I notice that the KNY is celebrated at about the same time as Easter celebrations in the '' other '' countries. Since when have Khmer's been celebrated KNY and what historical event made them choose these dates, or was it adopted from other countries.

Duncan wrote:I notice that the KNY is celebrated at about the same time as Easter celebrations in the '' other '' countries. Since when have Khmer's been celebrated KNY and what historical event made them choose these dates, or was it adopted from other countries.

Cambodian New Year (Khmer: បុណ្យចូលឆ្នាំថ្មី) or Chaul Chnam Thmey in the Khmer language, literally "Enter New Year", is the name of the Cambodian holiday that celebrates the New Year. The holiday lasts for three days beginning on New Year's Day, which usually falls on April 13 or 14th, which is the end of the harvesting season, when farmers enjoy the fruits of their labor before the rainy season begins. Khmers living abroad may choose to celebrate during a weekend rather than just specifically April 13 through 15th. The Khmer New Year coincides with the traditional solar new year in several parts of India and srilanka like Puthandu, Myanmar, Thailand and Sri Lanka.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cambodian_New_Year

According to some Khmer records in the past Cambodian people and the kings celebrated new year on the first day of Migase month(January), but later changed to celebrate in April. They change the date because of the rice harvesting season.
http://sophanse.blogspot.com/2006/04/ca ... story.html