Best Time to Visit Cambodia: Weather by Month, Seasons and Travel Tips

• Best overall time: November to February, when cooler temperatures and lower rainfall make sightseeing more comfortable.
• Best for Angkor Wat: November to February, especially for early-morning temple visits.
• Best for beaches: November to April, with December to February offering generally favourable conditions.
• Best for budget travellers: May to September, when fewer visitors and seasonal hotel offers may be available.
• Best for green landscapes: July to October, when monsoon rains transform the countryside.
• Hottest months: March and April, when inland temperatures can become particularly high.
• Ideal trip duration: 5–7 days for Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, with another 2–3 days for a coastal destination.

November to February is generally the best time to visit Cambodia for comfortable weather, outdoor sightseeing and cultural experiences. March and April are hotter, while May to October brings the rainy season, with heavier rainfall typically occurring later in the season.

Choose November to February for the most comfortable sightseeing weather. Consider March and April if you prefer hot, sunny conditions, or May to October if you want greener scenery and potentially better-value accommodation.

Cambodia has a tropical monsoon climate, with warm temperatures throughout the year and distinct dry and wet seasons. Instead of experiencing extreme winter conditions, travellers can expect relatively warm weather in every month, with rainfall and humidity changing throughout the year.

For travel planning, Cambodia's climate can be divided into three practical periods: the cool dry season, the hot dry season and the wet season.

Cool Dry Season: November to February

November to February is generally the most comfortable period to explore Cambodia. Rainfall decreases, humidity becomes more manageable and temperatures are relatively pleasant for sightseeing.

This is an excellent time to visit Angkor Wat, explore Phnom Penh's cultural attractions, discover Battambang and enjoy the country's coastal destinations. December and January are particularly popular, so expect higher hotel demand and more visitors at major attractions.

Hot Dry Season: March to April

March and April bring rising temperatures, with April generally among the hottest months of the year. Rainfall remains relatively limited during much of this period, although occasional showers may occur.

Travellers can still visit Cambodia during these months, but outdoor sightseeing requires more planning. Visit temples early in the morning, carry sufficient water and take a break during the hottest afternoon hours. April is also an important cultural period because of Khmer New Year.

Wet Season: May to October

The wet season brings higher humidity, regular showers and occasional thunderstorms. Rainfall generally becomes heavier between July and September, although the timing and intensity vary across the country.

Rain often falls in afternoon or evening bursts rather than lasting throughout the day. The countryside becomes greener, rice fields fill with water and the landscapes around rural Cambodia become particularly scenic.

This period can suit flexible travellers looking for fewer crowds and potentially better accommodation prices. However, heavy rain may affect rural roads, boat services, island transfers and outdoor excursions.

Cambodia is a year-round destination, but each month offers a different balance of weather, crowds and travel costs. November to February is generally the best time to visit Cambodia for comfortable sightseeing. Choose March to May for cultural festivals and June to October for greener landscapes and potentially lower travel costs.

Cambodia in January

Cambodia in January offers pleasant temperatures, low rainfall and favourable conditions for exploring Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh and the country’s beaches. It is also a good time to enjoy an Angkor hot air balloon ride, as dry weather and generally clear skies can provide scenic views of the ancient temple complex. Flights remain weather-dependent, so confirm availability and operating conditions before booking.

• Temperature: 22°C–31°C
• Rain: very low. 
• Crowds: very high.
• Weather: Dry, sunny and comfortable.
• Best experiences: Explore Angkor Wat, enjoy a hot air balloon ride near the Angkor temple complex, visit Phnom Penh and relax on Cambodia’s beaches.

Cambodia in February

Cambodia in February remains dry and comfortable, making it ideal for exploring historical sites, countryside landscapes and coastal destinations. Expect more visitors at major attractions.

• Temperature: 23°C–32°C
• Rain: very low.
• Crowds: high.
• Weather: Mostly sunny with little rainfall.
• Best experiences: Discover ancient temples, explore Siem Reap and enjoy island excursions.

Cambodia in March

Cambodia in March marks the beginning of hotter weather, with rising temperatures and mostly dry conditions. Plan temple visits and outdoor activities early in the day.

• Temperature: 25°C–34°C
• Rain: low. 
• Crowds: medium
• Weather: Hot, sunny and increasingly humid.
• Best experiences: Visit Angkor Wat early, explore cultural landmarks and enjoy beach activities.

Cambodia in April

Cambodia in April is one of Cambodia’s hottest months. Khmer New Year brings cultural celebrations, traditional activities and festive gatherings across the country.

• Temperature: 26°C–35°C
• Rain: low, with occasional showers. 
• Crowds: high around Khmer New Year.
• Weather: Very hot, with occasional showers.
• Best experiences: Celebrate Khmer New Year, visit temples and experience traditional festivities.

Cambodia in May

Cambodia in May brings increasing humidity and the first significant monsoon showers. Hotels are cheaper. Expect short, heavy storms in the afternoon.

• Temperature: 25°C–34°C
• Rain: medium and rising. 
• Crowds: low.
• Weather: Hot and humid, with increasing rainfall.
• Best experiences: Explore cultural attractions, photograph green landscapes and find off-season travel deals.

June in Cambodia

June marks the beginning of Cambodia’s rainy season, with humid weather and regular showers. However, most tourist attractions remain open, making it a suitable month for exploring Siem Reap, visiting museums and enjoying Cambodia’s lush rural landscapes. June also coincides with the summer school holiday period for many Indian families. While overall tourist demand is generally lower during this season, Indian families may still find June a practical time to plan a holiday, particularly with flexible itineraries and some allowance for occasional rain.

