When is the best time to visit Cambodia?
Overall, the best time to visit Cambodia for most travelers is during the dry season from November to February when the weather is pleasant, and you can comfortably explore the country.
The dry season is the most popular time to visit Cambodia, as the weather is generally pleasant and rainfall is minimal.
The peak tourist season is from November to February when the weather is cooler and less humid.
This is an ideal time for exploring temples like Angkor Wat and enjoying outdoor activities.
The months of December and January are particularly popular, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.
Speak to someone who's been there
(201) 984-5372
Month-by-month guide for traveling in Cambodia
Visiting Cambodia in January - March
During these months, you can explore the country’s attractions comfortably without the disruption of heavy rainfall and enjoy various outdoor activities.
The weather in Cambodia during these months is relatively cooler and less humid, making it a great time for sightseeing, temple exploration, and outdoor adventures. The temperatures are typically comfortable, ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 32°C (90°F) in most regions.
Events & Festivals
Khmer New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey): Khmer New Year usually falls in April, but the celebration starts in April and sometimes extends into March. It’s one of the most significant festivals in Cambodia. Expect lively celebrations with traditional music, dance, and water splashing as people wish each other good luck and happiness.
Start Planning Your Luxury Family Trip to Cambodia
Visiting Cambodia in April - May
Visiting Cambodia from April to June falls during the wet season, which is characterized by hot and humid weather and frequent rainfall. The upsides are:
Lush Green Scenery: The wet season brings heavy rainfall, which results in lush and vibrant green landscapes throughout the country. The temples and countryside around Siem Reap, including Angkor Wat, are especially beautiful during this time, with green foliage and moats filled with water.
Fewer Tourists: Due to the less favorable weather, there are fewer tourists visiting Cambodia during these months. This means you can enjoy popular attractions with fewer crowds, making it a more peaceful and less hectic experience.
Events & Festivals
Khmer New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey): Khmer New Year is the most significant festival in Cambodia and usually falls in April. The exact date varies each year based on the lunar calendar. The celebration typically lasts for three days and is marked by lively festivities, traditional dance, music, and the famous water festival, where people playfully splash water on each other. Experiencing Khmer New Year can be a unique cultural experience.
Start Planning Your Luxury Family Trip to Cambodia
Visiting Cambodia in June - September
Visiting Cambodia from July to September falls during the wet season, which is characterized by heavy rainfall and high humidity. While this time of year is less popular for tourism due to the challenging weather conditions, there are still some aspects to consider:
Green Landscapes: The wet season results in lush and vibrant green landscapes throughout the country. The countryside, including the area around Angkor Wat, can be especially beautiful during this time, with rice paddies and fields in full growth.
Fewer Tourists: Due to the less favorable weather conditions, there are significantly fewer tourists visiting Cambodia during these months. This means you can explore popular attractions with fewer crowds, allowing for a more peaceful and less congested experience.
Lower Prices: Accommodation and tour prices are typically lower during the wet season, making it a more budget-friendly time to visit Cambodia. You can often find better deals on hotels and flights.
Authentic Cultural Experiences: With fewer tourists around, you may have the opportunity to engage in more authentic cultural interactions and experiences. Locals have more time to connect with visitors, and you can immerse yourself in the local way of life.
Events & Festivals
There are no major national festivals or celebrations specific to this time frame in Cambodia. However, you may come across local events, religious ceremonies, or smaller festivals in various regions. These can provide unique insights into Cambodian culture and traditions.
Visiting Cambodia in October - December
Visiting Cambodia from October to December is generally considered one of the best times to visit the country. This period falls during the dry season, offering favorable weather conditions for travelers. Here are some special aspects to consider:
Cooler and Dry Weather: Cambodia experiences cooler and less humid weather during these months, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Daytime temperatures are typically comfortable, ranging from 24°C (75°F) to 32°C (90°F).
Clear Skies: The dry season typically brings clear skies, making it an excellent time for photography and capturing the beauty of Cambodia’s landscapes and historical sites, including the Angkor temples.
Favorable Conditions for Temple Exploration: If you plan to visit the Angkor Archaeological Park, which includes Angkor Wat and other historic temples, the dry season is an ideal time. The moats around the temples are lower, and the weather is more pleasant for exploring these ancient sites.
Water Levels in Tonle Sap Lake: During the dry season, the water level in Tonle Sap Lake is lower, which can enhance boat tours and wildlife viewing in the area.
Cultural Experiences: The dry season tends to attract more tourists, but it also means that cultural events and activities are in full swing. You’ll have the opportunity to attend traditional dance performances, visit local markets, and interact with locals more easily.
Events & Festivals
Pchum Ben (Ancestor’s Day): Pchum Ben is one of Cambodia’s most important religious festivals, usually occurring in late September or early October. It’s a time when Cambodians pay respect to their ancestors by offering food to Buddhist monks and visiting pagodas to pray for their deceased loved ones. Observing Pchum Ben can provide a unique cultural experience.
