Best Time to Visit Angkor Wat (Weather, Events, & More)

Planning your trip to Cambodia and wondering about the best time to visit Angkor Wat? This iconic temple complex, a masterpiece of Khmer architecture, is a must-see for any traveler. To fully appreciate its beauty without the drawbacks of heavy crowds and harsh weather, timing your visit can make all the difference. In this guide, we'll explore the ideal months to visit Angkor Wat, ensuring you get the most out of your experience.

Best Overall Time to Visit Angkor Wat

The best time to visit Angkor Wat is typically between November and February when the weather is cooler and drier, making it more comfortable to explore the extensive temple complex. During these months, the humidity is lower, and the skies are clearer, offering stunning views of the ancient structures against a bright blue backdrop, perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Visiting Angkor Wat during the low season, which runs from June to October, has its pros and cons. On the upside, there are fewer tourists, which means you can enjoy a more serene experience and take photos without crowds. Additionally, the surrounding landscape is lush and green, enhancing the beauty of the temple ruins. However, the cons include the fact that it's the monsoon season, so expect heavy rainfall and potentially muddy conditions, which might make exploring a bit challenging. Also, some sections of the park may be less accessible due to flooding.

Monthly Overview of Angkor Wat

Detailed Monthly Analysis

Here’s what to expect in Angkor Wat in each month of the year:

Angkor Wat in January

Visiting Angkor Wat in January is a delight as it falls during the dry season, making it one of the best times to explore the ancient temples. The weather is cooler and more comfortable, and there's less likelihood of rain interrupting your adventures. Plus, the clear days provide perfect lighting for those unforgettable photographs of the majestic structures.

• Average Temperature: 26°C / 79°F
• Days of Rainfall: 2 days
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: High
• Activities: Sunrise tours, photography walks, cultural festivals

Angkor Wat in February

Visiting Angkor Wat in February is a delight as it falls during the dry season, making it one of the best times to explore the ancient temples. The weather is comfortably warm and the skies are clear, offering great conditions for photography and long days of exploration.

• Average Temperature: 26°C / 79°F
• Days of Rainfall: 2 days
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: High
• Activities: Sunrise tours, photography sessions, cultural festivals (e.g., Meak Bochea)

Angkor Wat in March

Visiting Angkor Wat in March is a fantastic experience as it's the tail end of the dry season. The weather is warm and the skies are mostly clear, making it ideal for exploring the ancient temples. The comfortable climate allows you to enjoy long days of sightseeing without the intense heat that comes later in the year.

• Average Temperature: 30°C / 86°F
• Days of Rainfall: 3 days
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Sunrise tours, photography sessions, cultural festivals

Angkor Wat in April

Visiting Angkor Wat in April is quite the experience as it's the tail end of the dry season, transitioning into the wet season. The weather is hot and humid, but the crowds are thinner than in peak tourist months, giving you a bit more space to explore the ancient ruins. The heat can be intense, so early morning or later afternoon visits are ideal to beat the midday sun.

• Average Temperature: 30°C / 86°F
• Days of Rainfall: 5-10 days
• Season: Transition from dry to wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Sunrise tours, photography sessions, exploring lesser-known temples

Angkor Wat in May

Visiting Angkor Wat in May offers a unique experience as it's the beginning of the wet season. The ancient temple complex is less crowded, and the surrounding jungle is vibrantly alive, thanks to the early rains. While you might encounter some showers, they're usually brief and can provide a refreshing break from the heat, enhancing the mystical atmosphere of the temples.

• Average Temperature: 28°C / 82°F
• Days of Rainfall: 15 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Photography tours in the softer light, exploring less crowded temples, attending the Visakha Bucha Day celebrations

Angkor Wat in June

Visiting Angkor Wat in June means you're stepping into the heart of Cambodia's wet season. The ancient stones of the temple complex are washed by frequent rains, which bring a mystical atmosphere and lush, vibrant surroundings. While the mornings might offer sunshine and clear skies, the afternoons often bring quick, heavy showers. It's a great time to capture stunning photographs without the crowds, as the rain tends to deter many tourists.

