Cambodia in rainy season, which runs from May to October, transforms into a lush, vibrant landscape with fewer crowds and a slower, more peaceful pace. While the occasional downpour is part of the experience, it also brings out the beauty of the rice paddies, waterfalls and floating villages. In this article, we’ll share practical tips, highlight the best places to visit and show you how to make the most of your trip during Cambodia’s green season.
When is the rainy season in Cambodia?
Cambodia’s rainy season, also known as the monsoon, lasts from May to October and dramatically changes the landscape of Cambodia. The rains, which are often heavy but short, mostly occur in the late afternoon. During this time, temperatures typically range from 28–34°C (82–93°F) and humidity is higher. However, this season offers some potential advantages for adventurous travelers and those looking to avoid the crowds.
- May to July: Most days are cloudy or sunny, with showers in the late afternoon or evening that are more frequent but not as long. This is still a good time to travel, as the temperatures are not too high and the rain does not disrupt outdoor activities too much during the day. The rains also help to luxuriate the landscape, offering spectacular views of rice paddies and mountains.
- August to October: This is when rainfall peaks. Showers are frequent but usually short, though they can still cause flooding in rural areas, and roads are slippery and difficult to navigate. Rivers and lakes, such as the Tonlé Sap, reach their highest levels, making for perfect river cruises. The Angkor temples, often shrouded in mist and lush greenery, take on a uniquely mystical air in the rain.
The climate chart of rainy season in Cambodia
Is rainy season a good time to visit Cambodia?
While many people may shy away from travelling to Cambodia during the rainy season due to the rains, this period can have its own unique benefits, depending on your travel preferences.
From May to September, although tropical rains are frequent, they usually only last a few hours and are concentrated in the late afternoon. This allows you to still enjoy outdoor activities, exploring temples or trekking in the morning and spending time relaxing or visiting indoor attractions in the afternoon. Cambodia’s landscape is particularly lush during this time. The rice fields and forests are at their peak, offering breathtaking views. The landscape takes on a whole new dimension, with soft light after the rain showers. If you are passionate about nature and photography, the rainy season is the ideal time to capture the country’s natural beauty at its best.
If you want to avoid the tourist crowds and enjoy Cambodia’s sites in a more peaceful atmosphere, the rainy season (from May to October) is the best choice. Since the rainy season also coincides with the low season, it also means that famous tourist destinations such as Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh, etc. are less crowded. You will have more space and privacy to explore freely or take photos. This season also brings many significant advantages because demand is reduced, so many hotels, tours or flights will be discounted quite a bit or have special offers, especially suitable for tourists who want to save on travel costs or want to enjoy a long vacation.
> > > If Cambodia’s rainy season has sparked your curiosity, why not take the next step and explore it through one of our thoughtfully designed Cambodia tours, crafted to bring out the best of the country, rain or shine?
Best places in Cambodia to visit in rainy seasons
Siem Reap
Siem Reap becomes even more enchanting during the rainy season, with lush green landscapes and serene temple views
Even in the rainy season, Siem Reap remains one of Cambodia’s most iconic destinations. After the rains, the surrounding greenery, moss-covered rocks and the stunning reflection of the temple in Angkor Wat Complex add to the mystical atmosphere. Furthermore, Tonlé Sap Lake is at its fullest, meaning that floating villages like Kompong Phluk are easily accessible and teeming with life. Boat tours through these villages offer a more authentic look into the daily life and culture of the Cambodian people on the water. You’ll see houses on stilts, floating schools, and people paddling through the water.
Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh’s timeless charm in the rainy season
Phnom Penh is also a great destination during the rainy season in Cambodia because it has many iconic destinations and most of them are indoors. Some of the top destinations include:
- The Royal Palace: with 2 main areas being the residence and working place of the king and the Emerald Buddha Temple, also known as the Golden Temple and the Silver Temple. The temple is famous for its silver tiled floors and the Buddha statue studded with more than 2,000 diamonds.
- Wat Phnom: is the most famous and sacred temple in Phnom Penh, associated with the history of the city. This is also the highest place in the capital, allowing you to see the whole city from the top of the temple.
- Toul Saleng Genocide Museum: is a place to recreate and display items and films about the Khmer Rouge war in the past, giving you a deeper insight into Cambodia’s painful history.
- Central Market: This is an ideal destination for tourists who want to buy souvenirs or enjoy local cuisine with a variety of stalls. In addition, the market is also very prominent thanks to its unique dome-style architecture, creating a majestic and impressive space.
