The Best Time To Visit Cambodia

The best time to visit Cambodia is between November and April when it sees very little rain. During this time you’ll see clear blue skies making it a great time to enjoy a relaxing getaway on the southern coast. Outside of this period, humidity increases and the rains come, assisting Cambodian farmers in the growing of their crops. However, you shouldn’t be deterred from traveling – the countryside is lush and green, the rivers are full and flowing, and the temples are quiet. This is the best time to visit some of the outer-lying temples, which will often be deserted. At the end of the summer one of Cambodia’s true wonders comes to life – The Tonle Sap, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and home to Cambodia’s floating villages.

Cambodia weather

The tropical climate of Cambodia is relatively calm and consistent throughout the country due to its vast plains. The average temperature is 27 degrees Celsius and there are two seasons: the humid monsoon season from April to October, and the dry season from November to March. Between March and May, the dusty flatlands that stretch through Cambodia become hot and dry with temperatures reaching almost 40 degrees Celsius during midday. Due to the lack of rainfall, the timing is perfect for escaping to the beaches of Sihanouk Ville. The ideal season to explore the temples of Angkor Wat is during the rainy season which arrives in June and often lasts until November. The rain replenishes the lush greenery adding to the mystique of the mighty ruins, covered in moss and leafy trees. Eventually, the rain ushers in cooler temperatures by October.

Overall, the best time of year to visit Cambodia is from November to February. Temperatures reach comfortable mid-20 degrees Celsius; skies are clear and evenings are cool. However, Cambodia’s weather can be unpredictable, so it may be a good idea to carry an umbrella or raincoat with you. It is also easy and inexpensive to purchase raincoats from supermarkets and general stores.

Climate of Cambodia

Cambodia’s climate, like that of the rest of Southeast Asia, is dominated by monsoons. Cambodia has 2 seasons and a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year.

The northeast monsoon season runs from December through April, when it brings sunny and dry weather, especially in the early months of January and February. The rains come when the winds shift into the southwest monsoon from May to November. During this period, you can expect the most precipitation in Cambodia throughout the months of September and October.