Understanding the weather patterns can help you plan when is the best time to visit Phnom Penh. In this travel blog, we’ll delve into Phnom Penh’s weather patterns month by month, highlighting the optimal times for activities such as temple exploration, street food indulgence, engaging with the local community, and more.
Phnom Penh Weather By Month
Like most of the other destinations in Cambodia, Phnom Penh’s climate is generally tropical, it tends to be hot year-round with minor variations. The average temperature is between 28 oC and 33oC. This city has four seasons a year:
- Cool and Dry Season: from November to February
- Hot and Dry Season: from March to May
- Hot and Wet Season: between June and August
- Cool and Wet Season: from September to early November.
Let’s dive into Phnom Penh’s weather by month and discover the optimal time for each activity:
January
- Average Temperature: 24°C (75°F)
- Best for: Wandering around temples and exploring historical sites
In January, Phnom Penh experiences pleasant weather with minimal rainfall. It’s an excellent time to visit iconic temples like Wat Phnom and explore historical sites such as the Royal Palace and the National Museum. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich heritage and architectural wonders.
February
- Best for: Communicating with locals and experiencing Khmer culture
- Average Temperature: 26°C (79°F)
February offers similar weather conditions to January, making it an ideal time to interact with locals and learn about Khmer culture. Engage in conversations with friendly Cambodians, visit local markets, and witness traditional ceremonies. This is your chance to experience the essence of Phnom Penh’s vibrant community.
March
- Best for: Enjoying street food and indulging in local cuisine
- Average Temperature: 28°C (82°F)
As the hot season begins, March is a fantastic time to explore Phnom Penh’s street food scene. Savor delicious Khmer dishes, sample exotic fruits, and try local delicacies. The city’s bustling markets and food stalls offer a wide array of flavors and culinary experiences that will tantalize your taste buds.
April
- Best for: Beach activities and water sports in nearby coastal areas
- Average Temperature: 30°C (86°F)
Phnom Penh Weather in April marks the peak of the hot season, making it an excellent time to escape the city and head to the nearby coastal areas for beach activities and water sports. Relax on pristine sandy beaches, dive into crystal-clear waters, and try thrilling water sports like snorkeling or jet skiing.
May
- Best for: Exploring the Royal Palace and indoor attractions
- Average Temperature: 29°C (84°F)
May brings the start of the wet season, characterized by occasional showers. While outdoor activities may be affected, it’s an ideal time to explore indoor attractions such as the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda. Dive into the city’s history, marvel at opulent architecture, and admire precious artifacts.
June
- Best for: Visiting floating villages and experiencing local life
- Average Temperature: 28°C (82°F)
Despite increased rainfall, June presents a unique opportunity to visit the floating villages on the Tonle Sap River. Witness the daily lives of local communities, learn about their traditional fishing methods, and gain insights into their cultural heritage. This immersive experience offers a glimpse into authentic Cambodian rural life.
July
- Best for: Participating in local festivals and celebrations
- Average Temperature: 27°C (81°F)
July continues the wet season, but it doesn’t dampen the festive spirit in Phnom Penh. This month is filled with vibrant local festivals, such as the Bon Om Touk Water Festival. Join the lively celebrations, watch boat races on the river, and witness traditional music and dance performances.
August
- Best for: Exploring museums and art galleries
- Average Temperature: 27°C (81°F)
Despite the rainy weather, August provides an excellent opportunity to dive into Phnom Penh’s vibrant art scene. Visit museums like the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum to gain insights into the country’s tragic history. Explore contemporary art galleries and discover the creative talents of Cambodian artists.
September
- Best for: Witnessing the Royal Ploughing Ceremony and engaging in cultural experiences
- Average Temperature: 27°C (81°F)
September is an exciting time to visit Phnom Penh as it hosts the traditional Royal Ploughing Ceremony. Witness this ancient ritual that marks the beginning of the rice-growing season and gains a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s agricultural heritage. Engage in cultural experiences and enjoy traditional music and dance performances.
October
- Best for: Enjoying pleasant weather and outdoor exploration
- Average Temperature: 27°C (81°F)
October marks the end of the wet season, and the weather becomes more favorable for outdoor activities. Take advantage of the pleasant temperatures to explore Phnom Penh’s outdoor attractions, enjoy leisurely strolls along the riverside, and visit the city’s vibrant markets.
November
- Best for: Exploring Angkor Wat and other historical sites
- Average Temperature: 26°C (79°F)
November ushers in the cool season, providing the ideal weather for exploring Phnom Penh’s iconic landmarks, including the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat. Discover the ancient temples, marvel at intricate carvings, and immerse yourself in the mystical ambiance of these UNESCO World Heritage sites.
December
- Best for: Spotting wildlife and enjoying festive celebrations
- Average Temperature: 24°C (75°F)
December offers comfortable temperatures and is an excellent time for wildlife enthusiasts. Take a trip to the nearby wildlife sanctuaries and nature reserves, where you can spot diverse species of birds, monkeys, and other wildlife. Additionally, December brings a festive atmosphere to Phnom Penh with Christmas and New Year celebrations. Enjoy the city’s decorations, festivities, and indulge in traditional Khmer cuisine.
>> Maybe you’ll want to read more for off-beat experience in Phnom Penh: Top 10 unusual things to do in Phnom Penh
In conclusion, when is the best time to visit Phnom Penh?
The best time to visit Phnom Penh is between November and February when the weather is cool and dry. The cool season (November–February) is the peak time for tourism – mild enough to discover the temples in comfort but warm enough to sunbathe.
However, the best time to visit Phnom Penh depends on the purpose of your travel and the experiences you seek. You can reference here for your information before planning your tour:
- Best time for beach activities and water sports: April (hot season)
- Best time for exploring temples and historical sites: January (dry season)
- Best time for visiting floating villages and experiencing local life: June (wet season)
- Best time for communicating with locals and experiencing Khmer culture: February (cool season)
- Best time for enjoying street food and indulging in local cuisine: March (hot season)
- Best time for participating in local festivals and celebrations: July (wet season)
- Best time for exploring museums and art galleries: August (wet season)
- Best time for witnessing the Royal Ploughing Ceremony and engaging in cultural experiences: September (wet season)
- Best time for wildlife spotting: December (cool season)
- Best time for exploring Angkor Wat and other historical sites: November (cool season)
Phnom Penh offers a vibrant and diverse experience throughout the year. Consider your preferences and the activities that interest you the most when planning your visit to this captivating city. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, historical exploration, or indulging in delicious cuisine, Phnom Penh has something to offer for every traveler.
You also can contact with Indochina Voyages Team by filling the form below. Our expert travel consultants will give you more valuable advice for your Cambodia Tour and you always customize your tour till it suits you best.
From Indochina Voyages Team
