Best Time to Visit Cambodia

Did you know? More than 2 million foreign tourists come to Cambodia’s Angkor Wat temple every year. The dry season, from December to March, lets you see this ancient site without rain. But it’s also the busiest time.

You might enjoy your visit more if you go in the less crowded times. That’s during the shoulder seasons or in the low season. You’ll see the temples with fewer people and stunning lighting.

Finding the best time to visit Cambodia really depends on what you love. If you’re into culture, relaxing on the beach, or saving money, there’s a sweet spot for you. The country’s seasonal changes allow for different travel experiences throughout the year. Whether you visit for the culture, the outdoor adventures, or just to unwind, Cambodia has something for everyone.

Key Takeaways

The dry season from December to March is the most popular time to visit Cambodia, with pleasant weather for exploring the temples.
Visiting at the start or end of the wet season (May-June, October-November) can offer fewer crowds and dramatic lighting at Angkor Wat.
The dry season from November to April is ideal for beach holidays along Cambodia’s southern coast.
The low season from April to June and September to October provides opportunities for budget travelers to take advantage of discounted hotel rates.
Cambodia’s diverse climate and calendar of events ensure there is an ideal time for travelers to visit, whether they’re seeking cultural immersion, outdoor adventures, or a relaxing beach vacation.

Understanding Cambodia’s Distinct Seasons

Cambodia is known for having two main seasons that bring different experiences. The dry season runs from November to May. Then, the wet season starts from June and ends in October.

The Dry Season (November – May)

The dry season is when most people visit Cambodia. The weather is cooler with blue skies. This makes it perfect for seeing the country’s famous temples and scenery. In February to May, temperatures can go above 104°F (40°C). Yet, they are usually nice for exploring.

The Wet Season (June – October)

In the wet season, there’s more rain due to the southwest monsoon. It often pours for a short time in the late afternoon. However, the land becomes very green. Also, hotels and resorts in Cambodia often have lower prices during this season. This is to bring in more visitors.

Another source also talks about these seasons. It says the dry season means “clear blue skies.” In comparison, the wet season makes the place “lush and green.” This variety lets visitors pick the perfect time to see Cambodia.

Best Time to Visit Cambodia’s Iconic Angkor Wat

Exploring Angkor Wat in Cambodia is amazing, but choosing the right time is key. The high season, between November and March, attracts many visitors. It offers dry, pleasant weather and cool temperatures. However, more people visit, making the temples crowded.

The High Season (November – March)

In the high season, from November to March, Angkor Wat is at its best. The mild weather is perfect for exploring the vast temple area. The clear skies make it great for taking photos of Angkor Wat’s beauty and the landscape around it.

The Shoulder Season (July – August)

The shoulder season, between July and August, has its benefits too. While it’s the wet season, there are fewer tourists. Plus, hotels may lower their prices to draw in visitors. This makes it a good time for a quieter and more budget-friendly trip.

But, during the shoulder season, the weather can surprise you. Expect more rain and hotter days. It’s smart to pack taking this into account, ensuring your visit to Angkor Wat is pleasant.

Angkor Wat

Cambodia’s Low Season: Prime for Discounts

The high season in Cambodia is from November to April. Yet, the low season spanning from April to June and September to October can be perfect for saving money. During these times, accommodation places offer big discounts, mentioned by the third source.

April – June: Scorching Heat

From April to June, Cambodia is very hot, reaching over 104°F (40°C). Even with this heat, everything is green and beautiful. Plus, there are fewer people at the famous temples, giving visitors a calmer experience.

This time is the low season, which means hotels are cheaper. Additionally, they often have special deals and offers for guests.

September – October: Rainy Days

September and October see a lot of rain in Cambodia. The weather can be unpredictable. However, the beauty of the country shines during this ‘green season’.

The second source points out that this period is great for seeing a lush Cambodia with fewer crowds. Just like in April to June, hotels and resorts offer lower prices to bring in guests.

For those who love exploring temples, relaxing on beaches, or diving into local culture, now is a great time. With discounts and fewer visitors, a trip to Cambodia can be both affordable and unforgettable.

You can also read: What to See at the Taj Mahal

Best Time to Visit Cambodia for Festivals and Events

Cambodia is rich in cultural traditions, making its festivals special. The third source gives a detailed look at the main celebrations. It helps in planning a trip to see these events.

Cambodian New Year (April)

Cambodian New Year, or Chaul Chnam Khmer, happens in mid-April. It lasts three days. Cambodians visit temples, clean their houses, and give each other gifts. Joining in these activities lets visitors learn more about Cambodian life and traditions.

Water Festival (November)

The Water Festival, or Bon Om Tuk, marks a special time. It’s held when the Tonle Sap River changes direction. This change is important for the country’s farming. At the festival, watch boat races and enjoy other fun activities.

Angkor Photo Festival (November/December)

Siem Reap hosts the Angkor Photo Festival in November or December. It attracts fans of photography from everywhere. There are shows, workshops, and talks. It’s a great chance to dig into Cambodian culture through photos.

