Cambodia has a typical tropical monsoon climate with two distinct seasons: wet and dry. The climate is hot and humid year-round, although there are some variations between different regions. Here is an overview of Cambodia’s weather and climate, including the best times to visit different parts of the country.
Cambodia Weather overview
Cambodia is located in Southeast Asia near the Equator, giving it a predominantly hot and humid climate all year round. The seasonal variations are more distinguished by rainfall patterns rather than temperature changes.
The average year-round temperature ranges from 22°C to 35°C (72°F to 95°F) across most of the country. Cambodia’s coastal areas along the Gulf of Thailand tend to be slightly cooler than inland regions.
There are two monsoon seasons that delineate the climate:
- The southwest monsoon from May to October ushers in the wet season with the highest rainfall.
- The northeast monsoon from November to April brings in the dry season marked by little rainfall.
The transition months of April/May and October/November see some unpredictable weather as the monsoon patterns shift.
Climate zones of Cambodia
While Cambodia’s climate is generally hot and tropical throughout, some variations exist between the central lowlands, mountainous areas, and coasts:
The Dry Season in Cambodia
The dry season spans from November to April and is characteristically sunny and dry across Cambodia. However, the Mekong River and Tonle Sap regions in the central plains remain lush and green during this period.
- In the low-lying central and southern plains, temperatures range from 28°C to 35°C (82°F to 95°F) during the dry months. Humidity levels are lower, making this a comfortable time to visit.
- The coastal areas along the Gulf of Thailand are slightly cooler during the dry season, with average temperatures around 26°C to 32°C (79°F to 90°F).
- In the northern highlands, high altitude areas like Sen Monorom and Banlung are cooler, with average temperatures of 21°C to 29°C (70°F to 84°F). Nights can get quite chilly.
- Rainfall is minimal, although some afternoon thunderstorms can bring occasional showers in March and April as the monsoons transition.
The Wet Season in Cambodia
The southwest monsoon brings the wet season to Cambodia from May to October. It is hot and humid with frequent heavy downpours.
- May and June: The weather starts to get hotter, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). Short rains and occasional thunderstorms can be expected.
- July to September: This period is considered the peak of the wet season, with heavy rainfall and high humidity. Temperatures remain between 25°C and 35°C (77°F to 95°F).
- October: The rainfall decreases towards the end of the wet season, while temperatures start to cool down slightly.
It’s worth noting that Cambodia’s weather can vary from region to region. Coastal regions, such as Sihanoukville and Kep, may experience slightly different weather patterns, including a more prolonged wet season with heavier rainfall.
- In Phnom Penh and the lowlands, average temperatures remain high around 29°C to 34°C (84°F to 93°F). Humidity levels are oppressively high, often over 80%.
- The country’s eastern provinces get the highest rainfall, seeing sustained heavy rains from August to October. Total rainfall averages between 2000mm to 4000mm annually here.
- Cambodia’s south and west coasts get slightly lower rainfall, averaging 1200mm to 1800mm per year. But they remain hot and humid with temperatures around 28°C (82°F).
- Upland areas continue to be cooler in the wet season, with temps of 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 88°F). But rain remains frequent, sometimes causing flooding issues in the highlands.
- Tropical storms and typhoons may impact coastal Cambodia between July to October, but they are usually weakened after crossing the mainland.
When is the best time to visit Cambodia?
The ideal times to visit Cambodia depends on one’s interests and tolerance for hot, humid weather:
- Dry season (Nov-Apr) – The most popular period to visit due to the comfortable temperatures and minimal rain. High season is from late Nov to Feb. March and April still have good weather before the heat picks up.
- Wet season (May-Oct) – For budget travelers looking to save on costs, the wet months offer cheaper accommodations and fewer crowds. The rains peak in September/October which is toughest for activities. But May to August still have stretches of good weather between downpours.
- September/October – Avoid these peak rainy months if you plan lots of temple visits or outdoor activities. Roads may flood and some attractions may close temporarily.
- Khmer New Year (mid-Apr) – Around the Cambodian New Year in mid-April, temperatures soar and it’s incredibly busy/expensive. Perhaps best avoided unless you want to join the celebrations.