Battambang
Battambang in the rainy season: rustic charm comes alive
Battambang is a relatively small city that still retains its peaceful countryside feel. It’s a peaceful place where you can slow down and enjoy the rhythms of Cambodian rural life. During the rainy season, the rice fields across the city become lush green, and you can experience the unique bamboo train that goes through the fields and villages. Or rent a bicycle, especially a horse-drawn carriage, to see the streets and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Battambang. If you get caught in the rain, you can relax at a riverside cafe or visit a thriving local art gallery.
Kampot and Kep
Kampot is a perfect rainy season escape, with lush landscapes, and a cool break from the tropical heat
Located in the south, the cities of Kampot and Kep are always warm all year round, suitable for tourists who love outdoor activities without interruption. Coming to Kampot, you can explore the buildings and monuments with beautiful French colonial architecture. Don’t miss the Bokor plateau, you can trek in Bokor National Park, admire the twin waterfalls of Popokvil pouring down from above, creating a majestic natural scene among the green mountains and forests.
Especially in the rainy season, the plateau is covered in mist, bringing a mysterious feeling to the viewing point and the ancient French ruins on the top. Continue moving to the coastal town of Kep, although the beaches in the rainy season are not so great for swimming, you can still visit the crab market and enjoy crab and famous seafood dishes here.
> > > To truly experience the richness of these destinations, our Essence of Cambodia in 14 Days tour weaves together the cultural depth of Siem Reap and Battambang, the tranquil beauty of Koh Rong and Kep, and the vibrant energy of Phnom Penh, offering you a well-rounded journey through Cambodia, rain or shine.
Mondulkiri
Mondulkiri with its waterfalls in full flow, forests turning a vibrant green, and cool mountain air
Mondulkiri is located in the eastern highlands of Cambodia, so the weather is cool all year round and the rainy season is even more suitable for you to explore nature. Trek along the forest trails to enjoy the fresh air, observe the wildlife and the famous Boursa waterfall. Mondulkiri also has a number of elephant sanctuaries where you can learn and walk with elephants in a natural setting.
Besides the nature, the people and culture here are also very unique. Guided treks through the villages of the local ethnic groups are a great way to learn more about Cambodia’s diverse culture, just be prepared for muddy trails and bring sturdy shoes.
Tips when visiting Cambodia in rainy season
Here’s a detailed and reader-friendly list of tips when visiting Cambodia during the rainy season. These tips will help travelers make the most of their trip while staying safe, comfortable, and open to the beauty of Cambodia’s monsoon months:
- Bring a raincoat and umbrella: A lightweight, hooded raincoat and a compact umbrella are essential. Sudden showers are common, so be prepared to stay dry while exploring.
- Bring insect repellent: the rainy season is also mosquito breeding season, so bring a reliable insect repellent, ideally one containing DEET, picaridin or natural essential oils such as citronella or eucalyptus. If you are heading into the woods or to the countryside, wear a thin long-sleeved shirt and long pants for extra protection. You can also use mosquito wristbands or mosquito repellent lamps when sleeping at night.
- Use a waterproof backpack: Protect your belongings with a waterproof bag or backpack. This will keep your belongings dry and allow you to move freely, no matter the weather.
- Choose waterproof shoes or sandals: Since it’s almost never cold during the rainy season, consider wearing flip-flops or sandals instead of dealing with wet shoes and socks. This option will keep you comfortable and move more easily throughout the day.
- Bring some layers: Air conditioning in cars and buildings can make you feel colder if you’re a little wet, so a light layer of clothing can help keep you warm if you’re traveling in an air-conditioned car or planning to stop at a few cafes/restaurants throughout the day.
- Be flexible: The weather forecast won’t tell you exactly when showers will occur. It’s important to be as flexible as possible with your itinerary. If you wake up one day and it’s raining, adjust your plans and consider moving your outdoor activities to another time.
- Plan your trip: Due to the possibility of prolonged rain or storms, roads in rural and mountainous areas can become slippery or even flooded, making travel difficult. If you venture beyond major cities, allow extra time between destinations and avoid booking back-to-back trips. Use trusted transportation providers or private drivers when possible, as they will be better prepared for local conditions.
- Check road and route conditions ahead of time: although roads in major cities are in good condition, the rains can often cause flooding, landslides and mudslides, making travel more difficult and even closing dangerous sections of the road to protect residents and tourists.
Don’t let a little rain stop you from experiencing the magic of Cambodia. In fact, the rainy season brings out a side of the country that many visitors never get to see: the peaceful mist-shrouded temples, the lush rice paddies, the majestic waterfalls, and the vibrant life on the water. This is when everything becomes more vibrant, more local, and more personal. Need help planning your rainy-season adventure? Contact us today and start planning your perfect Cambodia adventure, rain or no rain.
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