Written by Charlotte Lock
Posted, 1st December 2025
If you’re planning a trip and wondering when the best time to visit Cambodia is, we’ve got you covered!
Cambodia is one of our favourite destinations, from the ancient temples of Angkor to the bustling streets of Phnom Penh and the peaceful countryside in between, there’s something for all types of travellers.
While it is a destination that can be visited all year round, the time of your visit can make a big difference to your experience, as the weather changes quite a lot throughout the year.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best time to visit Cambodia, helping you enjoy the sights comfortably, avoid extreme heat or heavy rain, and make the most of your adventure.
Let’s get into it!
📣 Quick answer: Cambodia is a year-round destination that is full of culture, beautiful landscapes and plenty of things to do. While Cambodia can be explored at any time of year, the best time to visit is from November to February, when the weather is dry, sunny, and comfortably warm – perfect for sightseeing, temple visits, and exploring without intense heat. However, should you want to skip the crowds and don’t mind a bit of rain, the wet season is a perfectly good option!
Best Time To Visit Cambodia
No matter when you visit Cambodia, you’ll find warm temperatures and plenty to do – but the experience can vary greatly depending on the time of year.
The country’s tropical climate means Cambodia has two main seasons: dry and wet. While it’s easy to quickly opt for the dry season, each one has its own unique charm, influencing the landscapes, festivals, and crowds – so it’s worth considering travelling at other times of year.
Here’s a brief rundown of the weather you can expect each month in Cambodia:
- Nov-Feb: Cambodia’s weather is at its most pleasant during these months, with cooler, drier weather that brings clear skies and comfortable temperatures. This time of year is ideal for sightseeing around Angkor Wat, cycling through the countryside, or exploring Phnom Penh’s temples and markets. However, it is also the peak travel season, so expect more visitors and slightly higher prices.
- Mar-May: The heat begins to build big time during these months in Cambodia, and the landscape turns dry and dusty. Daytime temperatures can climb above 40°C, making outdoor activities tougher, but this period is great for lazy days by the coast in places like Sihanoukville or the islands, where sea breezes bring some sanctuary from the heat.
- Jun-Oct: Cambodia enters its rainy season during the West’s summer. Showers are very frequent during the wet season, but they are usually short-lived, leaving behind a fresher feeling and cooler evenings. These months are a good time of year to see the countryside at its most vibrant, visit local villages like Totear Village and Tromeng Village, and – as a bonus – take advantage of lower prices and quieter attractions.
Best Time To Visit Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat is the jewel in Cambodia’s crown and is often the number one attraction that backpackers set their sights on when travelling around the country.
The best time to visit Angkor Wat is during the cool and dry season between November and March, when the temple is set against a backdrop of clear blue skies and pleasant temperatures. If you want to avoid the crowds and inflated prices, November is ideal – you’ll enjoy the amazing weather before hordes of backpackers and group tours arrive.
The temple was intentionally designed so that the rising sun comes up directly behind its central towers, creating a spectacular sight at dawn. Depending on the time of year, the sun appears slightly to the right or left of the main spire, meaning every sunrise at Angkor Wat offers a slightly different perspective.
Meaning that no matter when you go, the most magical time to experience Angkor Wat is at sunrise. Watching the first light of day illuminate the temple’s spires is an unforgettable moment – but it’s also the busiest.
Arrive early to claim a good viewing spot, and if you’re travelling during peak season (December to February), consider joining a group tour. Our local guides arrange tickets in advance, allowing us to skip the 4 a.m. ticket queue and head straight to the temple.
One important thing to remember about visiting Angkor Wat is that it is a religious and cultural site, over a tourist attraction, so you must dress appropriately during your visit, making sure to cover your knees and shoulders.
Best Time To Visit Phnom Penh
Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh, can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time to visit is between November and February, when the weather is dry, sunny, and comfortably warm. With temperatures around 25-30°C and low humidity, it’s perfect for visiting Wat Phnom, wandering through local markets, or enjoying a local-style dinner at one of the city’s night markets.
