Siem Reap in Rainy Season: The Ultimate Guide for 2025
Thinking about visiting the magical temples of Angkor Wat but worried about the rain? I get it! When I first planned my trip to Cambodia during the siem reap rainy season, I had so many questions. Would everything be flooded? Would I even be able to see the temples?
Spoiler alert: visiting during the wet months turned out to be one of my best travel decisions ever!
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Understanding the Siem Reap Rainy Season
The rainy season in Siem Reap runs from May to October, with the heaviest rainfall typically occurring during September and October. During these peak monsoon months, Siem Reap receives around 286 mm of rainfall spread across approximately 27 rainy days in September alone!
But here’s the thing that most travel guides won’t tell you: the rain in Cambodia isn’t like the all-day downpours you might expect. Instead, it often comes in short, intense bursts lasting just 1-2 hours, typically in the late afternoon or evening. This pattern means you can still enjoy most of your day exploring!
Key Weather Characteristics:
- Temperature: A comfortable 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F)
- Humidity: Peaks at around 75% in September
- Rainfall Pattern: Brief but intense afternoon/evening showers
Pros of Visiting Siem Reap During Rainy Season
When I visited Angkor Wat during the siem reap rainy season, I was blown away by the benefits that many travelers miss by avoiding these months. Here’s what makes it special:
1. Significantly Fewer Tourists
Imagine having those iconic temple shots without dozens of tourists in the background! During my visit in July, I often had entire sections of temples to myself, especially in the mornings.
The difference is dramatic – while the dry season can see over 10,000 daily visitors to Angkor Wat alone, rainy season numbers can drop by 40-60%. This means:
- Shorter lines everywhere
- Better photo opportunities
- More authentic experience
- More personal interactions with local guides
🌟 My Experience: I’ll never forget the magical moment when I had the entire central sanctuary at Ta Prohm (the famous “Tomb Raider temple”) completely to myself for nearly 15 minutes. My guide told me this would be impossible during peak season when you’d be shuffling through with hundreds of other visitors!
2. Lush, Vibrant Landscapes
The transformation of the landscape during the siem reap rainy season is truly spectacular. The countryside becomes a vibrant emerald tapestry, with:
- Rice paddies glistening with water
- Temple moats filled to capacity
- Forests surrounding temples at their most lush
- Amazing reflections in the water bodies around temples
I distinctly remember standing at Pre Rup temple after a light shower, watching the sun break through the clouds, illuminating the wet stones and creating the most magical golden glow. These are the moments you simply can’t experience during dry season!
3. Incredible Hotel Deals
Templation Hotel – My Top Rainy Season Pick
Pool Villas Eco-Friendly
During my trip, I stayed at this gorgeous property for just $95 per night – the same room goes for $180+ in December! They even upgraded me since they weren’t fully booked. The private pool was perfect for relaxing during brief afternoon rain showers.
Why I loved it:
- Spacious rooms with outdoor rain showers
- Excellent restaurant using local ingredients
- Free tuk-tuk service to town
- Attentive staff who remember your preferences
Price Range: $95-120/night during rainy season
One of my favorite perks of visiting during the siem reap rainy season is the amazing value you’ll find on accommodations. Many luxury hotels offer rooms at 30-50% off their high-season rates!
Here are some other great rainy season hotel options I recommend:
| Hotel | Category | Price (Rainy Season) | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Onederz Hostel | Budget | $18/night | Rooftop pool, social atmosphere |
| Viroth’s Hotel | Mid-range | $70/night | 50s style architecture, spa |
| Park Hyatt | Luxury | $150/night | 5-star services, central location |
| Jaya House River Park | Luxury | $155/night | Eco-friendly, riverside location |
4. Cooler Temperatures
Trust me, exploring temples in Cambodia’s dry season heat (which can reach a scorching 36°C in April) is EXHAUSTING. During the siem reap rainy season, temperatures are more moderate, usually between 25°C and 32°C, making temple exploration much more comfortable.
I found myself able to explore for longer periods without the heat exhaustion I experienced during a previous dry season visit.
