Visitors to Cambodia's famed Angkor temple complex will have to pay almost twice as much for admission starting next February, the government said today.
A government statement said the price of single-day tickets will rise from USD 20 currently to USD 37. A three-day pass will cost USD 62, up from USD 40. The price of a 7-day ticket, valid over a one-month period, will go up from USD 60 to USD 72.
No explanation was given for the increase. The government said USD 2 from each ticket sold will be donated to a Swiss-owned children's hospital, Kantha Bopha, which provides free treatment.
Last year, about 2.1 million tourists visited Angkor Wat, the spiritual center of the Khmer empire that dominated the region from the 9th century until its collapse in the 15th century.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Angkor is a symbol of national pride that is emblazoned on the Cambodian flag.
Last month, Apsara Authority, which oversees the archaeological complex, said that beginning this month local and foreign tourists who dress immodestly will not be allowed to enter.
