Weather in Phnom Penh

Find out what weather awaits you in Phnom Penh. Below is the freshest information, forecasts, and useful weather data for your journey.

Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, welcomes guests with a tropical climate, characterised by hot and humid weather throughout the year. The average annual temperature fluctuates between 27-30°C. Even in the "coolest" months, such as December and January, with an average temperature of about 27°C, the thermometer rarely drops below 22-23°C. And during the hottest periods, especially in March and April, the daytime temperature can regularly rise to 35°C and above.

Two main seasons are clearly observed in Phnom Penh's climate: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season usually lasts from December to April. During this time, precipitation is minimal: from December to March, the amount is only 0-1 mm per month, and the number of rainy days ranges from 2 to 5. April, concluding the dry season, remains very hot (average maximum temperature about 35.2°C) and marks the beginning of increased precipitation up to 2 mm with 12 rainy days. The rainy season generally covers the period from May to October. During these months, the number of rainy days increases significantly, reaching 23-28 days in peak months such as July, August, and September. At the same time, according to the provided data, precipitation volumes remain moderate, amounting to 5-8 mm per month, which indicates frequent but perhaps not overly intense rains. November serves as a transitional month from the wet season to the dry one, when the amount of precipitation (4 mm) and rainy days (15) noticeably decreases.

Thus, when planning a trip to Phnom Penh, it is worth being prepared for warm or hot weather at any time of the year. The main difference lies in the humidity level and the probability of precipitation, which are determined by the change of seasons. The period from December to February is traditionally considered the most comfortable for visiting. During these months, the heat is felt less intensely compared to the peak values of March and April, and rains are unlikely (0-1 mm of precipitation and only 2-5 rainy days per month), creating favourable conditions for exploring the city and its attractions.

In Phnom Penh, warm weather characteristic of a tropical monsoon climate is observed year-round. The average annual temperature fluctuates slightly, remaining in a comfortable range. The hottest month is usually April, when the average temperature reaches 30.8°C, and daytime highs can rise to 35.2°C. It is followed by March and May with average temperatures around 30°C and maximum values exceeding 34°C. The "coolest" months are considered to be December and January: the average temperature in December is about 26.7°C (with a minimum night temperature of about 22.9°C), and in January – 27.2°C (with a minimum night temperature of about 22.7°C).

The period from March to May can be characterised as the sultriest. During these months, the daytime heat is felt most strongly, especially in April, when the thermometer regularly surpasses the 35°C mark. Nights also remain very warm, with minimum temperatures rarely dropping below 25-26.5°C. This means that even after sunset, there is no substantial relief from the heat. Such weather, especially combined with the beginning of the rainy season in May, can feel quite stifling and humid.

The so-called "winter" period, covering the months from November to February, brings more moderate temperatures. During the day, the air warms up on average to 30.5°C - 33.1°C, which is still very warm, but not as exhausting as during the peak heat. Nights become noticeably cooler, with minimum temperatures dropping to 22.7°C - 24.2°C. During these months, more significant daily temperature fluctuations are observed: the difference between the daily maximum and nightly minimum can reach 9-10°C (for example, in January and February), which ensures more comfortable conditions, especially in the evening and at night.

In Phnom Penh, the pattern of precipitation is clearly subject to two main seasons: dry and wet. This division determines both the amount of rain and its frequency throughout the year.

The dry season in Phnom Penh lasts approximately from December to April. During this period, precipitation becomes a great rarity. The driest month is February, when, according to average data, no precipitation falls at all (0 mm), and the number of rainy days is only about two. In January and March, the situation is similar: only 1 mm of precipitation falls, distributed over 3-4 days, indicating extremely insignificant and rare moisture. April, closing the dry period, brings a slight increase – up to 2 mm of precipitation and 12 rainy days, signalling the approach of the wet season.

From May to October, the rainy season dominates in Phnom Penh. At this time, the number of days with precipitation rises sharply. The highest frequency of rains is observed in September – an average of 28 rainy days. In the other months of this period (May, June, July, August, October), rain also falls very often, from 23 to 27 days per month. Notably, despite such high regularity, the total volume of falling precipitation remains comparatively small: maximum values of 8 mm per month are recorded in September and October, and in other months of the rainy season – 5-6 mm. This suggests that this period in Phnom Penh is characterised by frequent, but likely not overly heavy or prolonged rains, rather than protracted tropical downpours.

November is a transitional month. The number of rainy days decreases to 15, and the total volume of precipitation reduces to 4 mm, marking a gradual transition from the wet season back to the dry one.

When planning a trip to Phnom Penh, it is important to choose your wardrobe correctly, considering its tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity year-round. The basis of your luggage should be light, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics, such as cotton or linen. T-shirts, shorts, skirts, and light trousers will be your best companions. Regardless of the season, do not forget sunscreen with high SPF, sunglasses, and headgear (a hat or cap) for protection against the intense sun. Comfortable walking shoes, such as sandals or light trainers, are absolutely essential for exploring the city.

In Phnom Penh, two seasons stand out clearly: dry (approximately from December to April) and wet (from May to October). In the dry season, especially from December to February, when precipitation is minimal (0-1 mm) and nights can be slightly cooler (minimum temperature about 22-23°C), you will still need light clothing. However, if you plan evening walks, you might bring a light cardigan or stole. In the rainy season (from May to October), when the number of rainy days increases significantly (up to 28 days in September), be sure to take a light raincoat or a compact umbrella. Although precipitation volumes are listed as moderate (5-8 mm per month), rains can be frequent. Clothes that dry quickly, and perhaps waterproof shoes or sandals that are not afraid of water, will be very useful. Also, insect repellent may be useful during this period.

Given the hot weather year-round, the principle of layering is less relevant here than in regions with large temperature variations. However, when visiting temples and the Royal Palace, it is important to have clothing that covers your shoulders and knees out of respect for local traditions. A light scarf or sarong can be a versatile solution. Also, do not forget to take a reusable water bottle to maintain hydration in the hot climate conditions.