Phnom Penh, April 15 -- The New Year angel-welcoming ceremony, a highlight of Nokor Sangkranta 2026, was held at Wat Phnom in Phnom Penh on April 14, marking the start of celebrations for Cambodia's Choul Chnam Thmey traditional New Year.

The ceremony was conducted in a religious manner, with the participation of senior officials, large numbers of local residents and international visitors. It officially kicks off a series of traditional New Year activities, combining religious rituals at pagodas with vibrant Sangkranta festival's programmes held across the country.

As is customary during Chol Chnam Thmey, many Phnom Penh residents travel back to their hometowns to celebrate with family. However, some choose to remain in the capital to ...