• Average Temperature: 28°C / 82°F
• Days of Rainfall: 15 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Exploring temple ruins in cooler morning weather, photography sessions during rain-washed afternoons, attending Apsara dance performances

Angkor Wat in July

Visiting Angkor Wat in July means you're stepping into a world of lush landscapes and dramatic skies. It's the heart of the wet season, so while you should prepare for frequent showers, these often occur in the late afternoon, allowing the mornings to remain relatively clear for temple exploration. The rain adds a mystical touch to the ancient stones and provides a respite from the crowds of peak tourist seasons.

• Average Temperature: 28°C / 82°F
• Days of Rainfall: 15 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Exploring temples in cooler morning weather, photography with dramatic skies and lush greenery, attending Apsara dance performances.

Angkor Wat in August

Visiting Angkor Wat in August is quite the adventure! It's the heart of the wet season, so the ancient temple complex is surrounded by a vibrant, lush landscape. While the frequent showers might seem daunting, they're typically short-lived and often occur in the afternoon. This pattern allows you to enjoy cooler mornings and evenings exploring one of the world's most stunning archaeological sites.

• Average Temperature: 28°C / 82°F
• Days of Rainfall: 20 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Photography tours in the early morning, exploring less crowded temple areas, attending Apsara dance performances

Angkor Wat in September

Visiting Angkor Wat in September is a unique experience as it coincides with the tail end of the wet season. The ancient temple complex is surrounded by verdant foliage and the moats are full, giving the whole area a mystical appearance. Rainfall is frequent but often occurs in the late afternoon or evening, which can provide a dramatic backdrop to your temple explorations and cooler temperatures during the day.

• Average Temperature: 27°C / 81°F
• Days of Rainfall: 20 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Watching the sunrise over Angkor Wat, photography tours in softer light, exploring less crowded temples

Angkor Wat in October

Visiting Angkor Wat in October is a unique experience as it's the tail end of the wet season. The ancient temple complex is surrounded by nature that is vibrant and full of life thanks to the recent rains. While you might encounter some showers, they are typically brief and can provide a refreshing break from exploring the vast site. The cooler, overcast days can also make for more comfortable exploration and stunning photography conditions with fewer crowds.

• Average Temperature: 27°C / 81°F
• Days of Rainfall: 15 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Exploring temple ruins in cooler weather, photography tours with dramatic skies, attending the Phare Cambodian Circus

Angkor Wat in November

Visiting Angkor Wat in November is a magical experience as it marks the transition from the wet to the dry season. The weather is cooler and more comfortable, making it ideal for exploring the vast temple complexes. The surrounding landscapes are lush and vibrant, offering stunning photographic opportunities, especially with fewer rain interruptions.

• Average Temperature: 25°C / 77°F
• Days of Rainfall: 10 days
• Season: Transition from wet to dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Sunrise tours, photography walks, cultural festivals (like the Bon Om Touk, or Water Festival)

Angkor Wat in December

Visiting Angkor Wat in December is a truly magical experience. The weather is cooler and drier, making it ideal for exploring the vast temple complexes. With fewer rainy days, you can enjoy long, uninterrupted days of sightseeing. Plus, the cooler temperatures make walking around the expansive site much more comfortable.

• Average Temperature: 26°C / 79°F
• Days of Rainfall: 2 days
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: High
• Activities: Sunrise tours, photography sessions, cultural festivals

Special Events in Angkor Wat to Look Out For

Angkor Wat International Half Marathon

• Date: Early December
• Description: A charitable race that attracts runners from around the world, offering a unique opportunity to run amidst the historical temples of Angkor Wat.

Khmer New Year

• Date: April 14th to April 16th
• Description: Celebrated over three days, this festival marks the traditional Lunar New Year. Locals visit temples, play traditional games, and enjoy festive meals with family and friends.

Visak Bochea Day

• Date: May (date varies according to the lunar calendar)
• Description: A significant Buddhist festival commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha. Devotees gather at Angkor Wat to light candles and make offerings.

Pchum Ben

• Date: September or October (date varies)
• Description: Also known as Ancestors' Day, this 15-day festival involves Cambodians paying respects to deceased relatives by offering food at temples.