• Temperature: 25°C–33°C
• Rainfall: Medium to high, with regular showers.
• Crowds: Generally low, compared with the peak tourist season.
• Weather: Hot and humid, with frequent rain showers.
• Best experiences: Explore Siem Reap and Angkor Wat, visit museums and photograph lush rural landscapes.

Cambodia in July

It is humid, with regular showers, but most sites stay open. Afternoon downpours are common. Rice fields are bright green, and temples are quiet. Wet temple steps can be slippery.

• Temperature: 25°C–32°C
• Rain: high. 
• Crowds: low.
• Weather: Warm, humid and rainy, often with afternoon showers.
• Best experiences: Photograph rice fields, explore cultural sites and enjoy quieter attractions.

Cambodia in August

Cambodia in August is wet and humid, with frequent showers that can affect road travel and outdoor excursions. However, the landscapes are especially lush. The south coast gets heavy rain and rough seas, so island trips are often disrupted

• Temperature: 25°C–32°C
• Rain: high. 
• Crowds: low.
• Weather: Frequent showers and high humidity.
• Best experiences: Enjoy countryside photography, visit indoor attractions and explore temples between showers.

Cambodia in September

Cambodia in September is usually one of the wettest months. Heavy rain can block roads and delay transfers. Landscapes are at their greenest, and prices are the lowest of the year. Choose this month only if cost and photography matter more than comfort. Pchum Ben, a major religious festival, often falls in late September or October. Locals travel to their hometowns, so buses and trains fill up and some businesses close.

• Temperature: 25°C–31°C
• Rain: very high. 
• Crowds: low.
• Weather: Heavy rainfall, high humidity and cloudy periods.
• Best experiences: Photograph rice fields, explore cultural attractions and enjoy Cambodia’s green countryside.

Cambodia in October

Cambodia in October sees gradually decreasing rainfall towards the end of the month. The countryside remains green, and travel conditions begin improving.

• Temperature: 24°C–31°C
• Rain: very high, easing late in the month. 
• Crowds: low.
• Weather: Warm and humid, with occasional heavy showers.
• Best experiences: Explore temples, enjoy countryside photography and visit attractions before peak season.

Cambodia in November

Cambodia in November marks the start of the dry season, bringing more comfortable weather for temple visits, city tours and beach holidays.

• Temperature: 23°C–31°C
• Rain: low. 
• Crowds: high.
• Weather: Less rainfall and more comfortable humidity.
• Best experiences: Visit Angkor Wat, explore Phnom Penh and plan coastal excursions.

Cambodia in December

Cambodia in December offers dry weather and comfortable conditions for exploring Cambodia’s major attractions. It is a peak travel month, especially around Christmas and New Year.

• Temperature: 22°C–30°C
• Rain: very low. 
• Crowds: very high.
• Weather: Mostly dry, sunny and pleasant.
• Best experiences: Explore ancient temples, enjoy beach holidays and discover Cambodia’s cultural landmarks.

Beach travel tip: November to April is generally the more favourable period for visiting Cambodia's southern coast and islands. However, sea conditions can change, so clear water and uninterrupted boat transfers cannot be guaranteed, even during the dry season.

These are general travel windows, not guarantees of favourable weather. Check local conditions and transport availability before travelling.

• Sightseeing and history: November to February. March and April also work if you start at sunrise.
• Beaches and islands: December to April.
• Festivals: April for Khmer New Year, late September or October for Pchum Ben, and November for Bon Om Touk. Dates change each year, so confirm them first.
• Budget travel: May to August for the best balance of price and weather. September and October are cheaper still, but the rain risk is high.
• Photography and nature: July to October for green rice fields and dramatic skies. Expect disruption and pack good rain gear.
• Families with children: December to February, when it is cooler. Plan short outdoor sessions and a midday break.
• Honeymoon: November to February. For a lower price, try March or early November.

Five to seven days is a useful starting point for a first Cambodia trip, depending on the destinations you want to cover.

• 3 to 4 days: Focus on Siem Reap and the Angkor temple complex.
• 5 to 7 days: Combine Siem Reap with Phnom Penh.
• 7 to 10 days: Add a coastal destination such as Koh Rong, or explore Kampot and Kep.
• 10 days or more: Allow time for a slower itinerary covering temples, cities, countryside and beaches.

Avoid packing too many destinations into a short trip. Travel times, transport connections and weather conditions can affect how much you can comfortably explore.

• Choose your season: November to February is the easiest starting point for comfortable sightseeing, while the shoulder and rainy months may suit flexible budgets.
• Compare total trip costs: Check flights, accommodation, transfers, attraction tickets and meals rather than comparing hotel prices alone.
• Plan temple visits early: Angkor Wat and other archaeological sites can be hot and exposed, so start outdoor activities early in the day.
• Check entry requirements: Review the latest Cambodian visa rules, passport validity requirements and any applicable arrival or immigration forms before departure.
• Pack for the weather: Carry light clothing, sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes in the dry season. During the wet season, add a compact umbrella or rain jacket and footwear with good grip.
• Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting temples and religious sites, covering shoulders and knees where required.
• Keep plans flexible in the monsoon: Confirm island transfers, boat trips and rural excursions close to the travel date.
• Book peak-season travel early: December, January and major festival periods can be busy, so compare options in advance.

The best time to visit Cambodia is November to February for comfortable weather and sightseeing, with December and January ideal for first-time visitors. For greener landscapes, fewer crowds and potentially lower costs, consider May to September, keeping rainfall in mind. Choose your travel dates based on whether you prefer exploring Angkor Wat, enjoying island escapes or combining both.

Ready to plan your Cambodia holiday? Explore Cambodia tour packages and create an itinerary that combines ancient temples, local culture and coastal experiences at the right time of year.