Cambodia in August: Lush Greenery and Weather Tips

August in Cambodia is right in the middle of the wet season. While the mornings can be hot and humid, afternoons are interspersed by rain showers. The average temperatures in Cambodia in August range from 23°C to 32°C. Head to Siem Reap, a popular tourist destination in the country, or higher altitude regions if you prefer cooler temperatures. But you will still want to bring your umbrella or rain gear along. In the capital city, Phnom Penh, you can expect the mercury to hover around 29°C with high humidity.

For more seasonal overview, check out our guide on the best time to visit Cambodia.

Visiting Cambodia during the rainy season is a good idea if you are not big about tourist crowding popular sites. Just pack your rain gear, and you will be all set. Here are some other reasons why you should plan a trip to Cambodia in August:

• Lush greenery: One upside of visiting Cambodia during the wet season is that the rainforests and mountainsides are filled with lush greenery. It could very well be one of the best times to explore the country for nature lovers.
• Festivals: Cambodia celebrates its New year or “Bon Chol Chhnam Thmei” in August with music, dance and feast. Siem Reap also observes the Angkor Sankranti festival this month. The festival features cultural shows, traditional food and making of sand stupas around temples.
• Relaxed atmosphere: With fewer crowds around, you will have more peace and quiet to explore Cambodia’s temples and other attractions in the month of August.
• Better rates: A trip to Cambodia in August means accommodation rates and tours will be cheaper than other times of the year. With fewer tourists visiting the country, you can get discounts in tours and accommodations.

August can be an excellent month to visit Cambodia, particularly for nature lovers. This is one of the best times to enjoy the country’s lush greenery and wildlife.

Tonle Sap, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Southeast Asia, is a must-visit place in Cambodia in August. The lake is home to various bird and aquatic species. Enjoy a boat ride in the lake to discover its rich biodiversity. You can also visit the lake’s floating villages and learn about the culture and lifestyle of their inhabitants.

Cambodia’s cultural crown jewel and most popular tourist site, you can take a trip to Angkor Wat, which is not far away. In August, you will get to explore this mega ancient temple complex at your own relaxed pace. For a much quieter experience, visit the nearby temples such as Bayon Temple and Banteay Srei. They are among the least visited sites in the Angkor complex.

Other than Angkor Wat, we recommend you travel to Siem Reap which is also known for its beautiful French colonial architecture. Take a sightseeing tour of the city, which will tell you a lot about Cambodia’s history and culture. Visit the War Museum Cambodia if you want to learn more about the country’s civil war.

You can take a trip to Phnom Penh, that is the financial and cultural center of Cambodia. Here you can find a range of attractions and activities to enjoy. The city is filled with ancient temples and French and Khmer heritage. Some popular sites in Phnom Penh are the Royal Palace, the National Museum and the Killing Fields. Also, do not forget to check out the street food scene while you are in Phnom Penh.

If you do not mind a bit of rain, you will have a great time in Cambodia in August. You will get to explore the country’s top highlights and culture at your own pace, as the wet season keeps most travelers away from the country. If you are traveling on a budget, you can get plenty of low season deals on your tours and accommodations.

Planning a trip can be overwhelming, so let our travel experts take charge do the heavy lifting for you with the tailor-made trips to Cambodia. Just give them a few essential details, and they'll handle the rest. Additionally, our guide on how long to stay in Cambodia will aid your journey.