💡 Pro Tip: Want to maximize your temple exploration during rainy season? Skip the midday break that most tourists take. I found that while everyone else retreated to their hotels between 11 AM and 2 PM, I could continue exploring comfortably due to the moderate temperatures, getting many areas completely to myself!
Cons of Visiting During Rainy Season
I believe in honest travel advice, so let’s talk about the challenges you might face during the siem reap rainy season:
1. Potential Flooding
Heavy rainfall, particularly in September and October, can sometimes lead to flooding in certain areas. In 2011, Siem Reap experienced severe floods that affected parts of the city and some temple access routes.
Based on my experience and local input, here’s what you should know:
- Main roads in Siem Reap city remain accessible even during heavy rain
- Some temple complexes might have limited access during peak monsoon
- Rural areas and dirt roads can become difficult to navigate
- Tonle Sap lake tours may be affected by high water levels (though sometimes this means more areas become accessible by boat!)
⚠️ Warning: The unpaved roads to outlying temples like Banteay Srei can become quite muddy and challenging after heavy rains. During my September visit, our tuk-tuk struggled on this route, and we eventually had to switch to a 4×4 vehicle. Budget extra time for these journeys during peak rainy season.
2. High Humidity
The humidity during siem reap rainy season peaks at around 75% in September, which can feel quite intense if you’re not used to tropical climates.
I found that bringing quick-dry clothing and planning indoor breaks during the hottest parts of the day helped tremendously. Most hotels and restaurants are well air-conditioned, providing welcome relief.
3. Limited Activity Options During Heavy Rain
While most days during the rainy season offer plenty of dry hours, there will likely be times when downpours limit your options. Some outdoor activities like cycling tours or street food walks might need to be rescheduled.
Essential Travel Tips for Siem Reap in Rainy Season
After spending two weeks navigating the siem reap rainy season, I’ve collected these practical tips to help you make the most of your experience:
Optimal Daily Schedule
I quickly learned that timing is everything during rainy season. Here’s the daily schedule that worked best for me:
- 5:00-11:00 AM: Prime temple exploration time (minimal rain)
- 11:00 AM-2:00 PM: Museum visits, lunch, or hotel relaxation (hottest part of day)
- 2:00-4:00 PM: More sightseeing or indoor activities
- 4:00-6:00 PM: Be prepared for potential rain (good time for spa treatments or relaxing)
- 7:00 PM onward: Dinner and evening activities (rain usually subsides)
Transportation Recommendations
My Recommended Temple Tour
Air-Conditioned Private Guide
For my temple explorations during rainy season, I booked this private tour with an air-conditioned car. Our guide Mr. Sokun was incredibly knowledgeable about both the temples and how to avoid the rain – he seemed to have a sixth sense for when showers were coming and adjusted our route accordingly!
What’s included:
- Private air-conditioned vehicle
- English-speaking guide with historical expertise
- Flexible itinerary adaptable to weather conditions
- Bottled water and cold towels
Price: $45 per person (based on 2 people)
Getting around during the siem reap rainy season requires a bit more planning:
- For temple visits: I highly recommend hiring a tuk-tuk with rain covers through apps like Grab or booking a private air-conditioned car (around $35-50/day)
- Within the city: The PassApp service provides reliable tuk-tuks with set prices
- Airport transfers: Pre-book through your hotel or use Klook’s private transfer service ($10-15)
Rain-Friendly Activities
When the skies open up, here are my favorite ways to spend time in Siem Reap:
- Explore the fascinating Angkor National Museum ($12 entry)
- Take a Cambodian cooking class – I loved the one at Lily’s Secret Garden ($25)
- Enjoy a traditional Khmer massage (around $10-15 for one hour)
- Shop at the covered Old Market or Angkor Night Market
- Visit Artisans Angkor to see traditional crafts being made
How to Save Money During Rainy Season:
- Book accommodations directly through hotel websites – many offer rainy season specials not available on booking platforms
- Purchase a 3-day temple pass ($62) instead of individual day passes ($37 each) – the flexible schedule allows you to wait for better weather
- Negotiate tuk-tuk rates for multiple days – I secured a 30% discount by booking the same driver for my entire stay
- Visit the Angkor National Museum on Thursdays when they offer 20% discounts
What to Pack for Siem Reap in Rainy Season
Packing strategically for the siem reap rainy season can make or break your experience. Here’s my tried-and-tested packing list:
Rain Gear Essentials
- Lightweight rain jacket – I use this packable rain jacket from Amazon that folds into its own pocket
- Umbrella – Though you can buy cheap ones locally for about 2,000 riel (less than $0.50)
- Waterproof phone case – Essential for protecting your phone while taking photos
- Dry bag – Perfect for keeping camera gear and valuables protected
Footwear
- Waterproof sandals – My Teva Original Universal sandals were perfect for wet conditions
- Quick-drying sneakers – For longer temple hikes
- Flip-flops – For casual use around hotels and restaurants
🌟 My Experience: After a particularly heavy downpour at Bayon temple, the stone walkways became quite slippery. I was incredibly grateful for my Teva sandals with their grippy soles, while I watched other tourists in flip-flops struggling to maintain their footing. Proper footwear is truly a rainy season essential!
