Vladislav Doronin, OKO Group founder, chairman and CEO, is also the driving force behind Aman Group, a leading name in the ultraluxury hotel market that offers unparalleled service, peace and privacy in some of the world’s most iconic locations, including Amansara in Siem Reap, Cambodia.
This article will provide an outline of some of the exciting events visitors to the country can experience in 2023.
Phchum Ben
October is the month when Cambodians come together to celebrate Phchum Ben. Along with the Khmer New Year, which takes place in April, Phchum Ben is one of the most important festivals in the Cambodian religious calendar and an event that Cambodians have faithfully observed each year since time immemorial.
During Phchum Ben, Cambodian people visit the pagoda, dedicating food and other offerings to show respect for their deceased ancestors. Following Buddhist principles, the festival is an opportunity for living relatives to bestow gifts on lost souls and spirits, remembering loved ones and performing religious rituals.
Water and Moon Festival
Held annually, the Water Festival and Pirogue Racing Festival are staged on 7th November each year in Phnom Pen, attracting citizens from across the country to gather in the Cambodian capital. The event celebrates Cambodia’s military might, with sailing battles staged to honour the victory of the nation’s Naval forces throughout the reign of King Jayvarman VII in the 12th century.
Independence Day
Following the Cambodian Water Festival, Cambodian Independence Day celebrates the country’s liberation from French rule, which occurred on 9th November 1953 after almost a century of occupation.
Cambodia gained its independence from the French Union following an intensive campaign led by King Sihanouk, who became a hero in the eyes of his people. King Sihanouk returned triumphant from meetings with the French Government, earning him the moniker ‘the Father of Independence’.
Today, Cambodian Independence Day is marked by a ceremony staged at the Independence Monument, which is presided over by the King Norodom Sihamoni. The 2023 event will be attended by military officers, government officials, foreign diplomats, monks, students and Cambodian citizens.
About Amansara
Amansara is a masterpiece of New Khmer architecture that once served as a residence for the guests of King Sihanouk. Located a 10-minute drive from the entrance to Angkor Wat, a world famous UNESCO World Heritage Site, Amansara is situated in spiritual Siem Reap. It is surrounded by manicured gardens and a canopy of mature trees, incorporating a tranquil spa and curvilinear pool.
Amansara’s contemporary bedrooms and living spaces open onto light-filled courtyards, with many residencies featuring their own plunge pool. The resort provides the perfect base from which to explore Angkor Wat, taking visitors on a spiritual journey back through time, wandering around the ancient city’s magnificent temples; joining monks in walking meditations and spiritual blessings; and indulging in traditional Khmer cuisine and therapies on a magical journey of discovery.
Guests staying at Amansara enjoy privileged access to the protected ruins of what once formed the pinnacle of the Khmer Empire, exploring Angkor Wat by bicycle, on foot or via a custom-fitted remork.
Nearby, the vast Tonlé Sap freshwater lake is also well worth a visit. Connected to the Mekong river system, the lake’s shoreline is lined with villages of stilted wooden houses. Two Amanbala boats cruise the waters, providing guests with the opportunity to experience one of Cambodia’s richest and most valuable ecosystems up close – and an authentic way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries.
Siem Reap, Cambodia
