By Phetsamone

(KPL)  It is estimated that the Angkor Sankranta Festival 2016, which took place from April 13-16, attracted over one million tourists this year for the celebration of the Khmer New Year in the Angkor area and the whole of Siem Reap City according to the Minister of Tourism of the Kingdom of Cambodia, Thong Khon.

The Angkor Sankranta Festival 2016, which was held for the fourth time this year, was organised by the Union of Youth Federation of Cambodia with the purpose uniting and building solidarity among Cambodian citizens during the traditional Khmer New Year celebration, Mr Thong stated during an interview on April 15.

The event also aims to promote the wonders and splendour of Cambodia to the world at large according to Mr Thong.

The Angkor Sankranta 2016 was organized in Siem Reap province by the Union of Youth Federation of Cambodia and over the past four years, has seen attendance jump from about 180,000 visitors in 2013, to 380,000 in 2014, to more than a million this year. 

“The event generated around US$30 million in revenue last year for the people of Siem Reap and that figure is expected to be around US$60 million this year,” said Mr Thong.

Angkor Sankranta 2016 was celebrated throughout the city including at Angkor Wat Temple, Beyon Temple, the Elephant Terrace, night markets, on Pub Street, and at the Angkor-Gyeongju Expo Square.

Angkor Sankranta 2016 featured several upgraded programs, activities, and performances when compared to previous years with the hopes of also increasing the joy among revelers.

Angkor Sankranta 2016 featured 22 main programs and spectacles including religious ceremonies, cultural performances, various fairs, and other unique activities and productions.

KPL