These events celebrate Cambodia and its unique traditions. They let travelers see the country’s colorful culture. Whether you like the Cambodian New Year, the Water Festival, or the Angkor Photo Festival, there’s a perfect time to visit.

Month-by-Month Guide for Traveling in Cambodia

Cambodia has different seasons and events all year. The third source’s detailed guide shows that the best time to visit is from January to March. This period is lively with celebrations like Chinese New Year and Vietnamese New Year. It’s a perfect time to see the country at its most festive.

From April to June, the low season begins with monsoon rains. Despite the heat, reaching over 104°F (40°C), it’s a great time for those on a budget. You can get cheaper hotel rates and enjoy more quiet visits to famous spots.

July to September brings more backpackers and families due to summer holidays. October to December is when the rains stop, and the weather becomes ideal. Many festivals happen then, like Cambodian New Year and the Angkor Photo Festival. This is the top time to explore Cambodia’s culture and scenic beauty.

Month	Highlights	Weather	Crowds
January – March	Peak tourist season, Chinese New Year, Vietnamese New Year	Dry, mild temperatures	Crowded
April – June	Start of monsoon rains, low season	Temperatures over 104°F (40°C)	Fewer crowds
July – September	Increase in backpackers and families	Rainy season	Moderate crowds
October – December	End of rainy season, Cambodian New Year, Water Festival, Angkor Photo Festival	Dry, windy season	Ideal conditions

It’s valuable to know about Cambodia’s seasons and events for a great trip. No matter the time of year, there’s much to enjoy. Cambodia is perfect for cultural experiences, nature getaways, and beach breaks. Every season welcomes visitors to explore its beauty and traditions.

Cambodia Month-by-Month

The best time to visit Cambodia varies based on what you want to do. Maybe you want to see the famous temple complexes, relax on the beaches, or explore on a budget. There are good times to visit for each interest.

For Temple Exploration

The high season, from November to March, is great for exploring temples like Angkor Wat. The weather is nice and there’s not too much rain. But, many people visit during this time, so it might be crowded.

Another good time is the shoulder season from July to August. Though it might rain, there will be fewer visitors. Plus, hotels are usually cheaper.

For Beach Holidays

If you want to see Cambodia’s beautiful beaches, go from November to April. This is the dry season. You’ll have clear weather for sunbathing and water sports.

For Budget Travelers

For those on a budget, consider visiting from April to June and September to October. It’s the low season, so prices are lower. Weather may not be great, but you’ll save money and avoid crowds.

Conclusion

The best time to head to Cambodia changes depending on what you love. The dry season from November to April draws many visitors. It’s perfect for touring famous sites like Angkor Wat. Yet, this time comes with lots of tourists and higher costs.

If you want to avoid the crowd, consider going from July to August. The low season from April to June and September to October is also an option. During these times, you might get cheaper deals and see fewer people.

No matter when you go, Cambodia’s story, beauty, and lively culture will catch your heart. You’ll have memories that last a lifetime.

FAQ

What is the best time to visit Cambodia?

The best time to visit Cambodia depends on what you like. The dry season is from November to April. This is when many go because the weather is nice. You can explore temples like Angkor Wat and relax on the beaches. But, it’s also when there are a lot of people and prices are higher. The time with fewer tourists and lower prices is during the rainy season from April to June and September to October. You can see beautiful landscapes and join local festivals then.

What are the two distinct seasons in Cambodia?

Cambodia has two main weather patterns – a dry season and a wet season. The dry season lasts from November to May. This is when it’s cooler and not as rainy, great for seeing the temples. The wet season is from June to October. Rain often comes in the evening but many discounts are available. The country becomes lush and there are fewer tourists.

What is the best time to visit Angkor Wat?

The best time for Angkor Wat is from November to March. The weather is nice and cool. But, many people visit at this time. For fewer crowds, consider July to August. It has less rain, and hotels may be cheaper. You might also like the start or end of the wet season (May, October). With fewer visitors, you can enjoy the unique weather and light.

When is the low season in Cambodia?

The low season is from April to June and September to October. It gets very hot in April and May, over 104°F (40°C). September and October are the wettest. Even though the weather is not great, many places offer discounts. This time is good for budget travelers. The land is green and there are fewer people at the sites.

What are some of the major festivals and events in Cambodia?

The biggest festival is the Cambodian New Year in mid-April. This three-day event involves temple offerings and cleaning homes. There’s also the Water Festival in October or November, marking the river’s flow change. It has boat races and fun by the river. Additionally, Siem Reap hosts the Angkor Photo Festival in November or December. It has photo exhibits and workshops.

What is a month-by-month guide for traveling in Cambodia?

The busiest time is from January to March due to the New Year celebrations. April to June is when the low season starts. It gets very hot and the rains begin. July to September is popular with backpackers and families. The weather is cooler but still warm. October to December is when the rains stop and the best weather comes in. It’s the peak time for visiting Cambodia.

Best Time to Visit Cambodia – Ideal Seasons & Weather