Phnom Penh has a tropical monsoon climate, classified as Am in the Köppen system. The warmest month is March with an average high of 35°C, while the coldest month is January with lows dropping to 22°C. The annual temperature range of 13°C indicates a relatively stable climate year-round.
The driest month is February with only 2 rain days and 8mm of precipitation. For travellers, February through to the following month typically offers the best balance of warm temperatures and dry conditions. Average humidity ranges from 82% to 82% throughout the year.
Best Time to Visit Phnom Penh
Based on temperature and rainfall data, the best months to visit Phnom Penh are January, December, February. These months offer the most comfortable temperatures with relatively low rainfall, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
In March, Phnom Penh experiences average highs of 35°C (95°F) and lows of 25°C (77°F). Expect around 6 rainy days and 11 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 82%. The 10°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an overshirt or cardigan handles the cooler evenings. UV index averages 6, so sun protection is advisable on clear days.
Phnom Penh typically sees 6 rainy days in March, with total precipitation of around 39mm. This makes March one of the drier months of the year, and a reliable window for outdoor sightseeing and day trips. Rain showers tend to be brief when they do occur. For context, the driest month in Phnom Penh typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than March.
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing (linen or cotton), a wide-brim sun hat, SPF 50+ sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle for Phnom Penh in March. The 35°C daytime heat demands sun protection during midday hours, typically 11am to 4pm. Rain is unlikely with only 6 wet days, so leave the umbrella at home and use the bag space for sunscreen. Quick-dry synthetic fabrics are preferable to cotton in 82% humidity.
March is a reasonable time to visit Phnom Penh. Expect 6 rainy days, so pack a light rain layer for flexibility. Average temperatures of 35°C make outdoor exploration comfortable during the dry periods. With 11 daily sunshine hours, there are reliable windows of good weather to plan outdoor activities around, even if the month is not the driest on the calendar.
The average high temperature in Phnom Penh in March is 35°C (95°F), and the average low is 25°C (77°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 30°C (86°F). The day-to-night range of 10°C is moderate, meaning a single light jacket covers most situations. These are 30-year climate normals based on the 1991 to 2020 reference period; individual years will vary, particularly in transitional months like spring and autumn.
The best month to visit Phnom Penh is generally February. February offers the most sunshine at 11 hours per day and only 2 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 33°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around February gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.
March is shoulder or low season in Phnom Penh, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 11 sunshine hours and 6 rainy days, the weather is less of a draw for mass tourism. This is an advantage for travellers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience with shorter queues and easier accommodation availability.
In March, Phnom Penh suits a range of activities thanks to warm temperatures of 35°C. With few rainy days, outdoor activities are highly recommended. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. With 11 hours of sunshine, parks and waterfront walks are particularly enjoyable.