🌤️ When to go?Best time to visit Cambodia
The best time to visit Cambodia for backpacking is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is generally warm and dry, making it easier to explore the country's various attractions and outdoor activities. However, it's important to note that Cambodia can still be quite hot, especially in April, so be prepared for high temperatures. Additionally, visiting during the shoulder seasons of November and April may offer fewer crowds and more affordable prices.
Why visit Cambodia in January?
January is an excellent time to visit Cambodia due to its dry and cool weather. The country experiences lower levels of humidity and rainfall, making it an ideal time to explore its stunning landscapes and historical sites. The pleasant weather allows for comfortable outdoor activities such as visiting the famous Angkor Wat temple complex, exploring the vibrant capital city of Phnom Penh, or relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Sihanoukville.Moreover, January is also the peak season for bird watching in Cambodia. The country is home to a diverse range of bird species, and many of them can be spotted in various national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Bird enthusiasts will have a fantastic opportunity to observe and photograph these beautiful creatures in their natural habitats.
In addition, January marks the beginning of several traditional Cambodian festivals, providing visitors with a unique cultural experience. The most notable festival is the Chaul Chnam Thmey, the Cambodian New Year, which is celebrated with colorful parades, traditional music and dance performances, and lively street parties. This festive atmosphere allows visitors to immerse themselves in the local customs and traditions, creating unforgettable memories.
Why visit Cambodia in February?
February is an ideal time to visit Cambodia due to its dry and mild weather. The country experiences lower humidity and less rainfall during this time, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The pleasant weather allows visitors to explore the stunning temples of Angkor Wat and other ancient ruins without the discomfort of extreme heat or heavy rains.February also marks the beginning of the peak tourist season in Cambodia, which means that visitors can enjoy the sights and attractions without the crowds that often come with the high season. This allows for a more relaxed and immersive experience, whether it’s exploring the bustling markets of Phnom Penh, taking a boat trip on the Tonle Sap Lake, or relaxing on the pristine beaches of Sihanoukville.
Moreover, February is the month of the Khmer New Year, a major cultural event in Cambodia. Visitors during this time can witness traditional ceremonies, colorful parades, and lively street celebrations, providing a unique insight into the country’s rich cultural heritage. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience the local customs and traditions while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
Why visit Cambodia in March?
March is an ideal time to visit Cambodia due to its pleasant weather. The country experiences dry and warm weather during this time, making it perfect for exploring its many outdoor attractions. The temperatures are comfortable, and the skies are generally clear, providing a great environment for sightseeing and outdoor activities.March is also a great time to experience Cambodia’s vibrant cultural events and festivals. One of the most significant festivals, Khmer New Year, usually takes place in April, but the preparations and celebrations start in March. This festive period offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Cambodia’s rich traditions and customs, including colorful parades, traditional dance performances, and lively street celebrations.
Additionally, March is an excellent time to visit Cambodia’s famous ancient temples, such as Angkor Wat. With the dry weather, the temple complex is more easily accessible, and the lack of crowds allows for a more peaceful and immersive experience. Exploring these awe-inspiring architectural wonders in the pleasant March weather is truly a remarkable experience.
Overall, visiting Cambodia in March offers the perfect combination of favorable weather, cultural festivities, and the opportunity to explore the country’s iconic landmarks.
Why visit Cambodia in April?
April is an ideal time to visit Cambodia due to the celebration of the traditional New Year, known as ”Chaul Chnam Thmey” in the Khmer language. This festival, which lasts for three days, is a vibrant and joyous occasion where locals engage in various traditional customs, such as water splashing and offering food to monks. Visitors can immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere, witness colorful parades, and partake in the festivities, gaining a deeper understanding of Cambodian culture and traditions.Moreover, April marks the beginning of the dry season in Cambodia, with pleasant weather and clear skies, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Travelers can explore the iconic Angkor Wat temple complex, cruise along the Tonle Sap Lake, or relax on the pristine beaches of Sihanoukville without the interruption of heavy rainfall.
On the downside, the hot and humid weather during April can be challenging for some travelers, especially those sensitive to high temperatures. Additionally, the increased number of tourists during the New Year festivities may lead to crowded attractions and higher accommodation prices. It’s important for visitors to plan and book their trip in advance to avoid any inconvenience during this peak travel period.
Why visit Cambodia in November?
November is an ideal time to visit Cambodia due to the pleasant weather. The rainy season has come to an end, resulting in clear skies and cooler temperatures, making it perfect for exploring the country’s stunning landscapes and historical sites. The lush greenery from the recent rains also adds to the natural beauty of the country, creating a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities and sightseeing.One of the main drawbacks of visiting Cambodia in November is the potential for crowds at popular tourist destinations. As it is a peak tourist season, attractions such as Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh may be more crowded, making it necessary to plan visits strategically to avoid long lines and large crowds. Additionally, prices for accommodations and tours may be higher during this time, as demand for travel to Cambodia increases.
Despite the potential for crowds and higher prices, November offers an ideal climate for exploring Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. With the rainy season behind and the landscape in full bloom, visitors can enjoy the best of what the country has to offer without the discomfort of extreme heat or heavy rainfall.
Why visit Cambodia in December?
December is an ideal time to visit Cambodia due to its pleasant weather. The country experiences mild temperatures and lower humidity during this month, making it perfect for exploring the stunning temples of Angkor Wat and other historical sites without being overwhelmed by the heat.Additionally, December is the start of the dry season in Cambodia, which means less rainfall and more opportunities for outdoor activities. This is an excellent time to visit the beautiful beaches and islands in the south of the country, such as Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, where you can relax, snorkel, and enjoy the crystal-clear waters.
Furthermore, December is a festive month in Cambodia, with various cultural events and celebrations taking place throughout the country. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local traditions and witness colorful ceremonies, traditional dances, and vibrant street parades, providing a unique and enriching cultural experience.
Overall, December offers a wonderful combination of favorable weather, outdoor adventures, and cultural festivities, making it a great time to visit Cambodia and create unforgettable memories.
🌤️ Climate in Cambodia
In Cambodia, a Southeast Asian country overlooking the Gulf of Thailand, the climate is tropical, hot all year round, with a rainy season from May to mid-November due to the south-west monsoon and a dry season from mid-November to April.In the dry season, the first part, corresponding to the winter, is the least hot, and in particular, December is the coolest month of the year. Instead, from mid-February the temperature rises, and the period from mid-February to May, before the monsoon arrives, is the hottest of the year. The hottest months are April and May, when the heat is oppressive.
In the rainy season, the temperatures are a little cooler, but the higher humidity exacerbates the feeling of sultriness.
The monsoon withdraws in early November in the north and between the middle and the end of the month in the center-south.
The rains are usually quite abundant, in fact they generally range from 1,300 to 1,800 millimeters (51 to 70 inches) per year in the main cities located in inland areas. The wettest region of Cambodia is the south-western one, since in the monsoon period the currents come directly from the sea: here, the rainfall exceeds 2,000 mm (78 in) per year, but in the central-northern part, towards the coast of the Gulf of Thailand, it even exceeds 3,000 mm (118 in) and there are vast areas covered with forest.
The climate is a bit cooler in the highlands, such as the Cardamon Mountains, whose highest point is Phnom Aural, 1,800 meters (5,900 ft) high, and whose slopes are covered by an impenetrable forest and are protected by a nature reserve.
The mountainous areas, in addition to being the coolest, are also the rainiest: they receive up to 5,000 millimeters (197 inches) of rain per year, and may experience some showers in the afternoon even before the monsoon season (ie from February to April).
For swimming, the sea in Cambodia is warm all year round.
source: climatestotravel.com