When is the Best Time to Visit Cambodia ?

If you are looking for the best time to visit Cambodia, we would say that anytime around the year is great to see what Cambodia can offer. It depends so much on your preference: what you want to see, where you want to stay, which experience you want to take within this country. 

Weather in Cambodia

With the temperature rarely under 23 degrees Celsius, there is a saying that Cambodia had only 1 season which is HOT season. Let's say it is warm all year round, to be fair. However, there are also 2 separate seasons in Cambodia, like Laos and Southern Vietnam (Saigon): dry season and wet season. 

About the middle of October until the beginning of April is Cambodia's dry season. Despite the possibility of some lingering heavy rain, the countryside will be at its most lush and picturesque. Since humidity is low and temperatures are warm, December and January are peak tourist months in Cambodia. Temperatures continue to rise during the next few months, until becoming intolerable in April (often exceeding 40°C). However, those looking to soak in some rays may enjoy breathtaking ocean views at this time of year at southern beaches and seaside towns.

During the normal monsoon season, which occurs between May and October, we can divide it into 3 sub-seasons. The hot season takes place from March through June with temperatures averaging 35 degrees. Staying hydrated and avoiding prolonged exposure to the heat can make this much more bearable. August and September are 2 months that marks up the rainy season of Cambodia, however, it is still hot and humid even though it is raining. Until October-December, the temperature is a bit lower and you can feel the coolness when traveling in Cambodia.

Best Time to Visit Cambodia

Visit Cambodia in cooler months

In Cambodia, there is no such thing as winter. The climate is consistently warm. Because of the cooler weather, many visitors flock to Cambodia between December and February. Even in January, the coldest month of the year, highs often hover between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius. December, January and February are the greatest time to visit Cambodia for a jungle safari, seeing the vibrant marketplaces, or seeing the temples of Angkor.

During this period, temperatures in major cities like Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and Battambang are at their coolest. Lessening humidity makes it simpler to explore indoor attractions like museums, marketplaces, and temples. It's peak tourist season, so do expect crowds in Cambodia.

Plan to book your accommodation and air ticket earlier than usual, since December through February is the peak season and popular time to visit Cambodia. The cost of accommodation is typically higher as well. Booking in advance is recommended if you plan on seeing Cambodia at Christmas. You should also anticipate large crowds in popular sightseeing destinations. During this period, Angkor Wat may be overrun with tourists. Lakes, rivers, and the Tonle Sap are typically still full in December after the rainy season, making it an ideal time to explore the floating towns there.

Visit Cambodia in beach season

Cambodia's beautiful beaches are perfect for lounging in the sun and exploring throughout 3 months from March till May. It may be the finest time of year to visit Cambodia if you're hoping to enjoy a tropical beach vacation. At this time of year, visitors flock to the southern islands as well as Kep and Kampot. Kampot is a tranquil town, and its easy going atmosphere is one of its main selling points. The Kampot River is perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding at this time of year, and it's also close to Kep and Rabbit Island. With the sun shining and the clouds at bay, a boat trip is in order.

You may also like the islands of Koh Rong, Koh Rong Samloem, and Koh Ta Kiev from Sihanoukville. Although you may party from sunset to sunset at more busy beaches like Ochheuteal Beach and Serendipity Beach, tranquil Koh Ta Tiev remains serene unexplored land.

If you want to have some cultural discovery, the Khmer New Year celebration which lasts for three days in the middle of April sounds perfect. Phnom Penh's museums, restaurants, and other tourist hotspots close for the holiday as locals travel to their provincial homes to rejoice with their families. It's one of the year's most popular events, so make sure your hotel reservations are done early.

Visit Cambodia in the green season

In the hottest months from June to August, when the rainy season in Cambodia officially begins, tourism might drop considerably. It's possible that you'll have the good time to visit Cambodia during the rainy season. It's the "green season" because the landscape looks so lush and beautiful at this time. Cambodia is at its most beautiful and verdant during the wet season, when the country bursts into flower.

During the rainy season, it doesn't rain continuously, so you can still see some of Cambodia's top attractions without fighting the crowds. If your family's trip to Cambodia needs to match with school vacation times, these months may be your best bet. The more remote the location, the quieter it is.

Summer flooding in Cambodia causes delays on the roadways, yet getting anywhere is still possible. Particularly in rural areas, mud can make driving dangerous or even impossible.

Visit Cambodia at the end of monsoon season

In September and October, the nation experiences regular deluges of rains, transforming it into a soggy expanse of tropical green. Although flooding is prevalent and dirt roads may become impassable, seeing the country during this season is intriguing. The rainy season isn't the most convenient time to visit Cambodia, but it's also a great time to see the country's breathtaking nature.

November brings lower temperatures and drier conditions. As this is the end of the monsoon season, more and more visitors flock to the area. The weather is mild, making it pleasant for sightseeing, and Angkor Wat is less crowded than in the cool months.

In addition, this is the month of the Cambodian Water Festival. The celebration marks the moment when the Tonle Sap River flows backwards into the Mekong. The cities of Siem Reap and Phnom Penh are known for their early November celebrations of the Bonn Om Toeuk Water festival. The Mekong River is the site of vibrant boat racing. The majority of communities have expressed interest in taking part by constructing 100-person capacity boats. The boats used in the races are decorated to reflect the culture of each participating town. Phnom Penh becomes a national gathering place for Cambodians from all across the country during the annual water festival. If you want to mingle with the locals, Sisowath Quay is the place to be. The riverfront is where most of the action takes place, with people congregating to witness the lit boat procession, the boat races, and the fireworks.

See more:
>> The 10 Most Famous Places to Visit in Cambodia
>> Vietnam and Cambodia Itinerary in 15 days