There's no need to introduce Cambodia. It has long been one of the most well-liked vacation spots. Every year, millions of tourists flock to Cambodia for its numerous monuments that commemorate the nation's stormy history, its rich culture, its welcoming people, its delectable cuisine, and, of course, the climate encourages tourists to come! To learn more about Cambodia's entry regulations, visit our Cambodia Entry Regulations article.
Climate and Weather in Cambodia
Cambodia is situated near Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam on the Indochina Peninsula and the Gulf of Thailand. The total land area of the country is 181,035 square kilometers. The Mekong Plain covers the majority of Cambodia; Tonle Sap Lake is located in its western portion, and the Mekong River flows through the eastern portion. The mountainous regions reach as far north as the Dangrek Mountains and as far west as (the Cardamom Mountains, and Elephant Mountains).
Cambodia has two seasons, dry from November to May and rainy (wet) from June to October, similar to many other Asian nations.
The characterization of Cambodia's climate is a tropical monsoon, influenced by cyclical variations in air pressure across Central Asia. From June to October, pressure decreases, and humid air from the ocean moves ashore, delivering monsoon rains to Cambodia and other nations in the region. Air pressure rises from November to the end of May, bringing dry, chilly air through Asia and resulting in dry weather. This is the most popular time for tourists as the weather is mild and pleasant.
What do you think about celebrating the New Year on a Cambodian beach while sipping on a glass of champagne? If you're going to spend New Year's Eve in Cambodia, keep in mind that you'll be there during the busiest travel season, which means higher prices and more visitors atmajor tourist spots like Angkor than other times of the year. What can we say, this is the most beautiful time with cool temperatures, low humidity, and little rainfall.
What should you pack for the trip? Swimwear is required! You simply cannot resist taking a dip and unwinding on the Gulf of Thailand. Don't forget to bring a hat and sunscreen. For cooler evenings, it is advisable to bring a light sweater and comfortable shoes.
The hottest months in Cambodia are April and May. Regional variations in the temperature range from 26 to 36 degrees Celsius. The air is rather humid. The wet season is almost here. The frequency of rain is increasing, but it usually falls in the afternoon.
Now that it is slow tourism season, you can anticipate more affordable pricing for accommodations and transport. For this time period, the Angkor Complex will be less crowded. However, the heat during the afternoon is quite irritating and might affect toddlers, children, or the elderly.
It is wise to pack a swimsuit to cool off after a day of sightseeing under the sun. Don't forget to bring sunscreen to protect you from the intense sunrays. We also recommend light clothing to deal with the tropical heat and occasional rain.
In Cambodia, the rainy season starts in June. Rainfall happens infrequently during its beginning and end. The average temperature is high then, between 30 and 31 degrees Celsius. Although slightly cooler, Siem Reap in northern Cambodia is still very warm. Although July and August see the most rainfall, it is typically sunny until 2 or 3 in the afternoon. In Cambodia, the monsoon season is referred to as the low tourist season.
Heavy downpours can occasionally create transportation issues, particularly in less developed regions of the nation where there are no paved roads. However, the best time to take in the splendor of Cambodian nature is during the rainy season. At this time of year, Tonle Sap attracts the largest number of tourists with its lush, green forest.
June, July, August, September, and October is ideal for you to avoid crowds and explore the country extensively. This is also the season to see Angkor Wat's moats filled with water, creating a unique effect that cannot be found in any other time period.
We highly recommend waterproof clothing for Cambodia this season. A portable poncho or a raincoat is an essential to staying dry and safe during this time. You should also prioritize light, breathable, cotton clothing so that you can travel comfortably around Cambodia. Keep in mind that when visiting temples, your knees and shoulders should be covered at all times.
November marks the start of the cool and dry season. This is the best time of the year to visit Cambodia, with mild temperatures and low humidity. Especially for those wanting to visit the eastern regions like Ratanakiri or Mondulkiri to admire the tropical lush forests, mountains, and waterfalls.
Starting early November is the dry season. It is among the greatest times of year to travel to Cambodia, particularly if you want to see the eastern regions like Ratanakiri or Mondulkiri, which are noted for their lush forests, mountains, and waterfalls. The mild weather will undoubtedly make it more enjoyable. Furthermore, there's also the annual Water Festival in November, a great opportunity to dig deeper into the Cambodian culture and custom.
Phnom Penh (South Central Cambodia)
Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, lies on the southern region of the nation, on the Mekong Plain.
There are only minor daytime variations in the region's high year-round air temperatures. The likelihood of rain is often very low (and lowest in January, February, and March). The driest and wettest months in the capital of Cambodia are January and September, respectively. In Phnom Penh, the hottest months are March, April, and May. Temperatures can even get to 35.3 ° C in the middle of April.
The peak travel months in Phnom Penh are January, May, and July, with August seeing the least amount of international visitors. Phnom Penh may be visited all year round, however, the best time to go is from November to June.
Siem Reap, Angkor, and Tonle Sap (North-West Cambodia)
The mysterious city of Siem Reap, located in northwest Cambodia, is regarded as the entrance to Angkor, Asia's greatest archaeological site. Tourists can have fun at the neighboring, gorgeous Tonlé Sap lake by visiting the well-known villages on the water, in addition to bringing fertility to the soil nearby.
It has a milder climate than central Cambodia, with somewhat lower temperatures and less precipitation. It's generally agreed upon that the finest times to visit Siem Reap and the surrounding area are from October to July. The hottest months will be March, April, and May, with the highest average temperature hitting 35°C. The least quantity of rain falls during the months of December, January, and February. January is the driest month, while August and September are the wettest months.
Kratie, Koh Trong, Mondol Kiri (East Cambodia)
The regions east of the Mekong are less visited by visitors than the aforementioned Angkor and Siem Reap. Since the area is mostly mountainous and forested, it can become quite cool there (for the tropics).
July, August, and September are the least ideal months to visit eastern Cambodia; June and October are transitional months with variable weather; and from November to May, the region has a wonderful atmosphere.
Koh Rong, Kep, Kampot (Cambodian coast)
Koh Rong, Kep, Kampot (Cambodian coast)
The coastal areas of Cambodia receive somewhat higher rainfall and humidity compared to the inland regions. For an ideal visit, plan your trip to the Cambodian coast from December through May. Taking the weather in Kep, a coastal town near the Vietnamese border, as an example, this period offers pleasant conditions. While October and November can also provide favorable weather, the months of June, July, August, and September are best avoided for a visit due to less favorable conditions.
