Overcrowding Tourists at Angkor Wat

The large number of tourists visiting Angkor Wat has become a problem of overcrowding in the famous archaeological and historical heritage site in Siem Reap. Expert and conservationists and about 225 scientists attended the meeting on restoration and preservation of ancient Angkor sites, held in Siem Reap on June 4 and 5, 2008.

Despite the fact that authority put strong much effort on site management, the overcrowded tourist leads to serious problem and many major site are being damaged unintentionally. Tourists cannot be stopped, but the appropriate strategies should be taken in to the priority consideration in order to fix the problems that may seriously occur effectively and on time. Diversification of attraction for tourists to visit can be a strategic solution of the site. One of the organizers, UNESCO's Program Specialist Philippe Delanghe, said that the development of new attractions is a priority for managing tourist traffic.

However, development of new attractions must be in sustainable manner and not damaging, while maintain and contribute economical benefit to all stakeholders and have the same share goals and interests. By CHHEM Samnang