As the festive season of Pchum Ben approaches, the northeastern region of Cambodia is gearing up to welcome a surge of tourists eager to explore its stunning natural beauty and cultural heritage. Nestled amidst lush green landscapes, the region is a popular eco-tourism destination, drawing visitors from far and wide.
Mondulkiri Province: An Eco-Tourism Gem
Ngin Sovimean, the Deputy Governor of Mondulkiri, expressed his excitement about the forthcoming Pchum Ben festival, which is expected to attract a significant number of tourists to the province. Known for its abundant mountains and waterfalls, Mondulkiri has carved a niche for itself as an essential eco-tourism destination.
Mr. Sovimean hopes that at least 8,000 tourists will grace the province during the three-day festival. To make the experience enjoyable for all, the city has been beautifully decorated, and measures have been put in place to ensure security and order. Tour operators have been urged not to engage in unfair price hikes, keeping the experience affordable for all visitors.
Among the natural attractions in Mondulkiri, the Bousra Waterfall and the Phnom Nam Lear Sanctuary stand out as favorites among tourists. These picturesque sites offer breathtaking views and an immersive experience in the lap of nature.
Stung Treng Province: A Historical and Natural Marvel
Stung Treng Province, another gem in northeastern Cambodia, is also preparing to host an influx of tourists during Pchum Ben. Mean Sok Koeun, the Deputy Director of the Stung Treng Provincial Department of Tourism, is optimistic about the increase in tourist traffic. He highlights several eco-tourism areas that are expected to draw visitors, including the O’Russey Kandal community, the Preah Rumkel Community Based Ecotourism Food Store, and the O’Svay Community Based Eco-tourism site, all of which offer unique experiences along the picturesque Mekong River.
Mr. Koeun also points to the rich historical heritage of the region, with ancient pagodas like Wat Srah Keo Monivann and Wat Preah Ang Thom attracting those interested in Cambodia’s cultural and historical legacy.
In preparation for the festival, security and safety measures have been reinforced, and the quality of tourist services at local resorts has been improved.
Ministry of Tourism’s Guidelines
In a bid to enhance the overall tourist experience during Pchum Ben, the Ministry of Tourism issued instructions to relevant authorities on September 6. These instructions emphasize the need for improvements in the quality of tourist venues, services, and products. Vendors and tour operators have been urged to maintain clean environments, and detailed information regarding accommodation, food, and other services must be prominently displayed in advance to ensure transparency and fair pricing.
Businesses failing to adhere to these guidelines will be held accountable before the law, ensuring that visitors are treated fairly and can enjoy their experience without any unpleasant surprises.
With the Pchum Ben festival just around the corner, the northeastern provinces of Cambodia are poised to offer tourists a memorable blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Visitors can look forward to exploring pristine landscapes, ancient pagodas, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere as they celebrate this important Cambodian festival.
Source: Khmer Times
