Best Time to Visit Cambodia: Month-by-Month Guide (2026)
Quick answer
The best overall time to visit Cambodia is November through February, when the dry season brings cooler, more comfortable temperatures and manageable humidity — ideal for exploring Angkor Wat on foot. March to May turns hot and dry, while June through October is the rainy season, which floods the temple moats beautifully and comes with thinner crowds and cheaper flights.
Compare live fares to Cambodia →
Cambodia's three seasons
Cambodia has a tropical monsoon climate split into three practical windows: cool-dry (November–February), hot-dry (March–May), and wet (June–October). Each has a different feel for sightseeing, especially around the Angkor temple complex near Siem Reap.
Month-by-month overview
| Months | Season | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| November–February | Cool, dry | Most comfortable temperatures, busiest and priciest months |
| March–May | Hot, dry | Very hot, especially April; fewer tourists, decent prices |
| June–August | Early wet | Regular afternoon rain, lush landscapes, lower prices |
| September–October | Peak wet | Heaviest rainfall, possible flooding in low-lying areas, cheapest fares |
Best time for Angkor Wat
December and January offer the most pleasant conditions for temple-hopping — cooler mornings and lower humidity make the walking and climbing far more comfortable. If you don't mind heat and want fewer crowds at sunrise, the shoulder months of February and March are a reasonable trade-off.
Best time for lower prices and fewer crowds
- June through September sees the fewest tourists and the lowest hotel and flight prices.
- The wet season's rain is usually a short, heavy afternoon burst rather than an all-day washout, leaving mornings free for sightseeing.
- Late December and Khmer New Year in mid-April are the busiest and most expensive stretches — book well ahead if traveling then.
What to pack depending on season
For the cool-dry season, bring a light layer for early mornings and evenings. For the hot-dry season, prioritize breathable fabrics, sun protection, and hydration. For the wet season, pack a compact rain jacket or umbrella and quick-dry clothing, since downpours are brief but heavy.
Getting there
Most international travelers fly into Phnom Penh (PNH) or Siem Reap (SAI), with Siem Reap sitting closest to Angkor Wat. Compare both airports and connection options on a metasearch, and use a live flight tracker to monitor your inbound leg if you're on a tight temple-tour schedule.
Frequently asked questions
What is the coolest month to visit Cambodia?
December and January are the coolest months, with daytime temperatures often in the high 20s Celsius and comfortable evenings.
Is the rainy season a good time to visit Angkor Wat?
Yes — the rainy season fills the moats and reservoirs around Angkor, making for greener grounds and dramatic skies, with fewer crowds and lower prices.
What is the hottest month in Cambodia?
April is usually the hottest month, with temperatures regularly exceeding 35°C (95°F) and high humidity just before the rains arrive.
When are flights to Cambodia cheapest?
Fares are typically lowest during the wetter months of June through September, outside major holidays.
The bottom line
Choose November to February for the most comfortable sightseeing weather, or aim for the wet season if you'd rather have thinner crowds and lower prices and don't mind an afternoon shower. Compare fares to Phnom Penh and Siem Reap on ScanFlyGo and check popular routes before you book.
Some links on ScanFlyGo are affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Prices and seasonal patterns are general guidance and can vary year to year.