Best time to visit Cambodia - Weather, Climate, Temperature
Best time to visit Cambodia - Weather, Climate, Temperature
Get ready for a journey through Cambodia's seasons - from blooming springs to snowy winters. We'll guide you on when to visit, what to expect, and the best times for your adventure. Whether you love warm summers or cosy winters, Cambodia has something special for you. Let's explore the ideal times to discover the magic of this beautiful country with the assurance of international travel insurance.
Best Time to Visit Cambodia
The best time to visit Cambodia is during the dry season, spanning from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. From exploring the iconic temples of Angkor Wat to relaxing on the pristine beaches of Sihanoukville, visitors can enjoy a wide range of experiences without the discomfort of excessive heat or heavy rain.
Cambodia In Spring (March to May)
Temperature:
While the season begins with temperatures around 24°C, they rise up to the mid-30s as the months progress.
Weather:
Spring sees warmer, more humid weather with occasional showers, especially towards May.
Why Visit:
• Comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities like hiking and temple exploration.
• Less crowded attractions and vibrant landscape transformation in spring.
Things to Do:
• Visit Angkor Wat and Siem Reap temples with mild weather and fewer tourists.
• Enjoy outdoor adventures like trekking or exploring the countryside. And experience Khmer New Year celebrations with traditional rituals in April.
Cambodia In Summer (June to August)
Temperature:
Temperatures during the summer months typically range from 24 to 32° C
Weather:
Summer in Cambodia brings frequent afternoon showers or thunderstorms, greening the landscape.
Why Visit:
• Enjoy Cambodia's lush landscapes and blooming flowers during the low tourist season.
• Experience discounted prices on accommodations and tours while witnessing traditional farming practices like rice planting in rural areas.
Things to Do:
• Explore less crowded Angkor Wat and Siem Reap temples during summer.
• Tour the countryside by bicycle or motorbike, enjoying picturesque landscapes and interacting with locals.
Cambodia In Autumn (September to November)
Temperature:
Temperatures in autumn are generally pleasant, ranging from the mid-20s°C to low 30s°C.
Weather:
Autumn brings fewer and shorter rain showers, decreasing rainfall compared to the wet season.
Why Visit:
• Enjoy comfortable temperatures and sunny skies for exploring.
• Experience the landscape's transition for unique photos.
Things to Do:
• Visit Angkor Wat and Siem Reap temples, which have fewer crowds and are in comfortable temperatures.
• Experience traditional festivals like Pchum Ben honouring ancestors.
Cambodia In Winter (December to February)
Temperature:
Winter brings cooler temperatures to Cambodia, with average highs ranging from 20-30°C.
Weather:
Winter is the dry season in Cambodia, with minimal rainfall and plenty of sunshine.
Why Visit:
• Enjoy comfortable temperatures and sunny days for exploring.
• Experience Angkor Wat and UNESCO sites without wet season crowds.
Things to Do:
• Experience Phnom Penh's bustling markets and vibrant street scenes for unique culture and cuisine.
• Relax on pristine beaches in Sihanoukville or Koh Rong for warm sunshine and crystal-clear waters.
Best Season to Visit Cambodia
• Peak Season (Oct-Mar): Cooler temperatures and clear skies make this season great for temple exploration and beach vacations. However, due to the high number of tourists, book in advance.
• Shoulder Season (Apr-May, Sep-Oct): Manageable crowds, comfortable temperatures, occasional showers, and discounted prices make this season perfect for exploring with fewer tourists.
• Low Season (Jun-Aug): Frequent rainfall, lush landscapes, fewer crowds, budget-friendly travel. Ideal for adventurous travellers and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Best Month to Visit Cambodia
January:
• Temperature: Mild to cool temperatures, ranging from mid-20s°C to low 30s°C.
• Reasons to Visit: Enjoy the ideal weather at the beginning of the year in Cambodia to explore Angkor Wat and Siem Reap with fewer crowds.
• Cities to Visit: Battambang for colonial architecture and Kampot for riverside charm.
• Events and Festivals: International New Year's celebrations take place in major cities. They offer lively street parties and cultural performances.
February:
• Temperature: Similar to January, with mild to cool temperatures.
• Reasons to Visit: Explore Cambodia's diverse landscapes comfortably in the last month of the dry season before the rains come.
• Cities to Visit: Phnom Penh for historical sites, and Mondulkiri for eco-tourism adventures.
• Events and Festivals: Chinese New Year celebrations, with colourful parades, dragon dances, and traditional ceremonies in Chinese communities.
March:
• Temperature: Gradually warming up, with temperatures increasing towards the end of the month.
• Reasons to Visit: Experience the transition from dry to wet season, with lush landscapes and occasional rain showers. Enjoy outdoor activities before the temperatures rise further.
