Mondulkiri, Cambodia — September 23, 2026 — Cambodia’s northeastern province of Mondulkiri welcomed 297,042 domestic and international visitors during the first six months of 2026, marking a 1.56% increase from 292,458 visitors recorded during the same period last year, according to official provincial data.
Domestic tourism remained the main driver, with 290,846 Cambodian visitors, up 1.35% year on year. International arrivals increased more rapidly, rising 12.83% to 6,196 visitors.
The figures were included in the Mondulkiri Provincial Administration’s mid-year performance review covering January through June.
International Visitors Grow Faster
While domestic visitors accounted for the overwhelming majority of arrivals, the increase in international tourism was significantly higher in percentage terms.
| Visitor Category | Jan-Jun 2025 | Jan-Jun 2026 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Domestic | Approx. 286,972 | 290,846 | +1.35% |
| International | Approx. 5,486 | 6,196 | +12.83% |
| Total | 292,458 | 297,042 | +1.56% |
The figures indicate continued visitor growth, although international tourists represented only a small share of Mondulkiri’s overall tourism volume during the period.
Mondulkiri Has 106 Recognised Tourist Sites
The province currently has 106 recognised tourist sites, according to the mid-year report.
These include:
- 98 natural tourism destinations
- Five cultural sites
- Three artificial resorts
- Five wildlife sanctuaries
Mondulkiri is known for its forest landscapes, waterfalls and nature-based tourism attractions, with Bousra Waterfall among its popular destinations.
The large number of natural sites gives the province a strong foundation for nature and eco-tourism activities.
Hospitality Capacity Continues to Expand
Tourism infrastructure has also grown alongside visitor demand.
Mondulkiri currently has:
| Tourism Infrastructure | Number | Rooms |
|---|---|---|
| Hotels and resorts | 244 | 5,996 |
| Guesthouses and bungalows | 87 | 1,592 |
| Total accommodation establishments | 331 | 7,588 |
The local tourism sector currently employs 1,176 workers.
The growth in accommodation capacity provides additional options for visitors while supporting employment connected to tourism and hospitality.
Gold Mining Remains an Important Economic Activity
Tourism is only one component of Mondulkiri’s provincial economy.
The mid-year report said 18 companies currently hold 32 licences covering commercial mining operations, geological studies and exploration.
Commercial gold production remains concentrated in the O'kvav area, where Australian company Renaissance Minerals (Cambodia) Limited has produced more than 18 tonnes of gold since operations began in 2021, according to the provincial report.
This mining activity forms part of the province’s broader economic landscape alongside tourism, agriculture and other local economic activities.
Provincial Administration Handles Community Issues
The January-June review also covered administrative and community-related activities.
Provincial field teams organised 10 events for national holidays and facilitated sponsor assistance for local communities on 73 occasions.
Authorities also organised 19 community forums to address public concerns and grievances.
During the six-month period, residents submitted 171 complaints and requests, of which 52% were resolved, according to the report.
The forums provide a mechanism for authorities to receive concerns directly from communities and respond to local administrative issues.
Border Security Along 300-Kilometre Frontier
The provincial administration also reported on security arrangements along Mondulkiri’s approximately 300-kilometre border with Vietnam.
The province shares its border with Vietnam’s Dak Lak and Lam Dong provinces and Dong Nai city.
Joint military and police patrols cover 25 marker locations containing 48 physical border markers.
The report said patrols operate under bilateral agreements requiring formal notification before repairs are made to border posts.
Key Facts
| Indicator | Jan-Jun 2026 |
|---|---|
| Total visitors | 297,042 |
| Year-on-year growth | 1.56% |
| Domestic visitors | 290,846 |
| Domestic growth | 1.35% |
| International visitors | 6,196 |
| International growth | 12.83% |
| Recognised tourist sites | 106 |
| Hotels and resorts | 244 |
| Hotel/resort rooms | 5,996 |
| Guesthouses and bungalows | 87 |
| Guesthouse/bungalow rooms | 1,592 |
| Tourism workers | 1,176 |
| Commercial mining companies | 18 |
| Mining licences | 32 |
| Reported gold production since 2021 | More than 18 tonnes |
| Shared border with Vietnam | Approx. 300 km |
Angkor Times Analysis
Mondulkiri’s first-half tourism figures show modest overall growth, with domestic travellers continuing to account for almost all visitors. The stronger percentage increase in international arrivals is notable, but the absolute number remains relatively small compared with domestic tourism.
The province’s tourism model is closely tied to its natural environment. With 98 of its 106 recognised tourism sites classified as natural destinations, maintaining environmental quality and responsible tourism practices will be important as visitor numbers increase.
The province also has a substantial accommodation base, with 7,588 rooms across hotels, resorts, guesthouses and bungalows. This suggests that the tourism sector has infrastructure capable of supporting a considerably larger visitor base, although the source does not provide occupancy rates or detailed information on how accommodation demand is distributed.
Mondulkiri’s broader economic picture is similarly diverse. Tourism operates alongside commercial mining and local administrative development. The combination means that the province’s future growth will involve balancing economic activity with the protection of its natural and cultural assets.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many tourists visited Mondulkiri in the first half of 2026?
Mondulkiri recorded 297,042 domestic and international visitors between January and June 2026.
How much did tourism increase?
Total visitor numbers increased 1.56% compared with the same period in 2025.
How many international tourists visited?
The province recorded 6,196 international visitors, an increase of 12.83% year on year.
How many tourist sites does Mondulkiri have?
The provincial report lists 106 recognised tourist sites, including 98 natural destinations, five cultural sites, three artificial resorts and five wildlife sanctuaries.
How many hotels and resorts are in Mondulkiri?
The province has 244 hotels and resorts with 5,996 rooms, alongside 87 guesthouses and bungalows with 1,592 rooms.
How many people work in tourism?
The local tourism sector currently employs 1,176 workers, according to the provincial report.
Is mining also important to Mondulkiri?
Yes. The report states that 18 companies hold 32 commercial mining, geological study and exploration licences. Commercial gold production is concentrated in the O'kvav area.