✓ Updated August 2026
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When is the Best Time to Visit Cambodia?
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Quick Answer:
The most rewarding time to visit Cambodia is during the dry season, from November to March, when the air is comfortably warm and the skies are a brilliant blue, perfect for exploring ancient temples like Angkor Wat. Imagine the cool morning mist rising over the jungle as you witness a breathtaking sunrise, or the vibrant energy of bustling markets under a clear sky. While the hot season from April to June can be intense, it offers fewer crowds and the chance to see the landscape in its lush, post-rain glory, leading into the rainy season from May to October, which brings dramatic skies and a verdant, revitalized countryside.
Airport Code
PNH
Coordinates
13.40°, 104.90°
Climate Overview
Cambodia's climate is a vibrant dance of sun and rain, shaping unforgettable experiences. The dry season, from November to April, offers a welcome respite with warm, sunny days perfect for exploring ancient temples like Angkor Wat, where the air is often still and carries the scent of dry earth. As April gives way to May, the monsoon season arrives, not with relentless downpours, but with dramatic, life-giving afternoon showers that transform the landscape into lush, emerald green and awaken the vibrant colors of blooming gardens. This is also a time when the Tonle Sap lake swells, creating unique waterways and a festive atmosphere for Khmer New Year celebrations. While the humidity can be high, the cooling rains offer a refreshing break, making it an ideal time to witness Cambodia's natural beauty at its most abundant.
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Weather, best months, things to do, and travel tips
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Top Things to Do
Sunrise Serenity at Angkor Wat
Witness the iconic silhouette of Angkor Wat emerge from the predawn darkness, a truly spiritual experience as the first rays of sun paint the sky behind its ancient spires. Arrive before 5 AM to secure a prime viewing spot and soak in the hushed atmosphere before the crowds descend.
Floating Village Life on Tonle Sap
Venture beyond the temples to Kampong Phluk or Kompong Khleang, vibrant floating villages on Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake. Observe daily life unfold on the water, from stilted homes and floating schools to bustling markets, offering a unique glimpse into a resilient community.
Culinary Exploration in a Siem Reap Backstreet
Ditch the tourist menus and dive into a local eatery tucked away in Siem Reap's back alleys for authentic Khmer flavors. Seek out dishes like 'Amok Trey' (fish curry steamed in banana leaves) or 'Kuy Teav' (noodle soup) and savor the complex, aromatic spices.
Tuk-Tuk Adventure to Banteay Srei
Hire a local tuk-tuk driver for a scenic journey through the Cambodian countryside to Banteay Srei, the 'Citadel of Beauty.' This exquisite temple, renowned for its intricate, well-preserved pink sandstone carvings, feels like a hidden jewel compared to the grander Angkor complex.
💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.
Essential Travel Tips
While USD is widely accepted, always carry small denominations of both USD and Cambodian Riel (KHR). Many smaller vendors and tuk-tuk drivers prefer Riel for smaller purchases, and you'll avoid getting too much change in Riel that you might not use. Aim to get Riel for change under $10 purchases.
Dress modestly when visiting temples and pagodas – that means covering your shoulders and knees. This applies to both men and women, and you'll often see people carrying scarves or sarongs specifically for this purpose. Showing respect for these sacred sites is paramount.
For getting around cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, use ride-hailing apps like Grab. It's significantly cheaper and safer than hailing random tuk-tuks, and you'll know the price upfront, avoiding haggling. You can also book longer journeys between cities through the app.
Don't be afraid to try street food, but use your judgment! Look for stalls with high turnover and where food is cooked fresh in front of you. A must-try is 'Num Pang' (Cambodian sandwich) from a busy local vendor – it's a delicious and cheap meal.
Pack light, breathable clothing, but definitely include a light rain jacket or poncho, especially during the wet season (May-October). Even outside of the heaviest downpours, sudden tropical showers can appear out of nowhere. A quick-dry towel is also a lifesaver.
Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas, and watch out for petty theft like bag snatching. Keep valuables secure and out of sight, and avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics. It's also wise to have a copy of your passport stored separately.
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Find Your Best Month to Visit Cambodia
Pick what matters most to you and we'll rank every month of the year using Cambodia's actual weather data.
