Iruni Kalupahana JadeTimes Staff
I. Kalupahana is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Culture
A Rich History
Bon Om Touk, also known as the Cambodian Water Festival, traces its origins back to the 12th century during the reign of King Jayavarman VII, a powerful Angkorian ruler. During this time, the festival served not only as a celebration but also as a symbolic military ritual. The king’s naval fleet played a vital role in protecting Cambodia’s waters, and the boat races honored their contributions. Ancient carvings in the Bayon Temple and other Angkorian sites depict naval scenes, showing that boat races symbolized Cambodia’s strength and unity. Bon Om Touk also aligns with the end of the monsoon season, marking a time of abundance as the Tonle Sap River swells, providing vital resources for fishing and agriculture.
Celebrations Today
Today, Bon Om Touk has become a nationwide celebration, drawing millions of Cambodians to Phnom Penh. The capital city becomes a lively center of festivities, illuminated with colorful floats and decorated with vibrant banners. Streets are packed with vendors selling traditional foods, souvenirs, and local crafts, adding to the festive atmosphere. The event is held on the full moon of the Buddhist month of Kadeuk, believed to bring luck and a plentiful harvest. Tourists and locals alike are treated to a unique cultural experience with various performances, such as traditional Khmer dance and music, adding layers of cultural richness to the festival.
The Thrill of the Boat Races
The boat races are the festival’s main attraction, with over 400 longboats from different provinces competing along the Tonle Sap and Mekong rivers. Each boat can hold between 50 to 80 rowers, and they practice for weeks leading up to the event to perfect their technique and timing. The races commemorate not only past naval victories but also celebrate the unity of communities who support their local teams with spirited cheers. Families and friends gather on the riverbanks, picnicking and enjoying traditional treats like Ak Ambok, a festive rice snack mixed with coconut and banana. This communal experience is a highlight, with locals and visitors forming a vibrant crowd of enthusiastic spectators.
Traditional Festivities Across Cambodia
Bon Om Touk is celebrated throughout Cambodia, though the grandest events occur in major cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. In smaller villages, the festival is observed with intimate gatherings, where families prepare special feasts and children perform folk dances. Locals dress in traditional attire, adding to the cultural vibrance. Songs about Bon Om Touk, handed down through generations, are sung during the event, deepening the connection to the festival’s historic roots. Late night festivities often include fireworks, which light up the sky and bring a sense of wonder and joy to both young and old alike.
Moon Salutation and Offerings
The full moon plays an important role in Bon Om Touk’s festivities, with many people considering it a symbol of good fortune and a bountiful harvest. On the second night of the festival, Cambodians create altars in front of their homes, laden with offerings like coconuts, bananas, and special rice dishes to honor the moon. This ritual, known as Sampeah Preah Khae, includes prayers and blessings, with families hoping for prosperity and well being in the coming year. The moon salutation ceremony is one of the festival’s most spiritual aspects, connecting participants with their ancestors and the cycles of nature, making Bon Om Touk deeply significant in Cambodian culture.
Essential Tips for Visitors
November, the month of Bon Om Touk, is one of the best times to visit Cambodia, as the weather is cooler and the rivers are full. The crowds can be overwhelming, especially in Phnom Penh, where accommodations fill up quickly. Travelers are advised to book hotels in advance and choose riverside accommodations to get the best view of the boat races and nighttime illuminations. Since pickpockets can be an issue in crowded areas, it’s wise to secure valuables in a hotel safe and carry only essentials. Comfortable, modest clothing is recommended, as well as a shawl for visiting temples, which is customary in Cambodia. The Tonle Sap River’s natural flow reversal, a phenomenon unique to this season, also adds to the magic of experiencing Bon Om Touk firsthand.
