Do you dream of embarking on a journey to a culturally-rich destination with unique festivals and the opportunity to discover new things? Imagine traveling to Cambodia during the Chol Chnam Thmay New Year season and joining the Khmer people in the festive, vibrant atmosphere permeating the streets.
This will undoubtedly be an adventure that provides you and your family with delightful and captivating experiences. Even better, you won’t have to worry about finding a money exchange in Cambodia, as this article provides you with all the essential information you need when traveling to this country during the festive season.
Chol Chnam Thmay Festival in 2023 is celebrated on which occasion?
“Chol Chnam Thmay” in Khmer means “New Year.” “Chol Chnam Thmay” in Khmer means “New Year.” According to the ancients’ conception, this is the time of harmony between heaven and earth and when trees sprout, marking the beginning of a new year. The new year is full of joy and happiness. The traditional Khmer New Year festival takes place from April 14 to 16 (according to the solar calendar). According to traditional customs and practices, the festival lasts 3–4 days; during this time, Khmer people organize many activities and celebrations.
Day One: Chol Sangkran Thmay Festival
On the first day of the Chol Chnam Thmay festival, also known as Maha Sangkran, people select auspicious hours and bring offerings such as incense, lamps, and fruits to the temple to participate in the Maha Sangkran procession. During this procession, the Khmer people dress in traditional clothing and carry a lacquer tray on a palanquin around the main hall three times solemnly, symbolizing the start of the festival and welcoming the Khmer New Year.
Second day: Wonbof – Ceremony of offering incense and building sand mountains
The second day of the Khmer New Year is called Wonbof, during which each Khmer family participates in a ceremony of offering rice to the monks at the temple. Afterward, they come together to build sand mountains, praying for favorable rain and for their wishes to come true in the new year.
The third day of the Khmer New Year: Lom-sak (Buddha Bathing Day)
The third day of the Khmer New Year is known as Lom-sak or Buddha Bathing Day. On this day, Khmer people typically light lamps, burn incense, and offer fragrant water to bathe Buddha statues to express their love, respect, and gratitude to the Buddha. This day is also necessary to wash away the old year’s bad luck and prepare to fill the new year with luck and prosperity.
Embark on a journey to the most stunning sights and engage in remarkable activities
If you visit Cambodia during the Tet – Chol Chnam Thmay holiday, you will be able to enjoy the festive atmosphere of numerous celebrations, witness the capital city of Phnom Penh, adorned with beautiful flower lights, and see the bright lights from the temples illuminating the roads leading to the Royal Palace.
Additionally, you can immerse yourself in the street festivities with the Khmer people, participating in activities like the water festival, playing with colored powder, or participating in traditional games such as burning sky lanterns and spinning fire. You can also enjoy Chol Chnam Thmay Festival with the captivating Apsara dance, a traditional Khmer art performance that is an integral part of the Tet celebrations.
Especially, you can also marvel at the skyscrapers while visiting the magnificent wonders of Angkor, the ancient citadel of Angkor Wat, or immerse yourself in the tranquil sunset atop Bakheng Hill.
Easy and secure Cambodian currency exchange for your trip – Chol Chnam Thmay Festival
When traveling to Cambodia during the Chol Chnam Thmay New Year season, choosing a reputable money changer with no service fees is crucial, especially with the many exciting deals available. Liberty Transfer & Exchange Currency is the best exchange rate provider in the Cambodian market and a reliable option for all travel enthusiasts. Here is a list of the best places to exchange currency in Cambodia:
- Moc Bai border gate: D117, Bavet Kandal, Bavet, Cambodia
- Opposite the airport: 1B Russian Federation Blvd (110), Phnom Penh
- Phnom Penh Center: 14 Samdech Hun Sen Street, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- Liberty’s head office in Phnom Penh: 8th floor, Block B, KINGS VIEW building, Keo Chenda Street, Phum 3, Sangkat Chhroy Chongva, Khan Chhroy Changva, Phnom Penh
- In Sihanouk: 2 Thnou Street, Preah Sihanouk, Cambodia
- India branch – 3rd floor, Oberon Mall, Road 34/195, NH Buy Pass Edappally, Ernakulam, Kerala 682024, India
See more: Liberty – The Best Currency Exchange Service in Cambodia
Moreover, how to exchange money online has never been easier thanks to the Liberty app, which allows you to exchange currency in Cambodia with a simple tap. With Liberty Transfer and Exchange Currency, all your concerns about foreign currency purchase and conversion in Cambodia will be resolved quickly and conveniently. Don’t hesitate to try the Liberty app now. If you have any inquiries about currency conversion services in Cambodia, feel free to contact us at (+855) 23 86 86 83 or (+855) 70 294 888, or Telegram:@libertycurrency for detailed assistance.
Liberty Transfer & Exchange Currency, a passionate and knowledgeable local, is delighted to share Cambodia’s wonders and guide you to discover all the unique and exciting things this country has to offer. By doing so, Liberty aims to provide even more service and value and enrich your travel experiences in Cambodia.
