Our Bureau
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Cambodia is gearing up for a significant surge in Indian tourist arrivals, anticipating 3-4 times increase in 2024. This ambitious projection comes on the heels of a robust recovery in the Indian tourism sector and a successful promotional campaign aimed at attracting travelers from India.
In 2023, Cambodia welcomed approximately 68,836 Indian visitors, which was over 91% of pre-pandemic levels recorded in 2019. The first half of 2024 has already shown promising growth, with around 32,000 to 33,000 Indian tourists visiting Cambodia, marking a 17% increase compared to the same period last year.
To capitalize on this momentum, Cambodia has launched the “1st Cambodia and India Tourism Year 2024” initiative, which aims to strengthen tourism cooperation between the two countries. The campaign is part of a broader strategy that includes digital marketing efforts and collaborations with travel influencers to showcase Cambodia’s diverse attractions, from its rich cultural heritage to its vibrant natural landscapes.
Connectivity is also set to improve, with four direct flights currently linking India and Cambodia. IndiGo Airlines is expected to introduce an additional flight in November, enhancing access and convenience for Indian travelers. Furthermore, Cambodia offers visa-on-arrival facilities for Indians, along with options for e-visas, making it easier for tourists to plan their trips.
The Cambodian tourism sector primarily attracts leisure and religious visitors, but there are efforts to diversify the market by promoting business events and weddings. Officials are keen to highlight Cambodia’s capabilities in hosting large-scale events, which could further boost visitor numbers from India.
With these initiatives and improvements in travel infrastructure, Cambodia is well-positioned to attract a new wave of Indian tourists in 2024, potentially transforming the landscape of its tourism industry.
