Cambodia In December: Weather, Festivals and Cultural Riches
If you’re looking for a destination that offers an unforgettable experience, Cambodia is the place to be. Plan your Cambodia holiday in December with our travel guide.
CAMBODIA WEATHER DECEMBER
In December, Cambodia experiences cooler temperatures and less rainfall, creating pleasant weather conditions for travellers. You can expect sunny days with average temperatures ranging from 22°C to 30°C (72°F to 86°F), making it an ideal time to explore the country’s beautiful landscapes and cultural attractions without being too hot or humid.
FESTIVALS IN DECEMBER
- Water Festival (Bon Om Touk): Celebrated in November or December, this festival marks the end of the rainy season and features boat races, concerts, and fireworks along the riverside in Phnom Penh.
- Angkor Wat International Half Marathon: Held in early December, this event attracts runners from around the world to participate in a scenic race through the ancient temples of Angkor Wat.
CULTURAL GEMS TO EXPLORE
- Royal Palace, Phnom Penh: Visit the Royal Palace complex in Phnom Penh to admire its elegant Khmer architecture, the Silver Pagoda with its shimmering floor made of silver tiles, and the Throne Hall showcasing traditional Cambodian art and artefacts.
- Angkor Wat Temples: Explore the magnificent temples of Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site, including the iconic Angkor Wat temple, Bayon temple with its stone faces, and Ta Prohm temple engulfed by jungle vegetation.
- National Museum of Cambodia: Discover Cambodia’s rich history and culture at the National Museum in Phnom Penh, home to a vast collection of Khmer sculptures, ceramics, and artefacts dating back to the Angkorian era.
- Floating Villages, Tonle Sap Lake: Experience rural Cambodian life by visiting the floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake, where you can see stilt houses, floating markets, and traditional fishing techniques.
- Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum: Pay homage to Cambodia’s tragic past at the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, which commemorate the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime.
BEST BEACHES IN CAMBODIA
- Sihanoukville Beach: Known for its vibrant atmosphere and various water sports activities.
- Koh Kong Beach: A secluded paradise with untouched natural beauty and peaceful surroundings.
- Otres Beach: A quieter alternative to Sihanoukville, perfect for relaxation and enjoying sunset views.
- Ream Beach: Located within Ream National Park, offering a tranquil setting and opportunities for nature exploration.
- You may like to read it: Guide to Solo Travel in Winter
What To Pack For Cambodia
- Lightweight and breathable clothing: Pack light, loose-fitting clothes made of breathable fabrics like cotton or linen to stay cool and comfortable in Cambodia’s warm December weather.
- Sun protection: Bring sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen with high SPF to shield yourself from the strong tropical sun.
- Insect repellent: Protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects by packing insect repellent containing DEET or other effective ingredients.
- Comfortable walking shoes: Go for comfortable walking shoes and footwear.
- Swimwear: Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit if you plan on visiting beaches, swimming pools, or waterfalls during your trip.
- Light rain gear: While December is relatively dry in Cambodia, it’s a good idea to pack a lightweight rain jacket or poncho in case of unexpected rain showers.
- Modest clothing for temple visits: As a sign of respect when visiting temples, especially Angkor Wat, pack lightweight, modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND BEFORE TRAVELLING TO CAMBODIA
Currency Information :
The currency used in Cambodia is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), although the US Dollar (USD) is widely accepted and used alongside the Riel.
Time Difference :
Cambodia is 7 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+7).
USEFUL APPS:
- Payment Apps: PayCly, Wing Online Payment, PayGo.
- Navigation Apps: GPS Route Planner, PassApp.
- Food Delivery Apps: Zomato, Swiggy, Foodpanda.
- Commutation Apps: PassApp, Grab, ExNet Taxi.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the December Cambodia travel guide offers a perfect blend of pleasant weather, vibrant festivals, and rich cultural treasures to explore. With cooler temperatures, less rain, and exciting events, it’s an ideal time to experience the beauty and charm of this fascinating country. Whether you’re marvelling at the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, sampling delicious Cambodian cuisine, or immersing yourself in the local culture, December promises unforgettable adventures and memories to cherish. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to discover the wonders of Cambodia during this magical time of the year.