- #1MarBest match🌡️ 93°F high🌧️ 4 rainy days🌅 12h daylight
- #2Apr🌡️ 93°F high🌧️ 6 rainy days🌅 12.3h daylight
- #3Feb🌡️ 91°F high🌧️ 2 rainy days🌅 11.6h daylight
- #4Jan🌡️ 88°F high🌧️ 1 rainy days🌅 11.5h daylight
- #5May🌡️ 91°F high🌧️ 10 rainy days🌅 12.5h daylight
- #6Dec🌡️ 86°F high🌧️ 3 rainy days🌅 11.4h daylight
- #7Jun🌡️ 90°F high🌧️ 12 rainy days🌅 12.6h daylight
- #8Nov🌡️ 86°F high🌧️ 7 rainy days🌅 11.5h daylight
- #9Jul🌡️ 88°F high🌧️ 13 rainy days🌅 12.5h daylight
- #10Aug🌡️ 88°F high🌧️ 14 rainy days🌅 12.3h daylight
- #11Oct🌡️ 88°F high🌧️ 14 rainy days🌅 11.7h daylight
- #12Sep🌡️ 88°F high🌧️ 16 rainy days🌅 12h daylight
Weather Details
Monthly Weather Data Table
| Month | High (°C) | Low (°C) | High (°F) | Low (°F) | Rainfall (mm) | Rain Days | Daylight (h) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 31°C | 22°C | 88°F | 72°F | 5mm | 1 days | 11.5h |
| Feb | 33°C | 23°C | 91°F | 73°F | 10mm | 2 days | 11.6h |
| Mar | 34°C | 25°C | 93°F | 77°F | 40mm | 4 days | 12.0h |
| Apr | 34°C | 26°C | 93°F | 79°F | 75mm | 6 days | 12.3h |
| May | 33°C | 26°C | 91°F | 79°F | 140mm | 10 days | 12.5h |
| Jun | 32°C | 25°C | 90°F | 77°F | 160mm | 12 days | 12.6h |
| Jul | 31°C | 25°C | 88°F | 77°F | 170mm | 13 days | 12.5h |
| Aug | 31°C | 25°C | 88°F | 77°F | 180mm | 14 days | 12.3h |
| Sep | 31°C | 24°C | 88°F | 75°F | 200mm | 16 days | 12.0h |
| Oct | 31°C | 24°C | 88°F | 75°F | 180mm | 14 days | 11.7h |
| Nov | 30°C | 22°C | 86°F | 72°F | 80mm | 7 days | 11.5h |
| Dec | 30°C | 21°C | 86°F | 70°F | 30mm | 3 days | 11.4h |
Cambodia Month by Month: Complete Guide
Planning your trip to Cambodia? Here's what to expect each month:
Jan in Cambodia
Weather
31°C°C / 88°F°F
1 days rainy days • 5mmmm
What to Expect
Warm and summery, with highs near 31°C — great for beaches and outdoor activities. Generally dry with little rainfall. Highs run about 3°C below Mar, one of the year's warmest months. It's the driest month of the year here.
Crowd Level
🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation
Feb in Cambodia
Weather
33°C°C / 91°F°F
2 days rainy days • 10mmmm
What to Expect
Hot, with daytime highs around 33°C. Plan indoor breaks during midday and stay hydrated. Generally dry with little rainfall.
Crowd Level
🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation
Mar in Cambodia
Weather
34°C°C / 93°F°F
4 days rainy days • 40mmmm
What to Expect
Hot, with daytime highs around 34°C. Plan indoor breaks during midday and stay hydrated. Generally dry with little rainfall. It's one of the warmest months of the year here.
Crowd Level
🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation
Apr in Cambodia
Weather
34°C°C / 93°F°F
6 days rainy days • 75mmmm
What to Expect
Hot, with daytime highs around 34°C. Plan indoor breaks during midday and stay hydrated. Occasional showers are likely, so a light rain jacket is handy. It's one of the warmest months of the year here.
Crowd Level
🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability
May in Cambodia
Weather
33°C°C / 91°F°F
10 days rainy days • 140mmmm
What to Expect
Hot, with daytime highs around 33°C. Plan indoor breaks during midday and stay hydrated. Occasional showers are likely, so a light rain jacket is handy.
Crowd Level
🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability
Jun in Cambodia
Weather
32°C°C / 90°F°F
12 days rainy days • 160mmmm
What to Expect
Hot, with daytime highs around 32°C. Plan indoor breaks during midday and stay hydrated. Expect frequent rain this month — bring waterproof gear. Highs run about 2°C below Mar, one of the year's warmest months.
Crowd Level
🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early
Jul in Cambodia
Weather
31°C°C / 88°F°F
13 days rainy days • 170mmmm
What to Expect
Warm and summery, with highs near 31°C — great for beaches and outdoor activities. Expect frequent rain this month — bring waterproof gear. Highs run about 3°C below Mar, one of the year's warmest months.
