Cambodia captivates visitors with the magnificent Angkor Wat temple complex, French colonial architecture, and pristine tropical beaches. From the bustling capital of Phnom Penh to the serene countryside, Cambodia offers an unforgettable blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality.
Cambodia has a tropical monsoon climate with two distinct seasons: a dry season from November to April and a wet season from May to October. Temperatures are warm year-round, ranging from 22°C (72°F) in cooler dry-season nights to 38°C (100°F) during April's hot season. The wet season brings heavy afternoon rains that flood the Tonlé Sap Lake to six times its dry-season size and turn the Angkor jungle vivid green.
Best time to visit
Best: November to February (cool and dry season)
Peak Season: November to February (cool and dry season)
Shoulder Season: March to May (hot season with fewer crowds)
Avoid: June to October (monsoon season with lower prices)
Best Reason:
Avoid Reason:
Month-by-month weather
Typical conditions throughout the year.
January
23C/73F
Cool, very dry, peak crowds
February
25C/77F
Warm and dry, pleasant evenings
March
28C/82F
Getting hot, dry season ending
April
33C/91F
Hottest month, Khmer New Year festivities
May
30C/86F
First rains begin, prices drop
June
29C/84F
Afternoon thunderstorms, green temples
July
28C/82F
Regular rain, lush jungle, low crowds
August
28C/82F
Wet but manageable, good value
September
27C/81F
Heaviest rains, some flooding risk
October
27C/81F
Still wet, prices very low, thinning crowds
November
26C/79F
Rains clearing, Water Festival spectacular
December
24C/75F
Dry and cool, holiday season begins
The seasons
What to expect in each part of the year.
Spring
Months: Mar-May
The hot dry season — temperatures peak at 36-40°C in April, the hottest month. Lowest rainfall, very dusty. Khmer New Year celebrations in mid-April are spectacular but cause transport disruption.
Summer
Months: Jun-Aug
Early wet season with daily afternoon thunderstorms that cool the air. Lush green scenery, fewer crowds, and 30-50% lower prices. Rains usually last 1-2 hours then clear. Tonlé Sap begins rising.
Fall
Months: Sep-Nov
Peak wet season September-October with heaviest rains and possible flooding. November sees rain tapering off rapidly — by late November it's nearly dry. Water Festival in November is Cambodia's most spectacular event.
Winter
Months: Dec-Feb
The peak tourist season with cool, dry, comfortable weather. December temperatures hover around 24-28°C — ideal for temple exploration. January is the coolest month and most popular for tourism.
Crowds & peak times
When to expect tourists and when to avoid them.
- High Season
- December to February
- Shoulder Season
- March and November
- Low Season
- April to October
Major events & festivals
Time your visit around what matters.
Khmer New Year (Chaul Chnam Thmey)
The biggest celebration in Cambodia with temple visits, traditional games, water throwing, and family gatherings. Cities empty as locals return to home villages. Temples crowded, festive atmosphere everywhere. Businesses close for 3-5 days.
Water Festival (Bon Om Touk)
Spectacular dragon boat races on the Tonle Sap River in Phnom Penh celebrating the reversal of water flow. Three days of festivities with illuminated floats, fireworks, concerts, and street parties. Over a million visitors to Phnom Penh.
Pchum Ben (Ancestors Day)
The second most important Khmer festival honoring deceased ancestors. Cambodians visit up to seven pagodas over 15 days making offerings of food to monks. Beautiful ceremonies, but businesses may have irregular hours.
Royal Ploughing Ceremony
Ancient Brahmin ceremony performed by the King to mark the beginning of rice planting season. Sacred oxen predict the year's harvest. Held at Veal Mein park near Royal Palace with thousands attending.
King Norodom Sihamoni's Birthday
Three-day public holiday celebrating the current King's birthday. Royal Palace illuminated, fireworks, public celebrations in Phnom Penh. Government offices and many businesses closed.
Angkor Sangkranta (Khmer New Year in Siem Reap)
Special New Year celebrations at Angkor Wat with traditional ceremonies, apsara dance performances, and cultural events. Great time to experience Khmer culture but extremely crowded temples.
Sea Festival
Annual beach festival in Sihanoukville celebrating Cambodia's coastline with beach games, seafood festivals, live music, and water sports competitions. Growing in popularity each year.
Angkor Photo Festival
International photography festival in Siem Reap featuring exhibitions, workshops, and talks by renowned photographers. Free exhibitions around town. Great for photography enthusiasts.
Phnom Penh International Film Festival
Week-long film festival showcasing local and international films with outdoor screenings, workshops, and filmmaker Q&As. Growing cultural event highlighting Cambodian cinema revival.
Giant Puppet Parade Battambang
Unique parade of giant puppets created by Phare Ponleu Selpak arts school through Battambang streets. Colorful, creative celebration with street performances and music.