Angkor Festival

• Date: November
• Description: A cultural event showcasing traditional Khmer dance, music, and arts at various locations around Angkor Wat, aiming to preserve and promote Cambodian culture.

Water Festival (Bon Om Touk)

• Date: November (date varies)
• Description: Although more famously celebrated in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap also hosts boat races and other festivities near Angkor Wat, marking the end of the rainy season and the reversal of the Tonle Sap River's flow.

Pro Tips for Traveling to Angkor Wat

• Cash Over Cards: Always have cash on hand as many vendors near Angkor Wat do not accept credit cards, especially in smaller shops or for entrance fees.
• Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is not customary in Cambodia, but it is appreciated for exceptional service. Consider leaving a small tip for guides or drivers.
• Stay Hydrated with Bottled Water: Drink only bottled water, as tap water is not safe to drink. Also, use it for brushing your teeth.
• Dress Respectfully: When visiting Angkor Wat, dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees, as it is a sacred site.
• Try Local Cuisine: Sample Cambodian dishes such as Fish Amok (steamed curried fish), Beef Lok Lak (stir-fried beef), and Khmer Curry.
• Be Culturally Sensitive: Ask for permission before taking photographs of local people or monks. It’s respectful and often appreciated.
• Bargain with a Smile: Bargaining is common in local markets, but always do it respectfully and with a smile.
• Use Tuk-Tuks Wisely: For short distances around Angkor Wat, tuk-tuks are a convenient option. Agree on the fare before the journey to avoid misunderstandings.
• Learn Basic Khmer Phrases: Knowing simple phrases like "Hello" (Sour sdey) and "Thank you" (Or kun) can enhance your interactions with locals.
• Protect Yourself from the Sun: The Cambodian sun can be fierce, especially during midday. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself.

Angkor Wat Travel FAQ

Do I need a visa to visit Angkor Wat?
Yes, you'll need a visa to visit Cambodia, where Angkor Wat is located. Tourists can opt for an e-visa in advance or get a visa on arrival that's valid for up to 30 days. Make sure to check the latest visa requirements based on your nationality before your trip.

What currency is used in Cambodia?
The Cambodian Riel (KHR) is the official currency, but US Dollars are also widely accepted, especially in tourist areas like Siem Reap. It's a good idea to carry some local currency for small purchases.

What should I pack for a trip to Angkor Wat?
Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to the hot and humid climate. Include a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against the sun. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the temples. Don't forget to pack a raincoat or umbrella if you're visiting during the rainy season from May to October.

Do I need to speak Khmer to visit Angkor Wat?
No, you don't need to speak Khmer. English is commonly spoken in major tourist spots like Siem Reap. However, learning a few basic phrases in Khmer can be helpful and is often appreciated by locals.

Is Angkor Wat safe for tourists?
Angkor Wat is generally safe for tourists. However, it's important to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas, and keep an eye on your belongings. Always follow local advice and respect the rules and customs of the temple complex.

Is Angkor Wat accessible for those with disabilities?
Accessibility is limited at Angkor Wat and other temples in the area due to uneven terrain and stairs. Some efforts have been made to improve access, such as wooden ramps at certain locations, but visitors with mobility challenges may find it difficult to access many areas.

What type of outlet is used in Cambodia?
Cambodia uses Type A, Type C, and Type G electrical outlets. The standard voltage is 230V. It's a good idea to bring a universal adapter if your devices use different plugs.

What are the best months to visit Angkor Wat?
The best time to visit Angkor Wat is during the dry season from November to April when the weather is cooler and less humid. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

Can I take photos inside Angkor Wat?
Yes, you can take photos inside Angkor Wat and the surrounding temples. However, it's important to be respectful and avoid using flash photography, especially in enclosed spaces. Also, note that commercial photography might require special permissions.

Are there any cultural norms I should be aware of when visiting Angkor Wat?
Yes, Angkor Wat is a sacred site, and it's important to dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees. Be respectful when taking photos, especially of monks or worshippers. It's also customary to remove your shoes before entering some of the temple structures.