Cambodia stands as a stunning temple-filled nation which preserves the ancient Khmer civilization alongside its famous Angkor Wat monument. The country has attracted travelers from across the globe for many years because of its rich heritage and architectural treasures. The people of Cambodia make temples their sacred homes which preserve their cultural heritage through religious sites and ancient monuments.
But if you’re planning to explore this temple land and wondering, “When is the cheapest time to travel to Cambodia?”. The answer is from May to September. Why is that, and is it really worth packing your bags during this time? Let’s join IDC Travel to find out in detail how you can both hunt for the best prices and enjoy an amazing travel experience!
Why is May to September the cheapest time to travel to Cambodia?
Angkor Wat during the rainy season — when showers bring a mysterious charm to Cambodia’s most iconic temple.
If you notice, this is actually the low season for tourism in Cambodia. The following two factors create this seasonal price difference from the rest of the year:
Impact of the rainy season
Cambodia experiences a tropical monsoon climate which brings rainy weather patterns between May and October. International tourist numbers decline sharply during this time because travelers fear that rainy weather will disrupt their plans. Airfares and hotel prices as well as package tours experience a 20-40% discount when compared to the peak season that occurs from November through February.
Airlines frequently introduce very cheap deals to their customers but hotels provide room upgrades and complimentary breakfast packages to draw in new guests. People who enjoy traveling and can handle unexpected rainstorms will find this period to be the ideal moment for budget-friendly trips. This period is perfect for budget travelers looking for money-saving travel tips to Cambodia, as airlines and hotels offer big discounts during this season.
Plenty of special deals
The low season also means fewer guests for all tourism services — from hotels and restaurants to tour guides. Businesses must now deliver special discount packages and promotional deals because of this market shift.
Hotel rates in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh become more affordable during the low season because 3 to 4 star hotels match hostel prices. Angkor Wat sunrise tours and tuk-tuk rides and spa services become more affordable during this time period.
The tourist-free environment creates a more tranquil and genuine experience for visitors. During your visit to this country you can explore deserted ancient temples and have meaningful interactions with local people while absorbing the unhurried pace of daily life. The low season offers two main advantages because it lowers travel costs and provides an opportunity to experience a more authentic and serene Cambodian experience.
Is it worth visiting Cambodia during the low season (rainy season) ?
Yes, absolutely! To understand why, let’s take a quick look at Cambodia’s climate and what you can expect during this period. Visiting during the low season not only saves money but also allows travelers to experience a quieter, more authentic side of the country.
A quick look at Cambodia’s climate
Cambodia experiences two primary seasons throughout the year:
- Dry season: The dry season occurs between November and April when clear skies dominate the weather.
The magnificent Angkor Wat temple complex amid vibrant greenery in Siem Reap, Cambodia — a breathtaking view of the country’s cultural and natural heritage.
- Rainy season: The rainy season begins in May and continues until October while temperatures stay between 25 and 32 degrees Celsius and short rain showers occur mostly during afternoon and evening hours.
Enjoying the charm of Cambodia’s rainy season — when the countryside turns vibrant green and the air feels refreshingly cool.
Rain in Cambodia tends to stop before the entire day finishes. The rain typically lasts between one and two hours before stopping to create a cooler and fresher atmosphere. You should schedule your trips during specific times to avoid any travel disruptions caused by rain.
Reasons to travel to Cambodia during low season
- Super affordable prices: Airfare costs and travel expenses reach their lowest point during this season.
- Lush and vibrant scenery: The rains bring a vibrant green freshness to rice fields and forests and temples which makes them perfect for photography.
- Less crowded: The chance to capture photos at Angkor Wat emerges since no other individuals appear in the background and young adults can select their preferred tables in popular dining establishments.
- Cooler weather: The temperature is more comfortable than the dry season, especially in hilly areas like Mondulkiri or Ratanakiri.
Travelers seeking affordable tours in Cambodia will find many attractive options that combine culture, nature, and budget-friendly experiences.
Suggested affordable tour for you:
Day 1: Siem Reap
Arrival in Siem Reap. Airport pick-up and transfer to hotel. Free time to relax or explore the city. Dinner included.
Day 2: Siem Reap – Angkor Thom & Angkor Wat
Full-day exploration of Angkor Complex: visit Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple with its smiling faces, Baphuon, Royal Palace, Terrace of the Elephants, and Ta Prohm. Afternoon visit to Angkor Wat, UNESCO World Heritage Site and Cambodia’s most iconic temple.
