visa-admin
Updated 2026-09-23 5 min
In short
- ●IndiGo is reopening the direct Kolkata (CCU) – Siem Reap (REP) route in early October 2026, according to the SSCA spokesperson.
- ●The route is being pitched as a boost for tourism and bilateral Cambodia-India exchanges.
- ●For expats and digital nomads in Siem Reap, it adds a regional option to South Asia and could push prices down.
- ●The announced frequency is 4 flights per week; bookings are open on IndiGo's website.
4
Flights per week
Early October 2026
Service start
Kolkata (CCU) – Siem Reap (REP)
Route
SSCA / Phnom Penh Post
Source
The facts at a glance
- 4 flights per week. IndiGo is relaunching the direct Kolkata (CCU) – Siem Reap (REP) route starting in early October 2026.
- Official announcement. The news was confirmed by the spokesperson for Cambodia's State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA).
- Second attempt. The route was previously operated by IndiGo before being suspended, so this is a resumption, not a first.
- Stated goal. Support Indian tourism to Cambodia and smooth bilateral trade exchanges.
- Local impact. An extra option for expats and nomads in Siem Reap traveling to India or transiting through Kolkata.
How it unfolded
The resumption of the Kolkata–Siem Reap route is part of a months-long sequence involving aviation negotiations and IndiGo's repositioning in Southeast Asia.
- 2024-2025: IndiGo operates the Kolkata–Siem Reap route, then suspends it due to yield and fleet reasons.
- Mid-2026: Cambodia and India ramp up discussions on air connectivity and bilateral tourism.
- September 2026: IndiGo confirms the route's resumption starting in early October.
- Late September 2026: The SSCA validates the schedule and the frequency of 4 flights per week.
- Early October 2026: First commercial flight of the new CCU–REP season.
- Late 2026: First review expected on load factors and a possible frequency increase.
Breakdown
The CCU–REP route affects several user segments in Siem Reap. Here's how the interest in this resumption breaks down.
| Segment | Figure / frequency | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Weekly frequency | 4 flights | Roughly one flight every two days in each direction. |
| Indian tourists | Growing market | India is among Cambodia's priority source markets. |
| Expats and nomads | Regional option | Alternative to transits via Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur or Singapore. |
| Business travelers | Direct link | Facilitates Cambodia-India exchanges without a stopover. |
| Competing airlines | Fare pressure | Expected downward effect on fares to South Asia. |
What it actually changes in Siem Reap
- More choices to India. A direct CCU–REP flight avoids long transits via Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur.
- Potentially lower fares. IndiGo's arrival puts pressure on airlines already serving the region.
- Gateway to South Asia. Kolkata becomes a convenient entry point for Nepal, Bangladesh or Sri Lanka via connecting flights.
- Local tourism effect. More Indian visitors means more demand for guesthouses, restaurants and guides in Siem Reap.
- Business opportunities. Cambodia-India exchanges become smoother, which may interest expat entrepreneurs in tourism and import-export.
How to make the most of it without surprises
- Step 1: Check the exact schedule on IndiGo's official website before booking a connecting flight.
- Step 2: Verify Indian visa requirements (e-Visa) and validity period before departure.
- Step 3: Allow a minimum 3-hour buffer if you're connecting to another flight from Kolkata.
- Step 4: Monitor fares over several weeks: launch prices can change quickly.
- Step 5: Make sure your travel insurance covers India, not just Cambodia.
- Step 6: Save the contacts of the Cambodian embassy in New Delhi and your relevant consulate.
- Step 7: Keep a digital copy of your passport, visa and ticket in the cloud.
Frequently asked questions
When does IndiGo's Kolkata–Siem Reap route resume?
In early October 2026, according to the spokesperson for the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA).
How many flights per week are planned?
4 flights per week between Kolkata (CCU) and Siem Reap (REP), roughly one flight every two days in each direction.
Why did IndiGo stop this route?
The airline had suspended the service due to yield and fleet availability reasons, before relaunching it in 2026.
What's the impact for expats in Siem Reap?
An extra regional option to South Asia, potentially more competitive fares and simplified transit through Kolkata.
Where can I book tickets?
Directly on IndiGo's official website or through local travel agencies in Siem Reap.
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Published by
Siem Reap Hub
The community guide for expats and travelers in Siem Reap, Cambodia