Last Updated on July 27, 2026 by Daniel Globe
Cambodia is warm throughout the year, but the experience changes greatly by month. December through February usually brings the easiest weather for temple visits and city sightseeing. March and April are much hotter, while May through October brings greener scenery, fewer visitors, and regular monsoon rain.
Quick Answer
For most travelers, the best time to visit Cambodia is from December through February. These months are relatively dry and less hot than spring. November and March can also work well, while the May-to-October rainy season suits travelers who prefer greener landscapes, smaller crowds, and flexible plans.
Key Takeaways
- December through February: Best overall balance of lower rainfall and more comfortable temperatures.
- March and April: Mostly dry but very hot, especially around midday.
- May through October: Wetter, greener, and often less crowded, with the greatest rain risk from July through September.
- Cambodia’s coast: Usually best during the dry season because wet-season rain and rough seas can affect island travel.
- Festivals: Khmer New Year is held in April, while Water Festival dates and programs should be confirmed each year.
Cambodia Weather at a Glance
Cambodia has a tropical monsoon climate. The country is generally hot and humid, but rainfall, temperature, and comfort levels change through the year. The Cambodia Ministry of Tourism broadly divides the year into a wet season from May to October and a dry season from November to April.
| Period | Typical Conditions | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| November to February | Drier weather, relatively cooler mornings and evenings, and strong demand at major attractions. | First visits, Angkor, city touring, beaches, and travelers with fixed schedules. |
| March to April | Mostly dry but increasingly hot. April is commonly one of the hottest months. | Khmer New Year, travelers comfortable with heat, and early-morning sightseeing. |
| May to October | Humid with regular rain, lush scenery, and possible flooding or transport delays. | Lower crowds, green landscapes, photography, and flexible itineraries. |
Cambodia is hot and humid year-round. The CDC identifies March through May as the hottest period, so heat precautions matter even when the weather is dry.
Best Months to Visit Cambodia
December Through February: Best Overall
December, January, and February are usually the easiest months for a first trip. Rainfall is limited, humidity is often more manageable, and mornings are more comfortable for walking around Angkor, Phnom Penh, or Battambang.
This is also a popular travel period. Hotels, guides, transport, and famous sunrise locations can be busy. Reserve important accommodation and tours early, especially around Christmas, New Year, and major local holidays.
November and March: Good Balance With Trade-Offs
November often brings improving weather and a landscape that is still green after the rainy season. Some rain may remain early in the month, but conditions generally become drier.
March is usually dry but noticeably hotter. It can suit travelers who want less peak-season pressure and do not mind arranging outdoor activities early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
April: Festivals and Intense Heat
April is important because Khmer New Year is celebrated in the middle of the month. It is also one of Cambodia’s hottest periods. Travelers should expect strong sun, high daytime temperatures, holiday travel demand, and possible business closures during the celebration.
Pro Tip: At Angkor, begin at sunrise or soon after opening, rest during the hottest part of the day, and return in the late afternoon. Carry water, wear sun protection, and take breaks before you feel overheated.
Dry Season: The Most Popular Time to Visit
Cambodia’s main dry travel period runs from roughly November through April. November through February usually offers the most comfortable conditions, while March and April remain dry but become much hotter.
Clearer weather makes it easier to plan full sightseeing days, road journeys, cycling trips, and visits to outdoor archaeological sites. Angkor’s temples are easier to explore when paths are dry, although popular areas may feel crowded during sunrise and late afternoon.
The dry season is also the better choice for Cambodia’s southern beaches and islands. Places such as Kep, Sihanoukville, and the nearby islands generally receive calmer and sunnier conditions than during the monsoon period.
Dry weather does not mean cool weather. Cambodia can still be hot during December and January, and heat becomes more intense as April approaches. Lightweight clothing, water, sunscreen, and a hat remain important throughout the season.
Angkor is a sacred site. The official Angkor Visitor Code of Conduct prohibits revealing clothing such as shorts or skirts above the knees and clothing that leaves the shoulders bare in sacred places.
Rainy Season: Benefits and Travel Considerations
The rainy season generally lasts from May through October. July, August, and September are commonly among the wettest months. Rain often arrives as a strong afternoon or evening downpour, but longer periods of rain can also occur.
The wet season has real advantages. Rice fields and forested areas become vivid green, reservoirs and waterfalls fill, dust decreases, and some attractions receive fewer visitors. Angkor can be especially atmospheric under dramatic clouds or after rain.
Travel becomes less predictable, however. Flooding may affect low-lying areas, rural roads, ferries, and journeys on unpaved routes. Wet stone at temples can also become slippery. Travelers visiting remote areas should leave extra time between destinations and confirm road conditions locally.
Warning: Never walk, ride, or drive into floodwater when its depth or current is unclear. Heavy rain can damage roads and disrupt transport. Keep your passport, phone, medication, and essential documents in waterproof protection.
