Weather in Cambodia in April

Located in Southeast Asia, Cambodia has a monsoon climate with dry and rainy seasons. The weather in Cambodia in April is extremely hot and dry. April falls in the shoulder season, but the temperatures are increasingly hot. It's an excellent time to visit if you enjoy hot weather, as crowds are thinner at some of the most popular destinations, particularly the incredible Angkor Wat. Because of the heat, it is best to go sightseeing during the cooler mornings or late afternoons.

Cambodia in April at a glance

April is Cambodia at its hottest, with intense sunshine and peak dry-season conditions, but it is also a fun month for festivals and lively street energy.

• The weather is very hot and dry, with strong sun and little rain until late in the month.
• Average temperatures usually fall around 82 to 97°F (28 to 36°C), with midday heat feeling even higher in cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
• April can still be a good time to visit if you can handle the heat, since it is great for temples early in the day and beach time later on.
• Crowds are moderate, but can spike around Khmer New Year in mid April, especially in Siem Reap and popular tourist areas.

What is the weather like in Cambodia in April? 

April is one of the hottest months in Cambodia, and you’ll feel it. This is the tail end of the dry season, just before the rains really begin. The heat builds throughout the day, so most people get moving early—sunrise temple visits, morning markets, or shaded cafes for breakfast. Afternoons are slower, sweatier, and often spent indoors or somewhere with a fan. 

Near the end of the month, you might catch a short, sharp rainstorm—usually over in time for dinner. Despite the heat, it’s a fascinating time to be here. Water levels are still low, so boat travel can be limited, but most roads stay dry and travel is straightforward. 

It’s also when Khmer New Year happens, so you might see (or get caught in) water fights and local celebrations. If you don’t mind the heat and plan your days right, April can still work—just pack light and stay hydrated. This can be a great time to plan your Cambodia itinerary.

Average daily temperatures in April

April is the hottest month in Cambodia, and you’ll feel it. Inland cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap regularly hit 95 to 100°F (35 to 38°C), sometimes spiking even higher. Nights don’t cool down much either, usually staying between 77 and 82°F (25 to 28°C), which means warm, sticky evenings. 

The coast is a bit more manageable. In Sihanoukville and other beach towns, sea breezes keep things closer to 88 to 93°F (31 to 34°C), and the water in the Gulf of Thailand sits at around 86°F (30°C). It’s still dry season, but you might get the occasional thunderstorm rolling through late in the day. 

These storms don’t last long but bring some much-needed relief. It’s intense, but manageable if you plan for the heat. Stay hydrated, start your days early, and make the most of air conditioning and shaded temples during the afternoons.

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Is April a good time to visit Cambodia?

If you enjoy the sun, this is the best time of year to plan a few days of relaxation. Head on to the south coast beaches of Sihanoukville, Kep, or the smaller islands of Koh Rong and Kong Rong Samloem. As we get deeper into April, the occasional tropical storm may bring some refreshing rain to the parched land, but these will be fleeting at this time of year.

You can surely expect occasional rain showers to interrupt your outdoor activities, but the lush landscapes and reduced tourist density provide a unique charm to the visit. Travelers willing to embrace the transition to the wet season can enjoy the beauty of Cambodia's tropical splendor during this time. For more tips, see our guide to how to plan a trip to Cambodia. 

• Excellent sunny weather for beach relaxation early in the month
• Beautiful south coast beaches and islands
• Reduced tourist crowds provide unique charm
• Lush tropical landscapes
• Occasional rain showers and storms begin late in the month

What about the crowd & cost?

Tourist numbers are lower than during the peak of the dry season due to the weather in Cambodia in April. The reduced crowd density allows for a more relaxed atmosphere at popular attractions. The rising heat means fewer tourists, which is great news if you want to see the country's highlights without large crowds.

With the country entering the wet season, some accommodations and services may offer competitive pricing. 

To avoid crowds, consider visiting Cambodia during the shoulder season. Alternatively, exploring Cambodia in the low season can bring cost advantages, but be prepared for occasional heavy rainfall.  If you're still deciding, see our guide to the best time to visit Cambodia. 

Where to go in Cambodia in April

April is Cambodia’s hottest month, but it’s also a time of celebration and dramatic landscapes.

Siem Reap

April can be intense in Siem Reap, with long, dry afternoons and sticky nights. But if you plan around the heat, it’s still a good time to visit. Sunrise is the best time to explore Angkor’s temples — not just for the light, but for cooler temperatures and quieter paths. Between early morning walks and long lunches indoors, you’ll get a more local rhythm. Just before the Khmer New Year, the city fills with music, street vendors, and water fights, adding a chaotic charm.

Battambang

Battambang doesn’t always make it onto itineraries, which makes April a smart time to go. It’s smaller, more relaxed, and the slower pace suits the season. Rent a tuk-tuk in the early morning to explore hilltop temples and countryside villages. The bamboo train still runs, though the experience has changed. Stop by art spaces like Romcheik 5 or catch a performance at the Phare Ponleu Selpak circus school if it’s on. In the afternoons, hide out in a café or cool riverside gallery.

Kep and Kampot

On the southern coast, Kampot and Kep are less affected by the inland heat. The sea breeze helps, and you can cool off in the river or ocean. April is pepper season, so it’s a great time to visit a pepper farm and learn how Kampot’s famous spice is grown. Kep’s crab market is lively in the evenings, and the seafood is fresh. You’ll get misty mornings, green hills, and fewer crowds than in high season.

What to do in Cambodia in April

April is all about early starts, long lunches, and staying cool in the afternoon. 

Celebrate Khmer New Year

Held in mid-April, Khmer New Year (Chaul Chnam Thmey) marks the traditional lunar new year and is one of the biggest celebrations in Cambodia. Temples are filled with offerings, homes are cleaned, and families travel to see each other. In cities like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, the streets become water-soaked playgrounds. Tourists are welcome to join, but be prepared to get drenched. Outside of the chaos, it’s also a time for reflection, quiet blessings, and community gatherings.

Visit temples at sunrise

Because of the heat, sunrise becomes the best time to explore. Angkor Wat is the most famous, but temples like Banteay Srei, Preah Khan, and Ta Prohm have their own early morning magic. It’s cooler, quieter, and the light cuts through the trees in sharp gold lines. You’ll want a guide who knows how to time the route, especially as things heat up quickly by mid-morning. Wear light clothes and drink plenty of water.

Take a cooking class

With afternoons best spent out of the sun, April is a great time to learn to cook Cambodian food. Local cooking classes often start with a market visit, then move indoors for hands-on prep. Dishes might include fish amok, green mango salad, or banana flower soup, depending on the season. Many classes are run by local families or social enterprises, so it’s also a way to connect with Cambodian culture on a deeper level — while staying in the shade.

Plan your trip with our Cambodia itineraries

Our Cambodia itineraries are crafted to help you experience the best of the country, stress-free. Think of them as a starting point — perfect for planning, but flexible enough to adjust to your own pace and interests. After all, travel is about freedom, but a little planning goes a long way.

• Cambodia itinerary 7 days: A week in Cambodia lets you explore the highlights —spend a few days in Siem Reap discovering Angkor Wat and nearby temples, then head to Phnom Penh to learn about the country’s history and vibrant culture.
• Cambodia itinerary 10 days: With ten days, you can dive deeper by adding a visit to Kampot’s riverside charm and Kep’s coastal seafood scene, along with Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.
• Cambodia itinerary 14 days: Two weeks gives you time to experience Cambodia in full, from the temples of Angkor and Phnom Penh’s history to the peaceful beaches of Koh Rong and the rural landscapes around Battambang.