Fighting has erupted again between Thailand and Cambodia along their contested border, leaving scores dead and straining relations between the two countries, while causing a substantial diplomatic ruckus. US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Hong Kong has issued travel warning to Thailand and Cambodia. This latest round of fighting centered around ancient temples near the border has affected not only the armed forces of both nations, but civilians and tourists. Travellers with planned visits to these destinations are in a situation requiring immediate attention, as border conflicts escalate, border crossing is prohibited and safety issues are rising. The effects of the fighting are being felt in both countries, and visitors should be extremely careful before deciding on any travel to the affected regions.

The Conflict’s Escalation:

The fighting erupted in the early morning hours of Thursday, July 24, 2025, around the Ta Muen and Ta Moan Thom temples, historically claimed by both Thailand and Cambodia. These ancient Khmer temples have been the focal point of long-standing disputes, with both nations asserting sovereignty over the territory. As tensions soared, Thai soldiers reported being attacked first by Cambodian forces, following the spotting of a drone and armed soldiers approaching the Thai side.

In response, Thailand launched military action, including airstrikes from a Thai F-16 fighter jet. Cambodia, on the other hand, accused Thailand of violating its sovereignty and conducting illegal airstrikes in Cambodian territory. Both sides have now accused each other of escalating the violence, which has led to a substantial breakdown in diplomatic relations.

Civilian and Military Casualties Mount:

The violence has not been limited to members of the military. At least one Thai civilian was killed and a number of others, including a child, were wounded by artillery from Cambodian forces. The Thai government called on its citizens to flee Cambodia amid the growing threat to civilian safety. An official travel warning released by the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs requested individuals to reschedule any unnecessary travel.

The Thai Army also says seven of its soldiers have been injured in the fighting. Cambodia’s military, however, has responded with accusations against Thai forces of dropping bombs in Cambodian territory, which they say is a violation of the international laws and norms of the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Fighting Near Tourist Hotspots:

The military clashes are happening near two significant temples: the Ta Moan Thom and Ta Muen temples, which are part of the Preah Vihear temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These temples are major historical attractions, drawing thousands of tourists every year who come to explore Cambodia’s rich cultural history. However, the ongoing fighting has forced authorities to close these areas to visitors. Tourists who had planned to visit these iconic landmarks may find their travel plans disrupted.

As the fighting continues near these sites, it’s recommended that travelers avoid visiting the border regions and instead seek alternative destinations within Thailand and Cambodia that are farther from the conflict zones.

As of July 24, 2025, several countries have issued travel advisories or alerts concerning the escalating border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia. These advisories primarily focus on the disputed border regions near ancient temples such as Ta Moan Thom, Ta Muen Thom, and Preah Vihear.

Countries Issuing Travel Advisories:

1. United States: The U.S. Embassy in Thailand has issued a security alert advising U.S. citizens to exercise increased caution due to ongoing border clashes. The embassy recommends that travelers avoid the affected border areas and follow the instructions of local authorities.
2. United Kingdom: The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel advice, urging travelers to take extra care in border areas and follow local authorities’ instructions. The FCDO also notes the presence of unexploded landmines in the region.
3. Canada: The Government of Canada advises travelers to exercise a high degree of caution in Cambodia, particularly near the Thai-Cambodian border. The advisory highlights the ongoing border dispute and potential for sudden changes in border crossing status.
4. Australia: The Australian Government’s Smartraveller service recommends exercising normal safety precautions in Cambodia but notes the closure of all land border crossing points as of June 24, 2025, due to the border dispute.
5. Hong Kong: The Hong Kong Government’s Outbound Travel Alert System has issued an amber alert for Thailand and Cambodia, advising residents to monitor the situation and exercise caution when traveling to these countries.

Impact on Travel and Tourism:

The ongoing border issue has particularly hit travel and tourism sector in the two countries. Tourists in cities such as Bangkok, Siem Reap and Phnom Penh said they saw more security and minor disruptions to their schedules, but there was no impact on major tourist centres for now. That said, the border closures will likely present complications for travelers with planned excursions crossing the Thailand-Cambodia border. The fighting has led to the closing of all border checkpoints between the two countries, including major crossings in Thailand’s northeast. This presents a particular problem for travellers who had planned to visit places like Siem Reap, where the Angkor Wat temples are located, and Koh Chang in Thailand, which are near the border.

As this violence has spilled over into other areas, including Surin province in Thailand and Cambodia’s province of Oddar Meanchey, the risk of additional travel interruptions has risen. FURTHER FURTHER, should airstrikes happen, it can quickly develop into a regional conflict, disrupting air routes.

Travel Advisory for Tourists:

Given the escalating situation, the following travel advice has been issued for tourists planning to visit Thailand and Cambodia:

1. Avoid Border Regions:
   Tourists should avoid visiting the border areas near Surin in Thailand and Oddar Meanchey in Cambodia. The situation remains fluid, and travel to these regions could be dangerous.
2. Stay Updated on Travel Alerts:
   Both the Thai and Cambodian governments have issued travel advisories. Check regularly for updates on border closures, flight cancellations, and travel restrictions. It is also essential to monitor the situation via official embassy websites and trusted news sources.
3. Alternative Travel Routes:
   For tourists who had planned to cross the border, consider alternative routes to travel between Thailand and Cambodia, such as flying into major cities like Phnom Penh or Bangkok, instead of overland travel.
4. Flight Cancellations and Disruptions:
   Major airlines are likely to alter their flight schedules as the situation develops. Travelers should contact their airlines to confirm flight details and reschedule if necessary.
5. Safety Precautions:
   Always have a contingency plan in case of sudden changes. If you are already in Thailand or Cambodia, stay informed, avoid conflict zones, and follow local authorities’ guidance regarding evacuation routes and safety measures.

Conclusion:

As the tension at the Thailand-Cambodia border escalates, it’s becoming clear what the implications are for tourists. As casualties rise and the diplomatic crisis deepens, travelers need to focus on safety and avoid areas directly impacted by rioting. That noted, some tourist hot spots are still open, but things are evolving and travelers need to be prepared to be both flexible and vigilant.

Those already in the area should keep abreast of the local security situation and avoid border areas. It can’t be stressed enough that this is a long distance and everyone should be looking at different routes and keep aware of how biggest changes on the ground. However despite the fighting, there is plenty more to see and do in both Thailand, and Cambodia than near the disputed territory, and both have a rich history and culture.

This has hurt tourism, an important source of exchange for both countries and the tension continues. For now, travelers are encouraged to be cautious, informed and to have a plan in place that allows them to make alternate plans if needed.