Month-by-month guide to Siem Reap weather, Angkor Wat conditions, crowds, and the best time to visit Cambodia's temple capital.
Siem Reap is a year-round destination, but the dry season (November–April) is when Angkor Wat is at its most accessible and photogenic. The wet season brings lush green landscapes and far fewer tourists.
Siem Reap's Two Seasons
Dry season (November–April): Clear skies, low humidity, ideal for temple exploration. Peak season December–February.
Wet season (May–October): Daily rain, high humidity, flooded moats and rice fields. Fewer tourists, lower prices.
Month-by-Month Breakdown
November–February: Best Season
Weather: 22–30°C, low humidity, clear skies
Crowds: High (peak December–January)
Hotel rates: Peak
The cool dry season is Siem Reap at its best. Angkor Wat sunrise photography is spectacular with clear skies. November is the best-value month — excellent conditions with shoulder prices.
Best for: First-time visitors, photographers, families.
March–April: Late Dry Season
Weather: 30–38°C, very hot, minimal rain
Crowds: Moderate (Khmer New Year spike mid-April)
Hotel rates: Moderate
Very hot — temple exploration is best done at sunrise and early morning. Khmer New Year (13–15 April) brings water festivities. Outside the holiday, April is quieter than peak season.
May–October: Wet Season
Weather: 25–33°C, daily afternoon rain, high humidity
Crowds: Low
Hotel rates: Low (20–35% below peak)
The wet season transforms Angkor — moats fill with water, jungle turns vivid green, dramatic storm clouds create extraordinary photography. Rain is usually afternoon-only; morning temple visits are often dry.
Best for: Photographers, budget travellers, Angkor without crowds.
Angkor Wat Sunrise: Best Months
Best overall: November–December (full moats from wet season, clear dry-season skies).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best month to visit Siem Reap?
November and December — post-wet-season full moats, clear skies, comfortable temperatures.
Is Siem Reap worth visiting in the wet season?
Yes — morning temple visits are usually dry, prices are lower, and the green landscape is beautiful.
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