In brief
Hundreds of locals gathered at Takeo Lake for a two‑day dragon‑boat festival tied to Cambodia’s Water Festival. The event marked a revival of an 11th‑century naval tradition, boosted provincial tourism, and drew enthusiastic crowds and athletes.
Under sun‑bleached skies in southern Cambodia, 36 dragon boats roared across Takeo Lake this weekend, turning the two‑day Water Festival into a spectacle that revived an 11th‑century Khmer naval tradition.
Spectators lined the shore of Daun Keo city’s lake, cheering as each boat surged toward the finish. 22‑year‑old Huch Sreynea told Xinhua that the races felt like an electric bridge across centuries, adding the regatta honored Cambodia’s ancient naval forces.
"I felt thrilled to see the vibrant boat races," said Huch Sreynea. "This regatta was held to honor Cambodia's naval forces of ancient times."
20‑year‑old university student Chhin Lida noted the festival’s dual role, saying it not only keeps ancient legacies alive but also serves as a powerful magnet for tourists. She added that the event helps boost the provincial economy by attracting more visitors.
"This event also helps boost the provincial economy by attracting more tourists," said Chhin Lida.
For his first competition in Takeo province, 37‑year‑old racer Ly Sophal proudly led a crew of 12. He called the regatta “an age‑old tradition deep within the heart of the Cambodian people” and stressed its appeal to both national and international visitors.
"The regatta is an age‑old tradition deep within the heart of the Cambodian people and a prime occasion to attract both national and international tourists to Takeo," said Ly Sophal.
The Water Festival itself marks the end of Cambodia’s rainy season and the rare reversal of the Tonle Sap River’s flow, which connects Tonle Sap Lake to the Mekong River. The festival’s vibrant displays—from food stalls and “One Village, One Product” showcases to traditional arts and night‑time fireworks—reflect its role as a deep breath of gratitude to ancestors and the land’s sustaining waters.