Best Time Of Year To Visit Cambodia: Travel And Weather Tips

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an aerial view of Angkor Wat and the text "the best time to visit Cambodia"

Cambodia is one of the most memorable countries I’ve been to in Southeast Asia, but the weather can make a big difference in your experience, especially if you plan on visiting Angkor Wat, the islands, or spending long days outdoors. The best time to visit Cambodia is usually from November through February, when temperatures are slightly cooler, humidity is lower, and conditions are more comfortable for sightseeing and traveling around the country.

That said, every season has pros and cons. The dry season offers the best weather but also larger crowds and higher prices, while the rainy season brings greener landscapes, fewer tourists, and lower accommodation costs.

Keep reading to learn more about the best time of year to visit Cambodia and what times of year to avoid.

Last updated: May 12, 2026

Published: April 6, 2024

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Planning a trip to Cambodia? Here are more travel guides you can use to plan the perfect trip:

Overview: Best Time to Visit Cambodia

  • Best overall time to visit: November through February
  • Best weather: December and January
  • Cheapest time to visit: Rainy season (May to October)
  • Best time for Angkor Wat: November to February
  • Best time for beaches and islands: December to March
  • Hottest months: March and April
  • Best time for green landscapes: Rainy season
  • Best time for fewer crowds: June and September

Best Time to Visit Cambodia by Season

Cambodia has two main travel seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. Each offers a very different experience depending on whether you prioritize comfortable sightseeing weather, smaller crowds, beach time, or greener landscapes.

Here’s what to expect throughout the year.

Dry Season in Cambodia (November to April)

The dry season is generally considered the best time to visit Cambodia. Temperatures are slightly cooler, humidity is lower, and conditions are much more comfortable for sightseeing and traveling around the country.

Me standing in front of one of the main sites in Cambodia.

This is the best time to visit major attractions like Angkor Wat, along with cities like Phnom Penh and the islands along Cambodia’s southern coast.

December and January usually offer the most comfortable weather, while March and April become much hotter and more humid.

Because the weather is at its best, this is also peak tourist season. Hotels, tours, and transportation can become more expensive, especially around the holidays.

Pros:

  • Lower humidity
  • Best sightseeing weather
  • Easier transportation conditions
  • Great beach and island weather

Cons:

  • Larger crowds
  • Higher hotel prices
  • Extreme heat later in the dry season

Best for:

  • First-time visitors
  • Temple visits
  • Beach trips
  • Multi-city Cambodia itineraries

Rainy Season in Cambodia (May to October)

The rainy season brings greener landscapes, fewer tourists, and lower prices throughout Cambodia. Temperatures remain warm, but afternoon rain showers become much more common.

Me wearing a yellow helmet riding an ATV in Cambodia

Despite the name, it usually does not rain all day. Many areas experience short but heavy afternoon storms followed by clearer weather later on.

This season can actually be a great time to visit if you want quieter temple visits, greener countryside scenery, and more budget-friendly travel.

The rainy season is especially beautiful around rice fields, rural areas, and temple complexes where the surrounding landscapes become much more vibrant.

Pros:

  • Smaller crowds
  • Lower accommodation prices
  • Lush green scenery
  • Cooler afternoons after rain

Cons:

  • Humidity
  • Heavy afternoon showers
  • Occasional flooding or muddy roads
  • Less predictable beach weather

Best for:

  • Budget travel
  • Photography
  • Green season scenery
  • Quieter travel experiences

Best Time to Visit Cambodia for Angkor Wat

For most travelers, the best time to visit Angkor Wat is during the dry season from November through February, when temperatures are slightly cooler and humidity is lower.

Me standing in the middle of the grass field in Siem Reap near the trees.

Since exploring Angkor Wat usually involves spending long hours outdoors walking between temples, the weather can make a huge difference in your experience. Early mornings are especially important because temperatures rise quickly later in the day.

The dry season also offers the clearest sunrise conditions around Angkor Wat, though it is also the busiest time of year. Sunrise viewing areas can become crowded, especially during December and January.

The rainy season can still be a surprisingly good time to visit the temples if you do not mind occasional showers. The surrounding jungle becomes greener, crowds are smaller, and the moats and ponds around the temples often create beautiful reflections after rainfall.

March and April are usually the most difficult months for visiting Angkor Wat because of the intense heat and humidity. If you travel during this time, starting temple visits before sunrise becomes even more important.

If you want a more detailed breakdown of weather, crowds, sunrise conditions, and the best months for temple photography, check out my full guide to the best time to visit Angkor Wat.

Best Time to Visit Cambodia for Beaches and Islands

Me on a beach in Koh Rong.

Cambodia’s southern coast and islands are best visited during the dry season from December through March, when rainfall is lower and beach conditions are more reliable.

Popular destinations like Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem usually experience sunnier weather, calmer water, and better boat conditions during this time of year.

The rainy season can still be enjoyable on the islands, but weather becomes less predictable between May and October. Afternoon storms and rougher seas can occasionally affect ferry schedules and outdoor activities.

If your main priority is beach time, island hopping, snorkeling, or relaxing by the water, the dry season is generally the safest choice.

That said, traveling during shoulder-season months like November or early May can sometimes offer a good balance between lower crowds and decent beach weather.

Temperatures stay warm year-round along Cambodia’s coast, so the main difference is usually rainfall and humidity rather than cold weather.

Best Time to Visit Cambodia: Month-by-Month Guide

If you already have a season in mind, here’s what to expect throughout the year in Cambodia, including weather, crowds, and travel conditions.

January in Cambodia

January is one of the best months to visit Cambodia. Temperatures are relatively comfortable, humidity is lower, and rainfall is minimal across most of the country.