Clothing
- Quick-dry shirts and pants – Cotton takes forever to dry in high humidity
- Lightweight, modest clothing – Remember that temples require covered shoulders and knees
- Swimwear – For hotel pools and those surprise sunny afternoons
- Hat with good coverage – For sun protection during dry spells
Health Items
- High-DEET mosquito repellent – Mosquitoes are more active during rainy season
- Anti-itch cream – Just in case those mosquitoes are persistent
- Electrolyte packets – To stay hydrated in the humid climate
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes – For quick clean-ups after muddy temple explorations
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Cultural Festivals During Siem Reap Rainy Season
One of the unexpected benefits of visiting during the siem reap rainy season is the chance to experience unique cultural celebrations. These authentic events offer insights into Cambodian traditions that many dry-season tourists miss:
Royal Ploughing Ceremony (May)
This ancient ceremony marks the beginning of the rice-growing season and features royal oxen ploughing a ceremonial field. The oxen are then offered various foods, and their choices are believed to predict the coming year’s harvest.
I was fortunate to witness this ceremony during my May visit, and it was a fascinating glimpse into Cambodia’s agricultural traditions.
King Norodom Sihamoni’s Birthday (May 13-15)
If you’re visiting in mid-May, you might catch the celebrations honoring Cambodia’s current monarch. The festivities include:
- Colorful parades
- Traditional dance performances
- Special temple offerings
- Decorated streets throughout Siem Reap
Hungry Ghosts Festival (Late September)
Pchum Ben Festival Experience
Cultural Immersion Local Guide
During my late September visit, I was able to experience the Pchum Ben festival with the help of my hotel’s cultural concierge. This special tour allowed me to join local families making pre-dawn offerings at a nearby temple, followed by a traditional breakfast. It was one of the most authentic cultural experiences I’ve ever had while traveling.
What to expect:
- Pre-dawn visit to a local temple (not a tourist site)
- Opportunity to make traditional offerings
- Explanation of cultural significance
- Shared meal with community members
Availability: Late September (dates vary by lunar calendar)
This Buddhist festival (known locally as Pchum Ben) is a time when Cambodians honor their ancestors by making offerings at temples. During this 15-day celebration, you’ll see locals dressed in white, carrying food offerings to temples before dawn.
While some businesses may operate on reduced hours during major festival days, the cultural richness you’ll experience more than makes up for any minor inconveniences.
Making the Most of Your Trip During Rainy Season
After spending time in Siem Reap during the wet months, I’ve discovered some special ways to embrace the siem reap rainy season and turn potential challenges into unique opportunities:
Photography Tips for Rainy Season
The light conditions during and after rain showers create magical photography opportunities:
- Capture reflections in the water-filled moats around temples
- Wait for the “golden hour” after rain when everything seems to glow
- Look for dramatic storm clouds as backgrounds for temple shots
- Use puddles for creative reflection shots of the temples
I found August to be particularly great for photography, with the perfect balance of rain and sunshine creating dramatic skies and lush surroundings.
