Phnom Penh: The renowned Sambor Prei Kuk temple resort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracted a significant number of visitors in the first eight months of 2026. A total of 56,284 tourists explored the ancient complex, with international visitors accounting for 10,154 of that figure, underscoring the site’s growing appeal to a global audience.
These impressive statistics were officially released in the monthly report by the Sambor Prei Kuk National Authority on August 31, 2026. The report provides a detailed breakdown of visitor trends over the period.
Analyzing the monthly data, August 2026 saw 7,879 tourists visiting the temple area, of whom 843 were foreign nationals. When compared to the preceding month, July, which recorded 8,720 total visitors including 567 foreign tourists, a nuanced trend emerges. While the overall visitor count in August experienced a modest decrease of 841 individuals, or approximately 9.6 percent, the number of foreign tourists remarkably increased by 276 people, representing a substantial rise of about 48.7 percent. This indicates a robust and growing interest from international travelers, even as domestic visits might have seen a slight seasonal adjustment.
Sambor Prei Kuk stands as a pivotal cultural and historical landmark within Cambodia. It is strategically located in Sambo village, Sambo commune, Prasat Sambo district, in the heart of Kampong Thom province, approximately 37 kilometers from the provincial capital. Spread across an expansive 3,000 hectares of flat land, this ancient resort was meticulously constructed by King Isanvarman I during the mid-7th century, specifically between 615 and 650 AD, serving as a significant center during that era.
Beyond the acclaimed Sambor Prei Kuk temple, Kampong Thom province offers a rich tapestry of other potential tourist attractions. These include historical sites such as Kuk Nokor Temple and Phnom Santuk, alongside natural and recreational destinations like Stung Prey Pros, Boeung Samreth, Stung Chinit, Reaksmey, Phum Pi Kiri, Boeung Kranhok, O Mean Water Drainage Dam, Sampov Trai Lok, Tray Leak, Thnous Ta Prom, Kampong Kdei Bridge, the 1 Makara Drainage Dam, and the January 6 Drainage Dam. Among these diverse offerings, Sambor Prei Kuk Temple remains the province’s most celebrated and frequently visited destination. Complementing its profound historical and natural beauty, Kampong Thom is also renowned for its abundant and delicious local cuisine, promising visitors a complete and enriching cultural experience.