Day 3: Siem Reap – Kbal Spean & Banteay Srei
Morning visit to Kbal Spean, the “River of a Thousand Lingas,” then explore the pink sandstone temple Banteay Srei – the “Citadel of Women.” Afternoon stops at a local palm sugar factory and Banteay Samre Temple. Dinner and overnight in Siem Reap.
Day 4: Siem Reap – Kompong Klieng Floating Village
Morning excursion to Kompong Klieng, a stilted village on Tonle Sap Lake. Discover the fishermen’s lifestyle, visit local homes, and enjoy a traditional Khmer lunch. Afternoon countryside walk to observe local farming life before transfer to the airport for departure.
>>> View full detail in Angkor 4 Days: Unforgettable Experience in Cambodia
Suggested another affordable tour for you:
Day 1: Siem Reap
Arrival at Siem Reap International Airport, transfer to hotel. Free time to rest and relax.
Day 2: Siem Reap – Angkor Wat & Angkor Thom
Explore Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Kdei. Afternoon visit to Angkor Wat – the world’s largest religious monument.
Day 3: Siem Reap – Banteay Srei & Tonle Sap Lake
Morning visit to Banteay Srei with its exquisite carvings. Afternoon boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake to explore Kompong Phluk floating village.
Day 4: Siem Reap – Sihanoukville
Morning at leisure. Transfer to the airport for a short flight to Sihanoukville. Check in and relax at the beach.
Day 5: Sihanoukville – Koh Rong Samloem Island
Full-day boat trip to Koh Rong Samloem for snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, and relaxing on pristine beaches.
Day 6: Sihanoukville Free Day
Leisure day to enjoy Sihanoukville’s beaches, swim, sunbathe, taste fresh seafood, or watch the sunset by the sea.
Day 7: Sihanoukville – Phnom Penh
After breakfast, transfer by road (approx. 5 hours) to Phnom Penh. Check in and rest.
Day 8: Phnom Penh City Tour
Visit the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and National Museum. Afternoon visits to Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Choeung Ek Memorial.
Day 9: Phnom Penh Departure
Free time until transfer to the airport for your flight home or onward destination.
>>> View full detail in Classic Adventure Tour to Cambodia in 9 Days
Top destinations to visit in Cambodia during the low season
No matter what season it is, Cambodia has plenty of wonders waiting for you. Here are the four most popular destinations you shouldn’t miss:
1. Siem Reap – The soul of Cambodia
Siem Reap functions as the essential entry point to Cambodia because it leads visitors to the famous Angkor complex which exists as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
During the rainy season the green grass grows abundantly around Angkor Wat which reflects its beauty onto the water that surrounds the temple area. Visitors have the choice to see Bayon Temple and Ta Prohm or choose to rent bicycles for exploring the surrounding village areas.
Angkor Wat, the iconic temple complex in Siem Reap, Cambodia, reflected in the tranquil morning waters.
The evening brings Pub Street to life as the main entertainment district where visitors can sample fried insects while drinking Angkor Beer at a price of 1 USD.
2. Phnom Penh – The bustling heart of the Kingdom
The capital city of Phnom Penh unites historic charm with contemporary vibrancy in its urban environment. This place stays active all year long until the peak season begins.
The Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, glowing beautifully under the pink and orange hues of the evening sky.
Visitors have the choice to explore the Royal Palace and National Museum of Cambodia or enjoy the sunset views from the Tonle Sap Riverbank. 4-star hotels in this area offer their rooms at 50% off regular prices during the rainy season so it makes sense to reserve your stay in advance.
3. Sihanoukville – The lesser-known beach paradise
Sihanoukville serves as the perfect destination for relaxation seekers who want to unwind. People know this coastal city because it has white sand beaches and clear water and a relaxed atmosphere.
Relaxing paradise — a sunny day on the pristine beaches of Sihanoukville, Cambodia.
The ocean keeps its beauty through the rainy season because there are no crowds to disturb its natural charm so you can experience your own personal beach. The two “emerald islands” of Cambodia, Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, are accessible through boat trips which you can take to reach these destinations.
4. Battambang – The city of art and culture
Less famous than Siem Reap or Phnom Penh, Battambang is where you can feel the authentic soul of Cambodia.
Ta Dambong Kro Nhong Statue — the famous landmark and symbol of Battambang city, Cambodia.