Crowd Level
🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early
Aug in Cambodia
Weather
31°C°C / 88°F°F
14 days rainy days • 180mmmm
What to Expect
Warm and summery, with highs near 31°C — great for beaches and outdoor activities. Expect frequent rain this month — bring waterproof gear. Highs run about 3°C below Mar, one of the year's warmest months.
Crowd Level
🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early
Sep in Cambodia
Weather
31°C°C / 88°F°F
16 days rainy days • 200mmmm
What to Expect
Warm and summery, with highs near 31°C — great for beaches and outdoor activities. Expect frequent rain this month — bring waterproof gear. Highs run about 3°C below Mar, one of the year's warmest months. It also brings the most rain of any month here.
Crowd Level
🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability
Oct in Cambodia
Weather
31°C°C / 88°F°F
14 days rainy days • 180mmmm
What to Expect
Warm and summery, with highs near 31°C — great for beaches and outdoor activities. Expect frequent rain this month — bring waterproof gear. Highs run about 3°C below Mar, one of the year's warmest months.
Crowd Level
🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability
Nov in Cambodia
Weather
30°C°C / 86°F°F
7 days rainy days • 80mmmm
What to Expect
Warm and summery, with highs near 30°C — great for beaches and outdoor activities. Occasional showers are likely, so a light rain jacket is handy. It's one of the coolest months of the year here.
Crowd Level
🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation
Dec in Cambodia
Weather
30°C°C / 86°F°F
3 days rainy days • 30mmmm
What to Expect
Warm and summery, with highs near 30°C — great for beaches and outdoor activities. Generally dry with little rainfall. It's one of the coolest months of the year here.
Crowd Level
🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early
All Things to Do in Cambodia
Sunrise Serenity at Angkor Wat
attractionWitness the iconic silhouette of Angkor Wat emerge from the predawn darkness, a truly spiritual experience as the first rays of sun paint the sky behind its ancient spires. Arrive before 5 AM to secure a prime viewing spot and soak in the hushed atmosphere before the crowds descend.
Best time: November-March
Floating Village Life on Tonle Sap
natureVenture beyond the temples to Kampong Phluk or Kompong Khleang, vibrant floating villages on Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake. Observe daily life unfold on the water, from stilted homes and floating schools to bustling markets, offering a unique glimpse into a resilient community.
Best time: June-November (high water season for best views)
Culinary Exploration in a Siem Reap Backstreet
foodDitch the tourist menus and dive into a local eatery tucked away in Siem Reap's back alleys for authentic Khmer flavors. Seek out dishes like 'Amok Trey' (fish curry steamed in banana leaves) or 'Kuy Teav' (noodle soup) and savor the complex, aromatic spices.
Tuk-Tuk Adventure to Banteay Srei
activityHire a local tuk-tuk driver for a scenic journey through the Cambodian countryside to Banteay Srei, the 'Citadel of Beauty.' This exquisite temple, renowned for its intricate, well-preserved pink sandstone carvings, feels like a hidden jewel compared to the grander Angkor complex.
Phnom Penh's Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda
attractionExplore the opulent grounds of the Royal Palace, a dazzling complex of gilded buildings, and step onto the floor of the Silver Pagoda, paved with thousands of silver tiles and housing priceless Buddha statues. Dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, to enter this sacred space.
Best time: November-April
Artisan Shopping at Artisans Angkor
shoppingDiscover exquisite Cambodian craftsmanship at Artisans Angkor, a social enterprise supporting rural artisans. Browse beautifully handcrafted silk scarves, intricate wood carvings, and unique lacquerware, knowing your purchase directly benefits local communities and preserves traditional skills.
Sunset Drinks overlooking the Mekong
nightlifeFind a riverside bar in Phnom Penh or Kampot and unwind with a refreshing Angkor beer as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the mighty Mekong River. It's a perfect way to reflect on the day's adventures and witness the local rhythm of life along the water.
Trekking through Cardamom Mountains National Park
natureEscape to the lush, biodiverse Cardamom Mountains for an immersive nature experience. Hike through dense rainforests, discover hidden waterfalls, and keep an eye out for rare wildlife like gibbons and clouded leopards on guided treks that support conservation efforts.
Best time: December-May (dry season)
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Getting Around Cambodia
Tuk-tuks
The quintessential Cambodian experience, tuk-tuks are open-air motorized rickshaws perfect for short to medium distances within cities like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. They offer a breezy way to see the sights and are incredibly convenient for hopping between temples or navigating busy streets.
