When people think of the ancient Khmer civilization, their minds often go straight to the towering spires of Angkor Wat, the grandeur of royal courts, or the brilliance of classical Khmer art and dance. But beneath the stone temples and royal rituals, everyday Khmer people—royals, warriors, farmers, and children alike—participated in games and sports that reflected the vitality, spirituality, and discipline of their culture.
In ancient Cambodia, what we now consider “sports” played a key role in daily life, from martial training to communal festivals.
Sport and Society in the Ancient Khmer Empire
The Khmer Empire (9th to 15th century CE) was one of the most powerful civilizations in Southeast Asia, covering much of modern-day Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam. With a strong military, a complex court system, and deep spiritual traditions, physical activity was integrated into many aspects of life—particularly for warriors and youths in training.
1. Bokator: Martial Art of the Warriors
One of the most iconic physical disciplines of the Khmer people is Bokator—an ancient martial art believed to date back over a thousand years. Bokator means “pounding a lion” (bok = to pound, ator = lion), and it includes a wide range of strikes, locks, throws, and even weapon techniques.
Warriors of the Khmer Empire likely used Bokator techniques in military training. Movements are inspired by animals—lions, birds, snakes—and involve both hand-to-hand and armed combat. It is not just a sport, but a philosophy rooted in Khmer identity and spirituality.
Today, Bokator has been revived as a cultural treasure and was even added to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2022.
2. Traditional Wrestling (Baok Cham Bab)
Baok Cham Bab is a form of Khmer traditional wrestling, likely practiced for centuries. Matches involve grappling techniques, throws, and pins, and are often accompanied by traditional music played live during the bout.
Wrestling was traditionally performed during Cambodian New Year and other festivals, serving as both sport and entertainment. It also helped train agility and strength in young men, preparing them for roles as guards or warriors.
3. Ouk Chatrang: Khmer Chess
Although not a physical sport, Ouk Chatrang—traditional Khmer chess—was a mental sport played by nobles, scholars, and strategists. It required planning, foresight, and strategic thinking—traits valued highly in both governance and warfare.
It is believed to have evolved from ancient Indian chess and was a popular pastime in temple courtyards and royal courts.
4. Pradal Serey: The Art of Free Fighting
Pradal Serey is a striking martial art that resembles Muay Thai but with distinct Khmer roots. It emphasizes elbow strikes, knee strikes, clinching, and kicks. Ancient depictions of Pradal Serey-like stances and movements appear in bas-reliefs at temples like Bayon and Banteay Srei.
Though it likely served more as a combat sport in ancient times, similar to gladiator-style contests, it was also used in military training and ceremonial duels.
5. Boat Racing (Bon Om Touk)
Bon Om Touk, or the Cambodian Water Festival, celebrates the reversal of the Tonle Sap River’s flow. But beyond the ritual lies one of the country’s oldest and most spectacular traditional sports: long-boat racing.
In ancient times, boat racing was not just ceremonial—it showcased the skill and strength of oarsmen, who were often soldiers or fishermen. Royal courts sponsored boat crews, and the competition was fierce. The sport demonstrated unity, rhythm, and power, which mirrored the coordination needed in Khmer society and the military.
6. Khmer Traditional Games (Leaks Mai, Angkunh)
Ancient Khmer communities also had games played during festivals and in villages:
Leaks Mai – A game similar to duck-duck-goose, focusing on agility and attention.
Angkunh – Played with large seeds or stones, requiring precision and timing.
While simple, these games were essential in building community bonds, physical coordination, and social interaction among children and adults alike.
Sport as Spiritual and Social Expression
Sports in ancient Khmer life weren’t purely recreational—they often held spiritual significance. Martial arts like Bokator were linked to animal spirits and protective deities. Wrestling matches could accompany rituals and offerings, while boat races celebrated the divine rhythms of nature.
Even ordinary games were tied to seasonal cycles, such as New Year or harvest festivals, making physical play a celebration of life, nature, and resilience.
Ancient Khmer Sports Live On
Today, Cambodia is rediscovering the richness of its ancient sports. With the resurgence of Bokator and traditional wrestling, and the annual celebration of boat racing, the Khmer people are reconnecting with the strength and spirit of their ancestors.
Ancient Khmer sports weren’t just pastimes—they were reflections of an empire’s soul. Through them, the Khmer expressed strength, skill, harmony with nature, and pride in their heritage—values that still resonate in modern Cambodia.
