Background
The Ministry of Tourism, together with the Kratie Provincial Administration, has organized a traditional blessing ceremony as part of the preparations for the 10th River Festival. The ceremony was conducted under the high presidency of Samdech Kittisangahapundit Men Sam An, Personal Advisor to His Majesty the King of Cambodia. The River Festival is described as an important national tourism event organized by the Royal Government of Cambodia to promote river-based tourism potential, conservation of natural and cultural resources, and local economic development.
The 10th edition of the River Festival will be hosted by Kratie Province from 27 to 29 March 2026 under the theme “Green River, Grand Cultural and Natural Heritage.” The festival is expected to attract significant numbers of domestic and international visitors to enjoy and learn about the natural beauty, culture, and livelihoods of communities along the Mekong River.
Scope of Application
The information applies to tourism stakeholders and relevant authorities involved in the planning and organization of the 10th River Festival in Kratie Province, including national and sub-national tourism bodies and local communities along the Mekong River. It is also relevant to potential domestic and international visitors interested in river-based tourism and cultural events in Kratie during 27–29 March 2026.
Key Provisions or Decisions
- The Ministry of Tourism and Kratie Provincial Administration jointly organized a traditional Khmer blessing ceremony on a sandbank at Koh Trong, in Koh Trong Sangkat, Kratie City, Kratie Province.
- The ceremony involved offerings of candles, incense, flowers and floating lanterns dedicated to the “Mother Mekong” to pray for peace, prosperity, and success of the upcoming 10th River Festival.
- The 10th River Festival will take place in Kratie Province from 27 to 29 March 2026 under the theme “Green River, Grand Cultural and Natural Heritage.”
- The River Festival is identified as an important tourism event of the Royal Government aimed at promoting the tourism potential of riverine provinces, conserving natural resources and national cultural traditions, and encouraging sustainable development in riverine areas.
- The festival is expected to attract many national and international tourists to Kratie to participate in leisure activities and to learn about the natural environment, culture, and livelihoods along the Mekong River.
Implications for Investors, Businesses, or Compliance
The announcement confirms Kratie Province as the host of the 10th River Festival and sets the official dates and theme, providing a planning horizon for tourism-related businesses, service providers, and local authorities. Enterprises in accommodation, transport, food and beverage, and tourism services in Kratie and surrounding areas may use this information to prepare for increased visitor flows during 27–29 March 2026.
The emphasis on promoting river-based tourism, conserving natural and cultural heritage, and supporting sustainable development along the Mekong suggests continued policy support for tourism initiatives that align with environmental protection and cultural preservation objectives in riverine provinces.
Official Source
The information is based on an announcement and description published by the Ministry of Tourism on its official Facebook page.
