Negative Socio-cultural Impacts on Angkor Wat

Abstract

The increasing popularity of Angkor Wat, , the largest monument of the Angkor group as tourist destination in both national and international tourism resulted in economic growth but also caused irreparable destruction to the local culture and environment. The purpose of this study is to analyze the socio-cultural impacts of this tourism on the people living around the Angkor Wat area, to see how tourism and socio-cultural impact as interconnected. The study is based on primary data collected through a mixed methodology approach, with direct observation and semi structured interviews to see the current status of the resident perceptions of tourism. Results from this study support the idea that there is a strong interrelationship between tourism and socio cultural impact upon residents. This research will highlight the importance of community perceptions of tourism and how far it has impacted them.