Angkor Enterprise, the official body for managing ticket sales to international visitors at Cambodia’s historic sites, has reported a substantial revenue increase in the first two months of 2024. The organization collected over $11 million from ticket sales at the Angkor Archaeological Park, witnessing a growth of more than 50% compared to the same timeframe in 2023.
From January to February 2024, the park welcomed 235,850 international guests, reflecting a growth of 50.27% from the previous year, which translated into earnings of $11.23 million, up by 52.09%. Additionally, Angkor Enterprise, which also oversees ticket sales for Chong Khneas floating village in Siem Reap province and the Koh Ker temple complex in Preah Vihear province, garnered $206,298 from boat ticket sales at the floating village and $86,940 from Koh Ker temple visits.
The resurgence in tourist numbers, particularly at the archaeological park, has been noted by Khieu Thy, president of the Khmer Angkor Tourist Guide Association. He attributes this recovery to diminishing Covid-19 concerns, better global economic conditions, and the country’s enhanced infrastructure, including improved roads, airports, and ports. Thy expressed optimism about the potential for further growth in foreign tourist arrivals, contingent upon stable global and local conditions.
He emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to boost the tourism sector’s appeal, including better environmental management, service improvements, the introduction of new tourism offerings, and adherence to ethical standards and laws.
Anheng Sokpheak, head of the Cambodia Chinese Tour Guide Association, observed a steady increase in international visitors, albeit not as sharp as desired. He highlighted a diversification in the visitor demographic, with a more balanced mix of tourists from neighboring countries and Europe, in contrast to the previous dominance of Chinese visitors.
In 2023, Angkor park recorded 798,069 international ticket purchases, marking a 177.63% increase from 2022, with total ticket sales revenue reaching nearly $37.2 million, a 222.68% increase. The Koh Ker temple complex and Chong Kneas floating village also saw significant visitor numbers and revenue.
In comparison, 2019 saw the highest influx of over 6.6 million international tourists, generating over $80.7 million for Angkor Enterprise. The entire country welcomed 5.45 million international tourists in 2023, a 139.5% increase from the previous year, generating approximately $3.04 billion in foreign tourism revenue, a significant rise from $1.41 billion in 2022.
Angkor Enterprise, operating under the supervision of the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Economy and Finance, offers three-tiered ticket pricing for the Angkor park: one-day tickets at $37, three-day tickets at $62, and seven-day tickets at $72, contributing to Cambodia’s growing tourism sector.
Source: Phnompenh Post