From March to May, the city becomes extremely hot, with temperatures climbing above 35°C. Sightseeing can be uncomfortable in the midday sun and early afternoon, so it’s best to plan indoor activities during the day and head out early in the morning or evening.
The rainy season, from June to October, brings intense showers, but they often don’t last long and help to break up that icky feeling. These months are a lot quieter and cheaper time to visit, with fewer crowds and better deals on hotels.
Overall, November to February offers the most enjoyable weather and atmosphere for exploring Phnom Penh and landmarks like Wat Phnom.
Best Time To Visit Siem Reap
Siem Reap is one of those places that rarely slows down. Backpackers, culture lovers, and temple explorers arrive all year round to soak up the energy of Cambodia’s most famous city – but the time of year you visit can really shape your trip.
From November to March, Siem Reap settles into its dry season. The days are sunny and comfortable, with temperatures usually sitting between 25°C and 30°C – perfect for riding rickshaws between temples, joining a street food tour, or exploring Pub Street and the Old Market without breaking too much of a sweat.
Many travellers consider December and January the sweet spot for visiting Siem Reap: rainfall is minimal, the air feels fresh, and you’ll get bright skies for great photos.
Outside the dry season, Siem Reap takes on a different kind of beauty. From May to October, rain showers are pretty constant, so if you’re not a fan of humidity or muddy roads, it’s best to give this time of year a miss.
Best Time To Visit Cambodia Weather
The best time to visit Cambodia to make the most of the best weather is typically between November and February. During these months, the country enjoys clear blue skies, low humidity, and warm but comfortable temperatures that are prime for exploring. It’s the perfect time to wander through Angkor Wat, explore rice fields, or stroll around Phnom Penh’s lively markets.
However, as you might guess, this great weather makes November to February desirable to many travellers, meaning Cambodia is always busiest at this time of year.
If you’re set on avoiding crowds and hunting out good deals, then the wet season shouldn’t be an instant write-off. July to October are the best months of the rainy season to visit Cambodia as it isn’t scorching hot and the humidity begins to drop.
If you’re not a heat-worshipper, then we recommend you skip travelling Cambodia between March and May as temperatures soar up to 40°C.
The heat during these months can make sightseeing uncomfortable, especially around temple sites where there’s little shade. The countryside also becomes dry and dusty, and long journeys can feel exhausting in the intense sun.
Unless you’re planning to spend most of your time by the coast, it’s best to avoid travelling during this period and instead aim for the cooler, more pleasant months earlier or later in the year.
Cheapest Time To Visit Cambodia
While Cambodia is a very cheap country, both if you’re backpacking or travelling with a group, there are times of year that prices drop even further.
The cheapest time to visit Cambodia is during the low season between June to October. This period coincides with the rainy season, so you can expect regular showers, but they rarely last all day.
Some positives are that the countryside becomes lusciously green, and there’s a calm atmosphere that you don’t get during the busier months. With fewer tourists around, hotels and tour companies often lower their prices too, making it much easier to find great deals.
November to April is Cambodia’s dry season, making it the most expensive time to visit, as tourists want to make the most of the good weather. This pushes prices way up for accommodation and transport in some locations.
If you’re looking for a balance between good weather, smaller crowds, and reasonable prices, the months of October and November are ideal. These shoulder months offer a sweet spot where you can enjoy plenty of sunshine without paying peak-season rates or battling too many tour groups.
Cambodia is also usually cheaper around May-July time too, right before the rainy season kicks off – however, it can be very hot, so you’ll likely not be able to do much outside without feeling like you’re melting!
Backpacking and Group Tours in Cambodia
Cambodia is a popular backpacking destination, offering a great mix of culture, history, and adventure at budget-friendly prices. The country is packed with hostels, hotels, guesthouses and homestays that cater perfectly to solo travellers and backpackers.
In places like Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and Kampot it’s easy to make friends due to such a lively social scene. You’ll also find affordable street food – and trust us, it’s delicious! Getting around is easy too – buses and shared taxis connect all the main spots, and renting a scooter is also a super easy and fun way to explore smaller towns or the countryside.