Mosquito-borne illnesses are another consideration. The CDC Yellow Book reports that dengue occurs throughout Cambodia and commonly peaks during the rainy season. Use an effective insect repellent, cover exposed skin when practical, and discuss vaccines or preventive medication with a travel-health professional before visiting rural or forested areas.
Avoid swimming or wading in untreated freshwater or floodwater. Contaminated water and wet soil can carry infections, particularly after heavy rain.
Shoulder Seasons: Pros and Cons
Cambodia does not have one sharply defined shoulder season. May and late October through early November are useful transition periods, but conditions vary by year and region.
May is hot and humid as the monsoon begins. Rain can provide relief from the heat, and the landscape starts becoming greener. Late October and early November may offer a better balance because rainfall is usually easing while the countryside remains lush.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Accommodation may cost less than during the December-to-February peak. | Weather is less predictable than during the core dry months. |
| Popular attractions may feel less crowded. | Hot, humid conditions remain possible, especially in May. |
| The countryside can be green and photogenic. | Boat trips, island transfers, and rural transport may change because of weather. |
Cambodia Weather by Month
The table below describes typical conditions rather than a guaranteed forecast. Monsoon timing and rainfall can shift from one year to another.
| Month | Typical Weather | Crowd Level | Planning Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Dry and relatively cool | High | Excellent overall month; book early. |
| February | Dry and becoming warmer | High to moderate | Good for temples, cities, and beaches. |
| March | Dry and hot | Moderate | Plan outdoor activities early. |
| April | Very hot; storms may begin late | Variable around Khmer New Year | Prepare for heat and holiday demand. |
| May | Hot, humid, and increasingly wet | Lower | Carry rain protection and stay flexible. |
| June | Regular rain with breaks | Low | Good for greener scenery and smaller crowds. |
| July | Wet and humid | Low to moderate | Expect showers and possible road delays. |
| August | Wet with lush landscapes | Low | Allow extra time for rural travel. |
| September | Often among the wettest months | Low | Higher flood risk; avoid tight schedules. |
| October | Rain gradually eases | Low to moderate | Green scenery with improving conditions. |
| November | Becoming drier and more comfortable | Rising | A strong balance of weather and scenery. |
| December | Dry and relatively cool | High | One of the best months; reserve early. |
Weather Patterns in Different Regions of Cambodia
Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and the Central Lowlands
Phnom Penh and Siem Reap follow Cambodia’s main hot, wet, and dry pattern. These lowland areas can feel especially hot before the monsoon begins. Angkor visitors should plan around midday heat even during the cooler part of the dry season.
Southern Coast and Islands
Sihanoukville, Kep, Koh Rong, and nearby coastal destinations receive heavy monsoon rain. Rough seas and storms may disrupt ferries, diving, snorkeling, or island transfers from May through October. December through March is generally the safer planning window for a beach-focused trip.
Mondulkiri and Ratanakiri
The northeastern provinces include elevated areas that can have cooler evenings than the central plains, particularly during the dry season. Rain can make rural roads muddy or difficult during the monsoon, so travelers should check local conditions before visiting waterfalls, forests, or remote villages.
Cardamom Mountains
The Cardamom Mountains receive some of Cambodia’s heaviest rainfall. Wet-season trekking can involve swollen rivers, muddy trails, leeches, and transport disruption. Travelers should use an experienced local operator and avoid entering remote terrain without current route information.
Best Time to Visit Cambodia by Activity
| Travel Priority | Best Period | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Angkor and temple touring | December to February | Lower rain and more comfortable walking conditions. |
| Beaches and islands | December to March | Generally calmer seas and more reliable sunshine. |
| Green scenery and photography | July to early November | Rice fields, forests, and waterways are full and green. |
| Lower crowds | May to October | Fewer visitors at many major attractions, with more rain risk. |
| Khmer New Year | Mid-April | Traditional celebrations, games, family gatherings, and holiday travel. |
| Trekking and northeastern highlands | November to February | Drier trails, cooler nights, and fewer weather-related road problems. |
Packing Tips for Different Seasons
What to Pack During the Dry Season
- Lightweight, breathable shirts and trousers.
- A wide-brimmed hat or cap.
- High-SPF sunscreen.
- A reusable water bottle.
- Comfortable walking shoes with good grip.
- A light layer for cooler early mornings or air-conditioned transport.
- Clothing that covers the shoulders and knees for temples.
What to Pack During the Rainy Season
- A compact rain jacket or poncho.
- Quick-drying clothing.
- Water-resistant footwear with strong traction.
- Dry bags or waterproof pouches for electronics and documents.
- An umbrella without a sharp exposed tip.
- Mosquito repellent and long, loose clothing.
- Extra time and basic supplies in case transport is delayed.
Useful Items in Every Season
- Personal medication in its original packaging.