• Cities to Visit: Kampot for river cruises, and Kratie for dolphin watching.
• Events and Festivals: Meak Bochea, a Buddhist festival commemorating the spontaneous gathering of disciples to hear the Buddha's teachings.
April:
• Temperature: Warmer temperatures, ranging from mid-20s°C to high 30s°C.
• Reasons to Visit: Witness the vibrant landscapes and traditional festivities.
• Cities to Visit: Siem Reap for temple hopping and Koh Kong for eco-tourism.
• Events and Festivals: Khmer New Year celebrations (Chaul Chnam Thmey), marked by water splashing, traditional games, and religious rituals.
May:
• Temperature: Hot and humid, with temperatures reaching the high 30s°C.
• Reasons to Visit: Experience the full bloom of Cambodia's natural beauty, with lush greenery and vibrant landscapes.
• Cities to Visit: Sihanoukville for beach relaxation, and Pursat for countryside exploration.
• Events and Festivals: Royal Ploughing Ceremony (Pithi Chrat Preah Neangkol), a royal agrarian ritual to mark the beginning of the rice-growing season.
June:
• Temperature: Hot and humid, with occasional rainfall and temperatures in the mid-30s°C.
• Reasons to Visit: Embrace the tranquillity of Cambodia's low season, with fewer tourists and lush landscapes.
• Cities to Visit: Koh Kong for jungle trekking and Prey Veng for rural authenticity.
• Events and Festivals: Visak Bochea, a Buddhist holiday commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha.
July:
• Temperature: Similar to June, with hot and humid weather and occasional rainfall.
• Reasons to Visit: Explore Cambodia's natural wonders and cultural heritage during the low season.
• Cities to Visit: Ratanakiri is for ethnic minority encounters, and Kandal is for rural tranquillity.
• Events and Festivals: Asalha Puja is a Buddhist holiday commemorating the Buddha's first sermon to his disciples.
August:
• Temperature: Hot and humid, with occasional rainfall and temperatures in the mid-30s°C.
• Reasons to Visit: Experience Cambodia's natural beauty in full bloom, with lush landscapes and vibrant greenery.
• Cities to Visit: Kratie for river dolphin spotting and Koh Ker for jungle adventures.
• Events and Festivals: Pchum Ben is a Buddhist festival dedicated to honouring deceased ancestors with offerings and prayers.
September:
• Temperature: Gradually transitioning to cooler temperatures, with occasional rainfall.
• Reasons to Visit: Experience the end of the wet season and the beginning of cooler, drier weather.
• Cities to Visit: Pursat for floating villages, and Kampong Chhnang for pottery workshops.
• Events and Festivals: Ancestor's Day, a Buddhist festival dedicated to honouring deceased ancestors with offerings and prayers.
October:
• Temperature: Comfortable temperatures ranging from mid-20s°C to low 30s°C.
• Reasons to Visit: Enjoy the start of the dry season, with clear skies and cooler weather.
• Cities to Visit: Siem Reap for temple exploration and Kep for seafood delights.
• Events and Festivals: Water Festival (Bon Om Touk), a major celebration featuring boat races, cultural performances, and festive activities along rivers.
November:
• Temperature: Pleasant weather with temperatures similar to October.
• Reasons to Visit: Experience comfortable temperatures and clear skies, perfect for outdoor adventures and sightseeing.
• Cities to Visit: Phnom Penh for historical sites and Sihanoukville for beach relaxation.
• Events and Festivals: Cambodia Independence Day commemorates the country's independence from France with parades and ceremonies.
December:
• Temperature: Mild to cool temperatures, ranging from mid-20s°C to low 30s°C.
• Reasons to Visit: Welcome to the holiday season with pleasant weather and festive celebrations.
• Cities to Visit: Siem Reap for temple exploration and Koh Kong for eco-tourism adventures.
• Events and Festivals: Christmas celebrations in major cities, marked by festive decorations, street markets, and cultural performances.
Conclusion
Deciding when to visit Cambodia hinges on your preferences and desired experiences. From the bustling streets of Phnom Penh to the tranquil shores of Sihanoukville, each season unveils unique wonders. Remember to secure international travel insurance to safeguard your trip against unforeseen circumstances, allowing you to explore Cambodia's treasures with peace of mind.
FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit Cambodia?
Optimal from October to March for pleasant weather.
2. Is travel insurance necessary?
Yes, for medical emergencies and trip protection.
3. Is Cambodia Safe?
Generally, yes, but standard precautions are advised.
4. What are the packing essentials?
Lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and rain gear.
5. Which are the must-visit places?
Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, Kampot, and Kep
Disclaimer The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.