Prepare for Cold Season in Cambodia: Travel Tips & Tour Recommendations
When people think of Cambodia, they often imagine hot weather all year long. But if you ask locals, they will tell you that there is a special time of the year when the air feels fresh, the mornings are cool, and the countryside is full of life. This is Cambodia’s cold season, which usually comes between November and February. It is not cold like Europe or North America, but for us, waking up to a breeze around 18 degrees feels chilly enough to put on a scarf or light jacket.
This season is one of the best times to travel in Cambodia. The sky is clear, the sun is gentle, and the dust settles after the rains, leaving everything green and bright. In the mornings, you might see children wearing sweaters as they cycle to school, or vendors at the market warming their hands over a small charcoal stove while preparing breakfast noodles.
For travelers, the cold season is the perfect moment to explore. Early mornings at Angkor Wat are more comfortable without the heavy heat. You can cycle through rice fields with the cool wind on your face, stop at a village for palm cakes and fresh coconuts, or take a boat on Tonle Sap Lake while the water levels are still high and the floating villages are alive with activity.
Many visitors also enjoy going to Phnom Kulen National Park during this time. Walking under the shade of the forest, listening to the sound of waterfalls, and seeing families making offerings at the reclining Buddha feels different in the cool weather — more peaceful, more relaxed.
If you plan to come, bring a light jacket for the mornings, a scarf for the temples, and comfortable shoes for walking or cycling. During the day, it still gets warm, so light clothes are fine, but layering helps when you head out for sunrise.
At CWE Travel, we always encourage our guests to enjoy this season fully. A breakfast tour after watching the sun rise over Angkor Wat, a countryside cycling trip, or a day exploring Phnom Kulen are all experiences that feel even more special when the weather is kind. Cold season is also peak travel time in Cambodia, so it is good to book your tours early.
Cambodia has many faces, but the cold season is one of its most beautiful. The air is fresh, the people are smiling, and the journey feels easier. If you want to discover it for yourself, you can explore our tours on cwetravel.com and let us help you plan a trip that feels both authentic and memorable.