Giant Ibis Bus Service
For inter-city travel, Giant Ibis is a popular and reliable choice, offering comfortable, air-conditioned buses with Wi-Fi and onboard restrooms. It's the go-to for journeys between major hubs like Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville.
Local Buses (City Buses)
In Phnom Penh, a network of local buses is emerging as a very affordable way to get around the city. While not as extensive as in some other Southeast Asian capitals, they are improving and offer a glimpse into local life.
Motorcycle Taxis (Motodops)
For solo travelers or those needing to navigate narrow streets quickly, motodops are ubiquitous. They are essentially motorcycles with drivers willing to take passengers, often with a helmet provided.
Private Car with Driver
For comfort, convenience, and longer excursions, hiring a private car with a driver is an excellent option, especially for families or groups. This is particularly popular for exploring the Angkor temples or for longer transfers between cities.
River Ferries (Mekong River)
For a unique perspective and a slower pace, consider the river ferries connecting towns along the Mekong River, such as between Kratie and Stung Treng. This offers a glimpse into rural life and stunning riverine landscapes.
💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the absolute best time to visit Cambodia, and what should I expect weather-wise?
For me, the sweet spot is from November to February. The weather is cooler and drier, making temple exploration in Siem Reap incredibly pleasant. You'll avoid the intense heat and humidity of the shoulder seasons, though it's also the busiest time, so book accommodations and popular tours in advance.
Beyond Angkor Wat, what's a truly unique cultural experience I shouldn't miss in Cambodia?
Definitely consider visiting a floating village on Tonle Sap Lake, but choose wisely! Kompong Phluk or Kompong Khleang offer a more authentic glimpse into daily life than the more touristed Chong Kneas. Witnessing how communities adapt to the lake's fluctuating water levels is fascinating, and it's a great way to support local livelihoods directly.
How should I handle money and tipping in Cambodia?
US dollars are widely accepted and often preferred, especially for larger purchases and at tourist-oriented places; just make sure your bills are crisp and new. Cambodian Riel is used for smaller change, so you'll get a mix. Tipping isn't mandatory, but a small tip (a few dollars) for good service at restaurants or for guides is always appreciated and goes a long way.
What's the deal with dress code at temples, especially Angkor Wat?
This is crucial for showing respect. You absolutely must cover your shoulders and knees when visiting any religious site, including Angkor Wat and its surrounding temples. I always pack a lightweight scarf or sarong to easily throw on over shorts or tank tops – it's a lifesaver and ensures you won't be turned away.
Is it easy to get around Cambodia, or should I rely on organized tours?
Getting around is surprisingly manageable! For inter-city travel, buses and minivans are common and affordable. Within cities like Siem Reap or Phnom Penh, tuk-tuks are ubiquitous and a fun way to see the sights; agree on a price beforehand. For more remote areas or if you prefer convenience, hiring a private driver for a day or two can be well worth it.
What's one common misconception about Cambodia that visitors often have?
Many people focus solely on the tragic history, which is important to acknowledge, but they miss the incredible resilience and vibrant culture of the Cambodian people today. The country is full of warmth, delicious food, and stunning natural beauty beyond the temples. Don't let the past overshadow the present joy and optimism you'll find.
What is the cheapest month to visit Cambodia?
Cambodia is generally cheapest to visit during its quieter off-season, around Jun and Jul. Hotel and flight prices tend to be lower then and there are fewer crowds; the trade-off is less reliable weather. Exactly how much you save depends on the destination and how far ahead you book, so staying flexible with your dates helps you find the best rates.
What should I avoid in Cambodia?
The main thing to plan around is the weather: Jun and Jul are usually the least comfortable months to visit Cambodia — Jun in particular brings heavy rainfall, so it's worth avoiding if you can be flexible with your dates.
Is Cambodia expensive to visit?
Costs in Cambodia vary a lot with your travel style and when you go, with the quieter Jun period usually offering the best value. Booking accommodation and activities ahead, travelling outside the busiest months, and comparing prices across booking sites are the most reliable ways to keep your trip affordable.
What is Cambodia famous for?
Cambodia is famous for Floating Village Life on Tonle Sap, Trekking through Cardamom Mountains National Park, and Sunrise Serenity at Angkor Wat. Venture beyond the temples to Kampong Phluk or Kompong Khleang, vibrant floating villages on Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake. Observe daily life unfold on the water, from stilted homes and floating schools to bustling markets, offering a unique glimpse into a resilient community.
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