Discover Cambodia’s Film Tourism: A Journey Through Cinema and Culture
Cambodia has long been a treasure trove for filmmakers seeking dramatic, mystical landscapes, and ancient temples as their backdrop. From the mesmerizing roots of Ta Prohm Temple immortalized in Lara Croft: Tomb Raider to the bustling streets of Phnom Penh captured in other productions, Cambodia’s allure as a film destination is now being embraced in a new, ambitious initiative. Prime Minister Hun Manet recently announced an exciting plan to attract more international film crews to the Kingdom, with the goal of promoting “film tourism” – a fusion of travel and cinema that has the potential to boost both industries.
During a visit to Siem Reap province, home to the iconic Angkor Wat complex, Manet shared his vision with local tour guides. He emphasized that the government plans to offer special packages for film crews, making Cambodia an even more enticing destination for future productions. The idea is simple: offer discounted or package-priced tickets for film crews visiting selected sites, such as the Angkor Archaeological Park. These packages would not only encourage longer stays but also promote Cambodia as a prominent location for film shoots globally.
This approach is not without precedent. One of the most successful examples of Cambodia on the silver screen was Angelina Jolie’s Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001). The film, which showcased Cambodia’s Ta Prohm Temple, played a significant role in putting the country back on the global tourism map after years of being relatively unknown to many travelers. Jolie’s portrayal of Lara Croft didn’t just spark interest in the ancient ruins – it also ignited a curiosity about Cambodia’s rich history and vibrant culture. According to tour guides in Siem Reap, many visitors cite Tomb Raider as their first exposure to Cambodia, proving that films can be a powerful driver for tourism.
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Beyond Tomb Raider, Cambodia has been a filming location for a number of productions, each one contributing to the Kingdom’s cinematic legacy. The movie First They Killed My Father, also directed by Angelina Jolie, delved into Cambodia’s harrowing history under the Khmer Rouge and brought the country’s past into the international spotlight. These films not only showcased Cambodia’s natural beauty and historic sites but also provided employment and development opportunities for local communities.
Manet’s plan to attract more film crews aims to build on this legacy. By offering attractive packages, Cambodia could soon become a hotspot for productions that range from Hollywood blockbusters to independent films, all of which will boost the local economy, create jobs, and offer new opportunities for international exposure. Visitors will not only be able to explore the real-life locations featured in their favorite movies, but they’ll also experience firsthand the magic of Cambodia’s timeless temples, lush landscapes, and bustling cityscapes.
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For cinephiles and travelers alike, film tourism offers an exciting new way to experience Cambodia. Tourists can now visit iconic filming locations such as the Ta Prohm Temple, where Tomb Raider was filmed, and imagine Angelina Jolie as Lara Croft navigating the atmospheric ruins. They can also explore lesser-known gems like the Bokor Mountain in Kampot, which has appeared in a number of Cambodian and international films, offering sweeping views and a touch of eerie, misty ambiance that filmmakers love.
As Cambodia recovers from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, initiatives like this are part of a larger effort to restore the tourism sector. Manet also highlighted other recent developments, including the introduction of the e-Arrival card system, streamlined ticket purchasing processes at Angkor Wat, and efforts to promote Cambodia through high-profile events like the Gumball 3000. These changes signal a new era for Cambodian tourism, one that is modern, dynamic, and increasingly connected to global cultural trends.
For those planning to visit, the Angkor Archaeological Park remains a must-see destination. Ticket prices are divided into three categories: $37 for a one-day pass, $62 for a three-day pass, and $72 for a seven-day pass. Nearly 700,000 foreign guests have already visited the park this year, generating over $32 million in revenue. With the new film tourism packages, the numbers are expected to rise even further, drawing not just history buffs and adventure seekers, but also movie fans eager to walk in the footsteps of their favorite film stars.
Whether you’re a traveler with a passion for cinema or simply someone looking to explore a country rich in history and culture, Cambodia’s film tourism packages offer a unique way to experience the Kingdom. From wandering through the mystical temples of Angkor to discovering the vibrant streets of Phnom Penh, visitors will not only see where the movies were made – they’ll also become part of Cambodia’s next cinematic chapter.
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Author: Tom Starkey
Tom Starkey is an International Development graduate from Sussex University with 12-years of experience across 4 continents, Tom's goal is that he wants to showcase his love for Cambodia, where he lives, works and now happily calls home.
