The climate of Cambodia
Cambodia, a country located in Southeast Asia, experiences a predominantly tropical monsoon (Am) and tropical savanna (Aw) climate as classified by the Köppen Climate Classification. The geography of the country, with its plain terrains, mountains, and coastal areas, influences these distinct climatic conditions. Throughout the year, the temperature rarely drops below 20°C (68°F), making it a warm destination regardless of the season. Cambodia's weather is dictated primarily by monsoon patterns, which split the year into distinct wet and dry seasons. From
May to
October, the Southwest Monsoon brings heavy rainfall and high humidity, with monthly precipitation often exceeding 100mm (3.94"). From
November to
April, the Northeast Monsoon ushers in a drier period with lower humidity levels and less frequent rain.
The Best Time to Visit Cambodia
The ideal time to visit
Cambodia is during the dry season, between
November and
April. During this time, the climate is relatively cooler with temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F), and rainfall is minimal, making it favorable for outdoor activities and exploration. The terrain, which can be quite challenging during the wet season due to flooding and muddy conditions, becomes much more accessible. This period also coincides with the peak of the tourist season, thanks to the pleasant weather conditions and the abundance of traditional festivals, such as the Water Festival and the Khmer New Year.
The Worst Time to Visit Cambodia
The most challenging period to visit
Cambodia is during the wet season, from
May to
October. During this period, the country experiences heavy rainfall, causing flooding in certain regions, making some roads impassable, and leading to potential disruptions in travel plans. The temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F) and the humidity levels are significantly high. Although the landscape becomes lush and vibrant, the propensity for heavy showers and the resultant difficulties in transportation make this period less ideal for tourism.
Spring Weather in Cambodia
Spring, which ranges from
March to
May, in
Cambodia is characterized by a steady rise in temperature, ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F). The early part of the season remains relatively dry, but as the season progresses, Cambodia starts to transition into its wet season. By late
April and May, the precipitation levels rise dramatically, heralding the onset of the Southwest Monsoon. Despite the increase in rainfall, the weather remains warm throughout.
Summer Weather in Cambodia
Cambodia does not have a typical summer like temperate regions; instead, it experiences a wet season from
May to
October. During this time, temperatures hover between 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F), with high humidity. The Southwest Monsoon influences this period, causing heavy rainfall, particularly in the afternoon or evening. Despite the frequent rains, these months offer lush green landscapes and full-flowing rivers, making it a beautiful time for nature enthusiasts.
Autumn Weather in Cambodia
In
Cambodia, the autumn months from
September to
November mark the transition from the wet to the dry season. The rainfall starts to decrease, but occasional showers still occur. Temperatures during this period are quite warm, typically ranging from 23°C (73.4°F) to 33°C (91.4°F). Towards the end of November, the climate becomes noticeably drier, signifying the commencement of the dry season.
Winter Weather in Cambodia
The winter months in
Cambodia, from
December to
February, coincide with the dry season. The Northeast Monsoon brings cooler and drier air, with temperatures typically between 20°C (68°F) and 30°C (86°F). This period sees little rainfall, and humidity levels are significantly lower. The dry and sunny conditions make it an excellent time for outdoor activities, providing a pleasant climate for visitors.
Weather in January
January is part of the dry season in
Cambodia, characterized by lower humidity levels and minimal rainfall. The weather during this month is generally dry and cool, making it one of the most pleasant months for tourism. Temperatures typically range from 21°C (69.8°F) to 31°C (87.8°F), with the night-time temperatures dropping to the lower end of this range. Among the notable cities, Phnom Penh, the capital city, enjoys an average temperature of about 26°C (78.8°F).
Weather in January » Weather in February
February is another month within the dry season in
Cambodia, known for its agreeable climate conditions, which continue from
January. During this month, the country experiences slightly warmer temperatures compared to the previous month, usually ranging from 22°C (71.6°F) to 33°C (91.4°F).
