Cambodia
Cambodia · Asia
Cambodia – What you should know
Cambodia has a tropical monsoon climate with a pronounced dry season (November to April) and an intense rainy season (May to October). Angkor Wat and the temple complexes around Siem Reap are most pleasant to explore during the dry season: temperatures of typically 28–34°C, little rain, and the historic structures reflected in clear moats.
The rainy season has its own appeal, however: the landscape turns green, Tonlé Sap Lake swells to six times its dry-season area and floods the surrounding lowlands. This unique ecosystem attracts nature lovers and photographers who want to document the floating villages and the rich birdlife.
The hottest time in Cambodia is March to April, just before the monsoon begins: the monthly average high temperature reaches 34°C, and high humidity makes intensive sightseeing tours exhausting. Early morning (before 9 a.m.) is the most pleasant time to visit Angkor Wat during this period — and the sunrise over the temple spires is one of the most memorable travel experiences in Southeast Asia.
Climate Overview
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
MAXMax Temp | 31° | 33° | 35° | 36° | 35° | 34° | 33° | 33° | 32° | 31° | 32° | 31° |
MINMin Temp | 22° | 23° | 25° | 27° | 27° | 26° | 26° | 26° | 26° | 26° | 24° | 22° |
☀️Sunshine | 9h | 9h | 9h | 9h | 8h | 7h | 6h | 7h | 5h | 6h | 8h | 8h |
🌧Rain Days | 2d13mm | 2d13mm | 4d32mm | 9d76mm | 14d119mm | 14d114mm | 17d149mm | 17d146mm | 20d237mm | 15d171mm | 7d62mm | 2d17mm |
Best travel time
The best time to visit Cambodia is January, February, March, November, and December. In summer, temperatures rise to 35°C; in winter they can drop to 22°C. During the best travel months, the sun shines up to 8 hours per day — ideal for beach and outdoor activities.
Travel Tips
In March, April, and May, temperatures can exceed 34°C — during physical activity or with children, it's best to stick to morning and evening hours.
April offers great weather in Cambodia with fewer tourists and lower prices — ideal for those who want to avoid the peak season crowds.
Events & Festivals
April
- Khmer Neujahr (Choul Chnam Thmey)13.–15. April
Das wichtigste Fest Kambodschas mit dreitägigem Feiern in Tempeln und auf Straßen. In Siem Reap werden bunte Sandtürme auf den Tempelgeländen von Angkor gebaut und traditionelle Spiele gespielt.
November
- Bon Om Touk – Wasserfestivalvariabel (Vollmond im November, 3 Tage)
Kambodschas wichtigstes Volksfest feiert die jährliche Umkehr des Tonle-Sap-Flusses. Auf dem Fluss finden spektakuläre Bootsrennen statt; Abends erhellen Laternenboote das Wasser.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the best time to visit Cambodia?
- The best time to visit Cambodia is January, February, March, November, and December. These months offer the most favourable combination of sunshine, temperatures, and low rainfall.
- How warm does it get in Cambodia?
- In summer, temperatures in Cambodia can reach up to 35°C. In winter, they may drop to 22°C.
- How much rain does Cambodia get?
- Cambodia has a relatively even rainfall pattern with an average of 10 rain days per month. The driest months are January, February, March, November, and December.
Best Travel Time by Vacation Type
🏖️
Beach Holiday
Warm, sunny, little rain
JanFebDec
🏙️
City Trip
Pleasantly mild, not too hot
JanNovDec