The combination of large rice paddies with historic pagodas and colonial French structures produces a quaint and rustic charm. The Bamboo Train offers visitors an extraordinary experience to discover Khmer life and culture while they explore local art galleries.
>>> Your Cambodian journey is waiting—plan your budget-friendly getaway now by booking Explore the Highlights of Cambodia in 11 Days
Another smart choice for flexible travelers – the “Shoulder Season”
There’s an alternative to the rainy season which means you can choose the shoulder season that occurs between April and May and again from September to October.
- More stable weather: The rain is just starting or about to end, so you can still enjoy many sunny days.
- Still affordable: Although slightly higher than mid-rainy season rates, flights and accommodations are still 20–30% cheaper than peak season.
- Less crowded: International tourists haven’t arrived in large numbers yet, so you can fully enjoy the space and tranquility.
The shoulder season provides the perfect solution for people who want to avoid weather unpredictability and save money and stay away from crowded places. The weather provides an ideal setting for both couples and families to visit because of its mild conditions and affordable prices and stunning views.
Money-Saving Travel Tips to Cambodia
Cambodia presents a striking combination of historical sites and cultural heritage which makes it an ideal destination for travelers who want to stay within their budget. The entire experience becomes accessible when you plan ahead and make intelligent decisions about your spending. Combine these Cambodia travel tips with our money-saving advice below to enjoy an unforgettable yet affordable journey through the Kingdom of Wonder.
1. The best time to visit is during the low season.
The rainy season (May–Sep) is the perfect time for budget travel in Cambodia. The weather shows a mix of rain and sunshine throughout most days. The natural world transforms into a vibrant green color while fewer people visit and travel costs for both hotels and flights become much more affordable.
Based on information provided by Google Flights Skyscanner and Kayak, the table below shows air ticket prices to Cambodia from various continents:
Monthly airfare trends from various continents to Cambodia — red arrows show price increases, green arrows show decreases, and yellow arrows indicate stable or affordable months.
2. Eat like a local
People should avoid tourist restaurants because street food and local market stalls offer a better dining experience. The local dishes Amok and Bai Sach Chrouk with grilled pork and rice and Nom Banh Chok Khmer curry noodles provide delicious flavors at prices between $1-3.
If you’re not a fan of street food and have a bit more money to spare, you should check out these tasty dining spots below:
- Sambo–Khmer & Thai Restaurant
- Address: Wat Damnak Located At The Rear Entrance Of Art Center Night Market, Siem Reap 17000 Cambodia.
- Tel.:+855 17 293 230/+855 97 638 0587
- Website: Sambo – Khmer & Thai Restaurant
- TripAdvisor: Sambo – Khmer & Thai Restaurant
- Chanrey Tree
- Address: Mondul 1 Village, Pokambor Ave Along Siem Reap Riverside, 50m before Preah Phrum Rath Pagoda, Siem Reap 17252 Cambodia.
- Tel.: +855 17 799 587
- Website: Chanrey Tree
- TripAdvisor: Chanrey Tree
3. Travel cheap and smart
Tuk-tuks are iconic in Cambodia, but always agree on a price in advance. Use apps like Grab or PassApp to check fair prices. The most affordable and secure option for long-distance travel requires taking inter-city buses or minivans through Giant Ibis and Virak Buntham companies.
4. Buy tickets wisely
The temple of Angkor Wat allows visitors to purchase day passes and multiple day tickets for entry. If you plan to stay 2+ days, consider the 3-day pass for better value. Phnom Penh along with Battambang and Kampot features numerous smaller temples and museums which allow visitors to enter without paying any fees.
5. Be smart with money
The official currency system in Cambodia employs both Riel (KHR) and USD but customers should use Riel for purchasing drinks and snacks to prevent unfavorable currency exchange rates and USD to pay for hotels or restaurants.
>>> Ready to explore Cambodia without breaking the bank? Start planning your low season adventure now by booking Fascinating Thailand and Cambodia 11 days Tour.
The low season brings some weather concerns to travelers who want to visit Cambodia but at the same time it provides the best opportunity to discover authentic Cambodia at the lowest prices. The lush vegetation around Angkor Wat creates a peaceful setting where visitors can experience genuine Cambodian culture while spending less money than they would expect.
If you’re looking for a trip that’s both budget-friendly and memorable, then Cambodia’s low season is definitely not to be missed. And if you need more itinerary advice, cheap flight deals, or full tour packages, don’t hesitate to contact us – your reliable companion on every journey!
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