Best Time to Visit Phnom Penh
The best time to visit Phnom Penh is November. This marks the start of the dry season when humidity levels drop and temperatures remain manageable, typically hovering around 25°C to 30°C. You avoid the oppressive heat of April and the heavy monsoon rains of September. November also hosts the Water Festival (Bon Om Touk), Cambodia’s most significant cultural event, which brings millions to the riverside. If you want blue skies, manageable walking conditions, and active street life, book your trip during this window. Early December is a close second for similar weather patterns.
Month by Month
January
January is peak season for a reason. Temperatures range from 22°C at night to 31°C during the day. Rainfall is virtually non-existent. You can walk the riverfront or visit the Royal Palace without breaking a sweat immediately. Because the weather is optimal, crowds are at their highest and hotel prices peak. Expect to pay a premium for boutique stays in the BKK1 district. It is the best time for rooftop dining.
February
Conditions in February remain dry and pleasant. Temperatures climb slightly, averaging between 23°C and 33°C. The humidity is still low, making it comfortable for long afternoons at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum or Killing Fields. You will encounter fewer crowds than in January, but it is still busy. It is the ideal month for a Mekong River cruise as water levels are stable and skies are consistently clear.
March
March marks the transition into the hot season. Daytime highs frequently reach 35°C. The dust levels in the city increase as the landscape dries out. While it is still technically the dry season, the heat starts to deter some travelers, leading to slight dips in hotel pricing. If you visit in March, plan your sightseeing for 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM to avoid the midday sun.
April
April is the hottest month in Phnom Penh. Temperatures often soar past 38°C. Humidity rises, making the air feel thick and heavy. Despite the heat, April is significant due to Khmer New Year (Chaul Chnam Thmey). The city slows down as locals return to their provinces, though the remaining celebrations are intense. Expect some business closures, but you will experience the city's most important cultural holiday.
May
May brings the first rains of the monsoon season. These are usually short, violent afternoon bursts that cool the city down temporarily. Temperatures stay high, ranging from 26°C to 35°C. Because the weather is unpredictable, flight and hotel prices begin to drop. This is the month of the Royal Ploughing Ceremony, an ancient ritual held near the National Museum to predict the coming harvest.
June
In June, the "Green Season" is in full swing. Rain becomes more frequent, though it rarely lasts all day. Temperatures average 25°C to 34°C. The city’s parks and the surrounding countryside turn lush and green. This is a strategic time to visit if you want to save money on luxury accommodation; many high-end hotels offer significant discounts. Afternoon rains are perfect for visiting the city’s growing specialty coffee scene.
July
July is characterized by high humidity and consistent rainfall. Expect 25°C to 33°C. While it rains often, the showers are predictable, usually occurring in the late afternoon or overnight. Exploring the Central Market (Psar Thmei) is a good indoor activity during downpours. Crowds are thin, so you won't struggle to find a table at the city’s top restaurants. Flash flooding can occur on some city streets.
August
August sees a slight increase in rainfall volume. Temperatures remain steady between 25°C and 32°C. The clouds provide much-needed shade from the sun, but the humidity can be taxing. It is a quiet month for tourism. This is an excellent time to visit the Silk Island (Koh Dach) nearby; the boat ride is breezy, and the island’s orchards are at their most productive.
September
September is statistically the wettest month in Phnom Penh. Rainfall is heavy and can cause transport delays due to localized flooding. Temperatures range from 24°C to 31°C. This is the heart of the low season, meaning you can find the absolute lowest rates for hotels and tours. It is also the time of Pchum Ben (Ancestors' Day), where Cambodians visit pagodas to offer food to the deceased.
October
October marks the end of the monsoon. Rains begin to taper off toward the end of the month. Temperatures average 24°C to 30°C. The city starts to feel fresher as the humidity breaks. Prices remain low before the November surge. It is a great month to explore the city’s colonial architecture before the peak season crowds arrive. The Tonle Sap river is at its highest point.
November
November is the premium month for travel. The weather is cool (23°C–30°C) and the rain stops. The city comes alive for the Water Festival (Bon Om Touk). Boat races take over the riverfront, and millions of people flock to the capital. While this is the most exciting time to be in Phnom Penh, you must book accommodation months in advance as the city reaches maximum capacity.
December
December offers the most comfortable climate of the year. Lows can drop to 21°C, which feels quite cool in the tropics. Highs rarely exceed 30°C. There is zero rainfall. This is the peak of the tourist season, and the riverfront area is bustling with international travelers. It is the best time for walking tours of the city’s street art or historical landmarks without the risk of rain or heatstroke.
Cheapest Time to Visit Phnom Penh
The cheapest time to visit Phnom Penh is during the heart of the monsoon season, specifically September and October. During these months, tourist numbers drop to their lowest levels.
- Accommodation: Boutique hotels and international chains often slash prices by 30-50% compared to January rates.
- Flights: Regional carriers like AirAsia or Lanmei Airlines offer their most competitive fares during this period.
- Negotiation: You have more leverage with tuk-tuk drivers and tour operators because demand is low.
While you will deal with rain, the financial trade-off is significant. If you prioritize luxury stays at a fraction of the cost, aim for the shoulder months of May or September.
When to Avoid Phnom Penh
You should avoid Phnom Penh in April unless you are specifically coming for Khmer New Year.
The heat in April is extreme. Walking between sights becomes a physical struggle, and the high humidity makes air conditioning a necessity rather than a luxury. Additionally, during the three days of Khmer New Year, many small businesses, markets, and local restaurants close as owners go home to their provinces. The city can feel oddly empty, yet the open areas are incredibly crowded.
If you dislike rain and humidity, avoid September. The frequent downpours can lead to flooded streets that stall traffic for hours, making it difficult to get around the city efficiently.
Best Time for Good Weather
For the most reliable weather, visit between December and February.
This window represents the "cool and dry" season. You are guaranteed blue skies almost every day. The humidity is at its annual low, which is vital for any tropical city where you spend a lot of time outdoors. Morning temperatures are brisk enough that you might even want a light layer. This climate is perfect for:
- Full-day walking tours of the city center.
- Cycling trips to Silk Island.
- Open-air rooftop bars in the evening.
Best Time for Fewer Crowds
To find a balance between decent weather and fewer tourists, visit in May or June.
This is the start of the shoulder season. The massive crowds of the winter months have departed, but the heavy, disruptive rains of September haven't arrived yet.
- Palace and Museums: You won't have to jostle with tour groups at the Silver Pagoda.
- Dining: You can get into high-demand restaurants like Malis or Rosewood's Sora Bar without a week-long lead time on reservations.
- Vibe: The city feels more authentic and less geared toward mass tourism.
You will see some rain, but the ability to photograph the National Museum or the Independence Monument without dozens of other people in the frame makes it worth the occasional afternoon shower.