This is an excellent month for visiting Angkor Wat, exploring cities like Phnom Penh, and spending time on the islands.

Best for:

  • Comfortable sightseeing weather
  • Temple visits
  • Beach trips

February in Cambodia

February remains warm and dry, with excellent travel conditions throughout Cambodia. Tourist crowds are still fairly high, especially around major attractions.

This is another great month for combining temples, cities, and island destinations in one trip.

Best for:

  • Multi-city itineraries
  • Outdoor activities
  • Dry weather travel

March in Cambodia

March marks the beginning of much hotter weather across Cambodia. Temperatures and humidity begin increasing quickly, especially during the afternoons.

Early morning sightseeing becomes much more important during this time of year.

Best for:

  • Beach trips
  • Budget-friendly travel
  • Early morning exploring

April in Cambodia

April is usually the hottest month in Cambodia, with temperatures often climbing above 100°F (38°C) in some areas.

This is also when Khmer New Year takes place, bringing celebrations, water fights, and larger crowds around parts of the country.

Best for:

  • Cultural festivals
  • Island trips
  • Travelers comfortable with heat

May in Cambodia

May marks the beginning of the rainy season. Afternoon rain showers become more common, though temperatures remain hot and humid.

The countryside also starts becoming greener after the long dry season.

Best for:

  • Lower prices
  • Smaller crowds
  • Green scenery

June in Cambodia

June brings more regular rainfall, though storms are often short and concentrated in the afternoons or evenings.

Tourist numbers are lower, and many parts of Cambodia begin looking much greener and more vibrant.

Best for:

  • Budget travel
  • Photography
  • Quieter temple visits

July in Cambodia

July is humid and rainy, but still very manageable for travel. Rain usually does not last all day, leaving plenty of time for sightseeing between showers.

This can be a great month for travelers wanting fewer tourists and lower prices.

Best for:

  • Green season travel
  • Fewer crowds
  • Budget trips

August in Cambodia

August continues the rainy season with warm temperatures and regular afternoon storms. Rural areas and rice fields become especially lush during this time of year.

Popular tourist sites also tend to feel much less crowded than during the dry season.

Best for:

  • Green landscapes
  • Photography
  • Relaxed travel pace

September in Cambodia

September is usually one of the wettest months in Cambodia. Heavy rainfall is possible, especially in the afternoons.

However, this is also one of the quietest months for tourism, making it appealing for travelers prioritizing lower prices and smaller crowds.

Best for:

  • Budget travel
  • Quieter experiences
  • Rainy season scenery

October in Cambodia

October marks the transition out of the rainy season. Rainfall slowly decreases while landscapes remain green and vibrant from the previous months.

Travel conditions generally improve later in the month, making October one of the more underrated times to visit Cambodia.

Best for:

  • Shoulder season travel
  • Green scenery
  • Improving weather conditions

November in Cambodia

November is one of the best overall months to visit Cambodia. Temperatures become more comfortable, humidity drops, and the rainy season mostly ends.

The Bon Om Touk Water Festival also takes place during November, bringing celebrations and boat races throughout the country.

Best for:

  • Comfortable weather
  • Cultural festivals
  • Temple and island trips

December in Cambodia

December brings some of the coolest and driest weather of the year to Cambodia. Conditions are excellent for sightseeing, island hopping, and traveling around the country.

This is also one of the busiest months for tourism, especially around Christmas and New Year.

Best for:

  • First-time visitors
  • Dry weather
  • Multi-destination Cambodia trips

What to Pack for Cambodia

Packing for Cambodia mostly comes down to preparing for heat, humidity, rain, and long days outdoors.

No matter when you visit, lightweight clothing and comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially if your itinerary includes temples, cities, beaches, and long sightseeing days.

If you want a more detailed breakdown of what to bring, check out my full Cambodia packing list guide.

Dry Season Packing (November to April)

The dry season brings hot temperatures and strong sun throughout much of Cambodia, especially during March and April.

You should pack:

If you plan on visiting islands or beaches, swimwear and quick-dry clothing are also useful.

Rainy Season Packing (May to October)

The rainy season brings high humidity and frequent afternoon showers, though temperatures usually remain warm year-round.

You should pack:

  • Lightweight raincoat or umbrella
  • Quick-dry clothing
  • Waterproof shoes or sandals
  • A waterproof bag for electronics
  • Mosquito repellent
  • Extra socks and lightweight layers

Rain showers are often short but heavy, so having quick-dry clothing can make travel much more comfortable.

Temple Dress Code

Many temples in Cambodia, including Angkor Wat, require respectful clothing.

You should avoid:

  • Crop tops
  • Short shorts
  • Clothing that exposes shoulders or knees

Lightweight pants, loose clothing, and breathable shirts with sleeves work well while still helping you stay comfortable in the heat.

Best Time of Year to Visit Cambodia: Final Thoughts

For most travelers, the best time to visit Cambodia is from November through February, when temperatures are slightly cooler, humidity is lower, and conditions are much more comfortable for sightseeing around the country.

This is the best time for visiting Angkor Wat, exploring cities like Phnom Penh, and spending time on Cambodia’s islands and beaches.

If you want fewer crowds, lower prices, and greener scenery, the rainy season can also be a great time to visit. While afternoon rain showers are common, they usually do not last all day and can make Cambodia’s landscapes feel much more vibrant.

March and April are typically the most difficult months for sightseeing because of the intense heat and humidity, especially during long days outdoors.

No matter when you visit, Cambodia offers a mix of temples, beaches, food, history, and nature that makes it one of the most rewarding countries to travel through in Southeast Asia.

Ready to plan your trip? Here are some of the things I use every time I plan a trip:

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