That being said, Cambodia is a lot bigger than most people think. From Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, its about 6 hours.
And if you prefer a bit more structure or don’t want to take on Cambodia alone, then group tours, like ours, are a great option. They take the hassle out of organising transport and accommodation while still giving you a taste of authentic Cambodia.
Many tours combine Cambodia with another Southeast Asian country like Vietnam or Thailand giving you the chance to experience more of the region on one trip. These cross-border itineraries are ideal if you’re short on time but want a well-rounded Southeast Asian adventure.
Whether you’re travelling independently with a backpack or joining a group for a tour experience, Cambodia is easy to navigate, welcoming, and full of unforgettable experiences.
Best Time To Visit Cambodia and Vietnam
Cambodia and Vietnam have similar tropical climates, but Vietnam’s long, narrow shape means weather can vary from north to south. Generally, the best time to visit both countries is from November to February, when temperatures are comfortable, rainfall is low, and humidity is manageable.
Travelling during these months allows you to make the most of outdoor activities such as cycling, trekking, or cruising along the Mekong Delta without the discomfort of extreme heat or heavy rain. However, it’s also the busiest period for tourists, so planning and booking in advance is recommended.
If you’re looking for fewer crowds and lower prices, shoulder months like March and April can work well in Cambodia and southern Vietnam. The weather may be a lot hotter, but it’s still manageable for sightseeing in the mornings and evenings and often comes with great deals on accommodation and tours.
Best Time To Visit Cambodia and Thailand
Cambodia and Thailand both have tropical climates with distinct wet and dry seasons, making November to February the prime time to visit both countries.
During these months, you can enjoy sunny days, mild humidity, and comfortable temperatures that make sightseeing and outdoor adventures far more enjoyable. Cambodia’s temples and cities are easier to explore, while Thailand’s beaches, islands, and cultural sites are at their best.
From March to May, temperatures in both countries climb significantly, often exceeding 35°C. While this is ideal for beach escapes in Thailand, exploring temples or cities in Cambodia can become exhausting in the heat.
Meanwhile, the rainy season from June to October brings frequent showers, lush green landscapes, and lower prices, but it can disrupt travel plans, especially in Cambodia’s countryside or Thailand’s northern regions.
Overall, planning a trip between November and February gives you the best combination of pleasant weather, clear skies, and access to both countries’ highlights, while visiting in the wet season offers a quieter, greener, and more budget-friendly alternative.
FAQs
Below are some commonly asked questions related to the best time to visit Cambodia, along with our expert answers to each question.
Cambodia’s rainy season runs from June to October. During this period, heavy but usually short-lived showers are very common. While it may not sound the most ideal to some travellers, it makes travel a lot quieter and cheaper as a perk. However, it’s good to keep in mind some attractions may be closed or activities cancelled in particularly bad weather.
The ideal time to visit Angkor Wat is also between November and February. Cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall make exploring the complex comfortable and the bright blue skies set the perfect backdrop for beautiful Insta-worthy pictures.
The best time to visit Cambodia is between November and February, when the weather is dry, sunny, and comfortably warm. These months are ideal for sightseeing, exploring temples, and enjoying outdoor activities without the extreme heat of March to May or the heavy downpours of the wet season.
Conclusion
And there you have it – a complete guide to the best time to visit Cambodia!
Cambodia is a destination that is ready to offer amazing experiences no matter when you visit, but planning around the weather can make your trip far more enjoyable.
The period from November to February provides the most comfortable conditions for sightseeing, exploring temples, and enjoying the cities and rural countryside villages.
If you’re willing to brave the occasional rain, the wet season from June to October has advantages in that it offers beautiful landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower prices.
Cambodia is also a great destination to combine with nearby Thailand or Vietnam – like we do on our group tours!
Lastly, enjoy your adventure – you’re in for a treat!
Whether you’re looking to travel solo or bring a friend along for the ride, our group tours in South East Asia & Australia are the perfect balance of culture, adventure, chill time & nightlife. You’ll arrive as strangers and leave as the best of friends.
Here are a few useful links to help with that planning;
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