💡 Pro Tip: Pack a microfiber cloth in an easily accessible pocket. After rain showers, I would quickly wipe down my camera lens to prevent water droplets from ruining shots. This simple habit saved countless photos during my rainy season temple explorations.
Best Temples to Visit in Rainy Season
While all temples are accessible during most of the rainy season, some offer particularly special experiences:
- Angkor Wat – The main moat fills completely, creating perfect reflection shots
- Ta Prohm – The famous “Tomb Raider temple” looks even more atmospheric with wet moss-covered stones
- Neak Pean – This water temple is actually more impressive when surrounded by water as originally intended
- Banteay Srei – The intricate pink sandstone carvings look their best when slightly dampened by rain
Culinary Experiences
The siem reap rainy season coincides with harvest time for many local ingredients, making it a fantastic time for foodies:
- Try Fish Amok – Cambodia’s national dish is at its best during rainy season when freshwater fish are abundant
- Visit the Siem Reap Food Tours for guided street food experiences between rain showers
- Enjoy fresh tropical fruits like mangosteen and rambutan that are in season during these months
I recommend spending at least one rainy afternoon at Cuisine Wat Damnak, where the seasonal tasting menu showcases the best local ingredients available during the wet months.
FAQs About Visiting Siem Reap in Rainy Season
After receiving numerous questions about my experiences during the siem reap rainy season, I’ve compiled the most common queries with my honest answers:
What is the best time to visit Siem Reap?
It really depends on your preferences! The dry season (November to April) offers reliable sunshine but comes with larger crowds and higher prices. The siem reap rainy season (May to October) provides lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and better deals, but with the risk of occasional rain disruptions.
For the ideal balance, I personally recommend June or early July when rainfall is moderate but the landscape has already turned green.
What is the rainiest month in Siem Reap?
September is typically the wettest month, with an average of 286 mm of rainfall spread across about 27 rainy days.
Can you visit Angkor Wat in the rain?
Absolutely! Angkor Wat remains open year-round, and visiting during or after a light rain can be a unique experience with fewer crowds and enhanced atmosphere. Just be prepared with appropriate rain gear and waterproof shoes.
What month is rainy in Cambodia?
The rainy season in Cambodia generally runs from May to October, with September and October being the wettest months.
Is it worth visiting Cambodia in rainy season?
Based on my multiple visits, I can confidently say YES! The siem reap rainy season offers a more authentic experience, stunning green landscapes, and significant cost savings. The rain is rarely constant enough to ruin your trip if you plan activities flexibly.
Final Thoughts on Experiencing Siem Reap in Rainy Season
After spending several weeks exploring Siem Reap during the wet months, I’ve come to appreciate the unique magic that the siem reap rainy season brings to this already spectacular destination.
Yes, you’ll encounter some rain and possibly need to adjust plans occasionally, but in return, you’ll experience Cambodia’s ancient temples and vibrant culture in a way that most tourists never do – with lush green surroundings, dramatic skies, and blissfully smaller crowds.
From watching the sunrise at Angkor Wat without hundreds of other tourists jostling for position, to photographing temple reflections in rain-filled moats, to enjoying luxury accommodations at budget prices – the rainy season offers experiences that simply aren’t possible during the dry months.
So pack your rain jacket, book those discounted flights, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in Siem Reap. The temples have stood for centuries through countless monsoons – a little rain won’t diminish their majesty, and might just enhance your appreciation of them.
Ready to Experience the Magic of Rainy Season in Siem Reap?
Don’t miss out on lower prices, fewer crowds, and lush green landscapes. The perfect adventure awaits!
Ready to book your rainy season adventure to Siem Reap?
I recommend securing your accommodation early to get the best rainy season deals. Check out these options:
- Templation Hotel – Gorgeous pool villas at off-season rates
- Jaya House River Park – Eco-friendly luxury with amazing staff
- Onederz Hostel – Budget-friendly with a rooftop pool
And don’t forget to book your Angkor temple tour with a knowledgeable guide who can navigate rainy season conditions!
Have you visited Siem Reap during rainy season? Or do you have questions about planning your trip? Share your experiences or queries in the comments below!
