Phnom Penh: Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening tourism cooperation with India, emphasising the need for expanded air connectivity and more robust bilateral tourism engagement. Officials highlighted the potential benefits of direct flight links and collaborative promotion of travel between the two countries to boost visitor numbers and deepen people-to-people ties.
Representatives from Cambodia’s tourism authorities and the Honorary Consulate in Bengaluru discussed opportunities to enhance travel flows and cooperation frameworks that support easier access for Indian travellers to Cambodia’s cultural and heritage destinations. They noted that enhanced connectivity will help attract a broader range of visitors, including leisure tourists and pilgrims drawn by shared historical and cultural links.
Direct flight services between Phnom Penh and New Delhi — launched in June 2024 — have already begun serving as a cornerstone for deepening tourism ties, offering a convenient travel option that eliminates prior transit barriers. These flights, operated by Cambodia’s national carrier on weekly schedules, are seen as key drivers for increasing tourism traffic and making it easier for Indian visitors to experience Cambodia’s attractions, such as the Angkor Wat temple complex and coastal destinations.
Officials also highlighted how improved air links align with broader bilateral tourism strategies under the Cambodia–India Tourism Year 2024 initiative. This programme, co-organised by both nations’ tourism ministries, sought to reinforce cultural exchange and tourism promotion activities, with direct flights playing a central role in facilitating travel and engagement between government, business and tour operators.
The renewed focus on direct air links and tourism cooperation reflects shared interests in elevating travel experiences, increasing tourism revenues, and fostering sustainable growth in the travel sector. Cambodian tourism authorities noted that stronger ties with the Indian market could help position Cambodia as a compelling destination for Indian travellers, while also creating opportunities for tourism service providers and hospitality stakeholders in both countries.
As discussions continue, officials expect that expanded connectivity, joint marketing efforts and collaborative promotional campaigns will further enhance tourism flows and deepen economic and cultural links between Cambodia and India.