Weather in February » Weather in March
March in
Cambodia signifies a transition towards the hot season, although it still retains the predominantly dry conditions of the previous months. During this month, temperatures see a noticeable increase, with average daily temperatures ranging from 24°C (75.2°F) to 35°C (95°F), making it one of the hotter months of the year. In the capital city of Phnom Penh, temperatures in March can reach an average high of 34°C (93.2°F).
Weather in March » Weather in April
April in
Cambodia marks the peak of the hot season, typically featuring the highest temperatures of the year. During this month, daily average temperatures can range from 25°C (77°F) to a scorching 36°C (96.8°F). These temperatures, coupled with gradually increasing humidity, can lead to intense heat during the daytime. In the capital city, Phnom Penh, average high temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F), while in Siem Reap, the city of the iconic Angkor Wat, temperatures can soar to an average high of 36°C (96.8°F).
Weather in April » Weather in May
May in
Cambodia marks the onset of the Southwest Monsoon, bringing the commencement of the wet season. During this month, the weather becomes notably more humid, with daily temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 34°C (93.2°F).
Weather in May » Weather in June
June in
Cambodia is well into the wet season, characterized by significant rainfall and persistently high temperatures. Average daily temperatures in June range from 24°C (75.2°F) to 33°C (91.4°F). Though slightly cooler than
May, the increased humidity can still make the climate feel rather warm. The capital city, Phnom Penh, experiences temperatures around 33°C (91.4°F) on average.
Weather in June » Weather in July
July in
Cambodia continues the trend of the monsoon season, characterized by frequent rain showers and high humidity. This month sees average temperatures ranging from 24°C (75.2°F) to 32°C (89.6°F), slightly cooler than the preceding months but still quite warm due to the increased humidity. In Phnom Penh, the temperatures average around 32°C (89.6°F), while in Siem Reap, home to the world-renowned Angkor Wat, temperatures can reach up to 31°C (87.8°F).
Weather in July » Weather in August
August in
Cambodia remains within the heart of the wet season, characterized by frequent heavy showers and high humidity levels. This month witnesses average temperatures ranging from 24°C (75.2°F) to 32°C (89.6°F). Although the temperature is slightly cooler than the preceding months, the high humidity contributes to a warmer feel. In the capital, Phnom Penh, average high temperatures hover around 32°C (89.6°F).
Weather in August » Weather in September
September in
Cambodia marks the tail end of the wet season, exhibiting continued heavy rainfall and high humidity. During this month, average temperatures fluctuate between 24°C (75.2°F) and 31°C (87.8°F). Despite the cooling trend compared to the hotter months, the high humidity level contributes to a persistently warm climate. In Phnom Penh, the nation's capital, average high temperatures settle around 31°C (87.8°F).
Weather in September » Weather in October
October in
Cambodia marks the beginning of the transition from the wet season to the dry season. During this month, the rainfall gradually decreases, though there are still quite a number of rainy days. The average temperatures in October range from 24°C (75.2°F) to 31°C (87.8°F), which is slightly cooler compared to the peak of the hot season. In the capital city, Phnom Penh, the temperatures hover around an average high of 31°C (87.8°F).
Weather in October » Weather in November
November in
Cambodia signifies the arrival of the dry season, with a substantial reduction in rainfall compared to the preceding months. Average temperatures during this month range from 23°C (73.4°F) to 30°C (86°F). This reduction in temperature compared to the monsoon months and the decreased humidity make for a more comfortable climate. In the capital city, Phnom Penh, average high temperatures hover around 30°C (86°F).
Weather in November » Weather in December
December in
Cambodia ushers in the cooler period of the dry season, with minimal rainfall and relatively mild temperatures. During this month, average temperatures hover between 22°C (71.6°F) and 30°C (86°F), offering some of the most comfortable climatic conditions of the year. Phnom Penh, the nation's capital, experiences average high temperatures around 30°C (86°F).
Weather in December »