Kleng Ek, Cambodias kite festival is held annually around December, the coolest and windiest month. Kite flying in the Kingdom has its place in Khmer folklore. Historically it is said that a Khmer was imprisoned by a Chinese King. He then created and flew a kite that made an eerie sound. This frightened the King and led to the prisoners release, hence the Khmer believe kite’s are a symbol of freedom.
Traditionally, kite flying was during harvest season. During this period kites were flown to honour spirits of ancestors and to bring good harvests.
Kleng Ek is a traditional Khmer kite. They have a musical bow at the head, which makes a sound. The annual festival has a competitive element. Kites are judges by both their sound and flight.
In 2024, the festival was held at the old Siem Reap airport. It was attended by thousands of visitors and 500 competitors. Future events usually fall in December and are hosted in a different province each year. If you are heading to Cambodia during this period, look out for the kite flying festival dates and location in the local press.
Heading to Cambodia! Check out our photography tours on the main page.
Heading to Angkor Wat? Why not consider a few days in Battambang? The 7 million bats on their out flight at dusk is worth the journey alone!