Cambodia Weather by month
Here is a more detailed breakdown of Cambodia’s weather on a month-by-month basis:
January
January falls in the peak of Cambodia’s dry season. Expect hot, sunny days and comfortable temperatures.
- Average temperatures: 27°C (81°F)
- Rainfall: 15mm total
January is a popular month to visit to enjoy the dry weather. It’s peak season so tourist sites are crowded and rates are highest. Book accommodation early this month.
February
February is similarly hot and dry across Cambodia. It’s still considered high tourist season.
- Average temperatures: 28°C (82°F)
- Rainfall: 20mm total
February has excellent weather for temple visits and outdoor activities before temperatures start rising towards March.
March
March in Cambodia signals the start of the hot season as temperatures begin rising steadily. It remains predominantly dry but with the occasional storm.
- Average temperatures: 30°C (86°F)
- Rainfall: 30mm total
March is shoulder season – a good time for value deals. The weather is getting hotter but still dry and manageable for sightseeing.
April
April is miserably hot in Cambodia. Temperatures hit their peak and humidity rises ahead of the monsoon.
- Average temperatures: 33°C (91°F)
- Rainfall: 60mm total
April also sees huge Khmer New Year celebrations mid-month” sending accommodation rates skyrocketing. Unless joining the festivities, April is best avoided.
May
May sees scorching temperatures at the tail-end of the hot season, along with increasingly frequent downpours as the monsoon arrives.
- Average temperatures: 32°C (90°F)
- Rainfall: 130mm total
By late May, the rains provide occasional relief from the heat. Tourism is low, so May offers cheaper rates before the wet season peak.
June
June welcomes the wet southwest monsoon to Cambodia. Expect high humidity, frequent rain, and continuing heat.
- Average temperatures: 30°C (86°F)
- Rainfall: 200mm total
June still has stretches of good weather between the downpours. A relatively uncrowded time to visit, with low tourism this month.
July
July is firmly in the wet season, with persistent heavy rainfall and overcast skies across Cambodia. Flooding can occur in poorly drained areas.
- Average temperatures: 29°C (84°F)
- Rainfall: 250mm total
Rural roads become muddy and some remote temples may be inaccessible. But hotel rates are at their lowest, so July appeals to budget travellers.
August
August is the peak of Cambodia’s rainy season. Torrential downpours are a daily occurrence, with potential flooding.
- Average temperatures: 29°C (84°F)
- Rainfall: 300mm total
It’s a tough time for outdoor activities. Yet Siem Reap remains relatively dry if you plan temple visits. Travel deals abound if you don’t mind wet weather.
September
September continues the wet season weather, with frequent heavy rainfall across the country.
- Average temperatures: 29°C (84°F)
- Rainfall: 280mm total
Some minor flooding may continue in the Mekong floodplain region. September has the fewest visitors, so hotels and flights are cheap.
October
While rainfall remains high in October, temperatures start to drop and rains may lessen by late October in some parts as the monsoon ends.
- Average temperatures: 29°C (84°F)
- Rainfall: 200mm total
Persistent rains can cause travel disruptions. But crowds and prices are at lows for the year, ideal for budget travelers who aren’t bothered by wet weather.
November
November brings a return of sunny, dry days as Cambodia’s wet season comes to an end. Temperatures are cooling as well.
- Average temperatures: 28°C (82°F)
- Rainfall: 70mm total
With the improved weather, tourism starts picking up again in November. It’s a transition month with lower rates before peak season.
December
December falls in the peak of Cambodia’s dry season. Days are sunny, humidity is low, and temperatures are comfortable.
- Average temperatures: 27°C (81°F)
- Rainfall: 20mm total
December starts the busy tourist high season, so book hotels well in advance. The weather is ideal for all activities. A great time for festive celebrations too.
Conclusion
To summarize, Cambodia has a tropical monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures remain generally hot year-round.
The dry months of November to April offer the best weather with sunny skies and minimal rain. This peak tourist season sees more crowds and higher prices however.
The wet southwest monsoon brings humidity and frequent downpours between May and October. This low season has cheaper rates and fewer tourists, appealing to budget travelers who don’t mind wet weather.
Timing your Cambodia trip depends on your interests, budget, and tolerance for heat/rain. But the kingdom provides fascinating attractions and warm hospitality throughout the year.