- A small first-aid kit.
- Hand sanitizer and tissues.
- Electrolyte or oral rehydration packets.
- A secure cross-body bag.
- Copies of travel documents stored separately from the originals.
Note: A rain jacket does not replace sun protection. Bright sun and high UV exposure can return quickly after a downpour, so carry sunscreen and drinking water during every season.
Festivals and Events: Timing Your Visit
Khmer New Year
Khmer New Year, also called Chaul Chnam Thmey, is celebrated in mid-April. The national holiday ran from April 14 through April 16 in 2026. Families travel, temples hold ceremonies, and communities organize traditional games and celebrations.
This can be an exciting time to visit, but it is also hot and busy. Reserve intercity transport and accommodation early. Expect some shops, offices, and services to close or operate differently during the holiday.
Bon Om Touk, the Water Festival
Bon Om Touk is connected with the changing flow of the Tonle Sap River and is commonly scheduled in October or November according to the lunar calendar. Boat races and public gatherings are traditionally associated with the festival, especially in Phnom Penh.
Plans can change. The official 2026 public holiday remained scheduled for November 23 through November 25, but the Cambodian government suspended the main celebrations along the Tonle Sap River in front of the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh. Provincial celebrations could still be held according to local conditions.
Pchum Ben
Pchum Ben is an important Buddhist observance held in September or October, with dates based on the lunar calendar. Cambodians visit pagodas and make offerings in honor of deceased relatives and ancestors. Travelers should behave quietly and respectfully around ceremonies.
Festival dates, public events, boat races, road closures, and local programs should always be confirmed through current Cambodian government or tourism announcements before booking a trip around a specific celebration.
Choosing the Best Time for Your Cambodia Trip
The best period depends on the type of trip you want:
- Choose December through February for the easiest weather and the most reliable sightseeing conditions.
- Choose November or March for a balance between weather and peak-season demand, while accepting some rain in November or stronger heat in March.
- Choose April for Khmer New Year, but prepare for intense heat and holiday crowds.
- Choose May through October for greener scenery, smaller crowds, and a more flexible trip.
- Avoid a tight rural itinerary in September if flooding or road delays would seriously affect your plans.
- Choose the dry season for the coast because rough seas and heavy rain can disrupt island travel during the monsoon.
For a first visit that includes Angkor, Phnom Penh, and the southern coast, January or February is usually the simplest choice. Travelers who value low crowds more than predictable weather may prefer June, July, or late October.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to travel to Cambodia?
December through February is the best overall period for most travelers. Rainfall is usually low, and temperatures are relatively more comfortable than in March, April, or May.
What is Cambodia’s weather like during the dry season?
November through February is generally dry and relatively comfortable. March and April are also mainly dry, but they are much hotter. Strong sun and high humidity remain possible throughout the season.
Is Cambodia worth visiting during the rainy season?
Yes. The countryside is greener, waterfalls and waterways are fuller, and many attractions receive fewer visitors. The trade-off is a greater chance of flooding, wet roads, slippery surfaces, rough seas, and schedule changes.
Does it rain all day during Cambodia’s rainy season?
Not always. Rain often comes as a heavy shower lasting a few hours, commonly later in the day. Longer rain events can occur, especially during the wettest months, so plans should remain flexible.
Which festivals should travelers consider?
Khmer New Year is held in mid-April. Pchum Ben falls in September or October, and the Water Festival is usually scheduled in October or November. Lunar dates and public programs vary, so confirm the current schedule before booking.
How crowded is Cambodia from December through February?
This is one of the busiest periods, especially at Angkor, Siem Reap, and coastal destinations. Book important hotels, guides, flights, and transport early, and visit major attractions outside the busiest hours when possible.
When is the best time to visit Angkor Wat?
December through February offers the easiest walking conditions. The rainy season can provide greener scenery, reflective pools, and smaller crowds, but stone paths may be wet and slippery. Visit early or late in the day to reduce heat exposure.
What is the hottest time of year in Cambodia?
March through May is generally the hottest period, with April often feeling especially intense. Travelers who are sensitive to heat should favor December, January, or February.
Sources
- Cambodia Ministry of Tourism: Weather in Cambodia — wet and dry seasons, peak rainfall, regional rain, and dry-season conditions.
- Cambodia Ministry of Tourism: Advice for Travelers — season definitions and clothing guidance.
- CDC Yellow Book: Cambodia — heat, rainy-season health risks, mosquito precautions, floodwater, and road safety.
- Angkor Enterprise: Visitor Code of Conduct — temple clothing, safety, and respectful behavior.
- Cambodia Ministry of Economy and Finance: 2026 Public Holidays — official Khmer New Year and Water Festival holiday dates.
- Agence Kampuchea Presse: 2026 Water Festival Notice — suspension of the main Phnom Penh celebrations and status of provincial events.