, connect officials with potential investors, and promote Cambodia as a safe and welcoming destination. The country’s long-running slogan, “Cambodia: Kingdom of Wonder,” continues to guide its branding, but new messages and strategies are being added to meet the needs of today’s travelers.
As 2025 progresses, Cambodia’s tourism sector remains a top national priority. Through innovation, global partnerships, and a focus on responsible development, the country is positioning itself for a strong and lasting comeback on the world tourism stage.
