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Siem Reap

The gateway to one of the world’s most extraordinary cultural marvels, Angkor Wat, the city of Siem Reap in Cambodia is a must-visit destination on any Southeast Asia holiday.

The sheer grandeur of the ancient Angkor Archaeological Park earmarks this one of the world’s most majestic locations, where watching the sun rising beyond such intricately constructed temples is a moment never to be forgotten. Come for Angkor Wat, but stay for Siem Reap, where lively local markets, tempting restaurants and the unmistakeable flair of its French colonial heritage make it a city to embrace.

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What you’ll love most about Siem Reap

  • Explore the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where intricate carvings and towering temples reveal the grandeur of the Khmer Empire
  • Wander through the mystical Bayon Temple, famous for its giant stone faces that gaze out from the ancient ruins of Angkor Thom
  • Visit the peaceful Ta Prohm, where towering trees intertwine with stone ruins, creating a dramatic jungle setting that’s perfect for exploration
  • Discover the floating villages of Tonle Sap Lake, where life thrives on the water, with stilted houses and local markets offering a glimpse into rural Cambodian life
  • Experience the vibrant Pub Street, where lively markets, delicious street food, and bustling bars create an energetic atmosphere after a day of sightseeing
  • Learn about Cambodian culture and history at the Angkor National Museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that bring the ancient temples and their legacy to life
  • Part of the Angkor Wat complex in Cambodia

  • Floating village on Tonle Sap Lake, Cambodia

  • Ta Prohm Temple ruins, Angkor, Cambodia

  • Statues by the gate of Angkor Thom, Cambodia

  • Looking across the water to Angkor Wat, Cambodia

  • Wat Ek Phnom Temple, Battambang, Cambodia

  • Morning at Angkor Wat, Cambodia

  • Market vegetables, Siem Reap, Cambodia

  • Wall terrace elephants sculpture, Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

  • Sunrise over the UNESCO site of Ankor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

  • Rice fields of Siem Reap, Cambodia

  • Sunset over Tonle Sap Lake, Siem Reap, Cambodia

  • Traditional Cambodian dish

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 31℃
  • 33℃
  • 34℃
  • 35℃
  • 34℃
  • 33℃
  • 32℃
  • 32℃
  • 31℃
  • 31℃
  • 31℃
  • 30℃
  • 5
  • 6
  • 15
  • 21
  • 27
  • 27
  • 29
  • 29
  • 29
  • 27
  • 15
  • 8

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

Dry season is in full swing, making January one of the most popular times to explore Angkor Wat and the surrounding temples. Skies are clear, and humidity is low, offering ideal conditions for sunrise visits and tuk-tuk rides. Temperatures peak around 31°C - warm but manageable for sightseeing.

February

Expect similar conditions to January, with long, dry days and golden light over the temples. It's a great time to visit Tonlé Sap Lake, as the floating villages are easily accessible and the water levels are still relatively high.

March

Temperatures start to climb, and the air gets drier. While the mercury can rise to the mid-30s, early morning temple visits or afternoons by the pool offer the best of both worlds. Crowds begin to thin slightly toward the end of the month.

April

April is the hottest month of the year - often soaring above 35°C - but it's also one of the most festive. Khmer New Year (usually mid-month) transforms the city with water fights, music, and dancing. Be prepared for fun chaos and plenty of soaked t-shirts.

May

The first rains of the wet season begin to appear, bringing brief but cooling afternoon showers. While the heat still lingers, the parched landscape starts to green. It’s a good time to experience a quieter Siem Reap as visitor numbers drop off.

June

Lush vegetation returns as the rains grow more consistent. Mornings are usually dry, making them perfect for sightseeing, while the rains mostly come in the late afternoon. The countryside takes on a vivid green hue, and Angkor’s moats and reservoirs refill.

July

Rainfall increases, but so does the beauty of the landscapes. With fewer tourists around, temple visits are more serene. The occasional downpour adds drama to the skies - especially photogenic at Ta Prohm with its twisting tree roots and moss-covered stones.

August

Expect frequent showers, though rarely enough to derail plans. Travel becomes more immersive, with markets buzzing and rice paddies in full glow. Boat trips on Tonlé Sap are at their best now, thanks to high water levels.

September

The wettest month of the year. Flooding is possible in some areas, but adventurous travellers are rewarded with verdant landscapes and almost tourist-free temples. It’s a great time for photographers chasing reflections and dramatic storm clouds.

October

Rains begin to taper off, and the countryside remains lush and alive. October offers a mix of sunshine and rain - unpredictable, but beautiful. As the water recedes slightly, floating villages become even more photogenic, and walking paths open up.

November

Clear skies return, and with them, so do the tourists. The weather stabilises, humidity drops, and temple-hopping becomes more comfortable again. This is a transitional sweet spot - landscapes still green, but with dry, bright days returning.

December

Siem Reap enters peak travel season. Days are sunny and dry, and temperatures sit at a pleasant 28-30°C. Whether exploring Angkor Wat, enjoying a traditional Apsara dance show, or cycling through the countryside, December offers an ideal blend of climate and atmosphere.

Our Ratings

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Where to book


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The Internet Traveller are tailor-made holiday experts, crafting unforgettable multi-centre and long-haul getaways. With ATOL & ABTA bonding and first-hand destination knowledge, they take the stress out of planning and add the magic back into travel – all with industry leading service and unbeatable value.

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Hotels

  • Best of the Best
  • Life of Luxury
  • Unique & Fabulous
  • Creature Comforts
  • Basics covered

4* Shinta Mani Shack Resort, Siem Reap

The Shinta Mani Shack is a newly renovated Bensley-designed boutique property and enjoys a tranquil and leafy setting just a 15 minute tuktuk ride from the magnificent temples of Angkor Wat. Each of the courtyard-style resort’s 62 rooms and two Junior Suites enjoy first floor balcony views or direct access to the stunning swimming pool and flourishing tropical gardens.

Our Rating: Unique & Fabulous

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5* Anantara Angkor Resort & Spa, Siem Reap

On the outskirts of Siem Reap rests this modern and sophisticated resort, offering contemporary Khmer style, manicured gardens and a relaxing ambience. The closest resort to Angkor Wat, we find Anantara Angkor to be the perfect base for adventure – we recommend taking full advantage of the amazing VIP tours around Siem Reap. This boutique retreat features just 39 suites, all overlooking a beautiful courtyard adorned with tropical foliage.

Our Rating: Life of Luxury

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5* Heritage Suites Hotel, Siem Reap

Your first impressions are all French Colonial, the hotel’s exterior is from a bygone era of Siem Reap and guests can be collected from the airport by vintage Mercedes Benz. Inside this is a modern, stylish and truly boutique hotel with just 26 rooms and high levels of personal service; you will be met with a welcome drink, a cold towel and offered a 15 min Indian head massage to ease your way into your stay.

Our Rating: Life of Luxury

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