Cambodia weather in January
Below is a traveller-friendly breakdown of January’s climate across Cambodia, practical packing tips, where to go, and crowd & price expectations — distilled from Tonkin’s on-the-ground experience.
• Siem Reap: ~21–31 °C, rainfall ~10 mm (≈0–1 rain day).
• Phnom Penh: ~22–32 °C, dry air, breezy evenings.
• South coast & islands (Sihanoukville/Koh Rong): sea ~28 °C, calm seas, good visibility for snorkelling.
Based on multi-year climate normals for January.
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1. January Weather Overview (What to Expect)
Cambodia has two broad seasons: a dry season (roughly November–April) and a wet/green season (May–October). January sits squarely in the dry season, delivering:
- Rainfall: minimal to near-zero for most travellers (brief light showers are possible but uncommon).
- Temperatures: typically 26–32 °C daytime highs in Siem Reap/Phnom Penh; cooler nights in the northeast highlands (~18–21 °C).
- Humidity: lower than other months, giving clearer skies and better visibility at sunrise/sunset.
- Beach & Sea: calm seas and warm water along the Gulf of Thailand; sea temperatures around ~28 °C.
- Comfort level: peak — one of the best months for long sightseeing days.
January Climate Snapshot by Region
| Region / Base | Average High (°C) | Average Low (°C) | Rainfall (mm) | Rain Days | Humidity (%) | Sea Temp (°C) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Siem Reap (Angkor) | 31 | 21 | ~10 | 0–1 | 60–65 | — |
| Phnom Penh (Capital) | 32 | 22 | ~10 | 0–1 | 58–62 | — |
| Sihanoukville / Kep / Kampot | 30 | 24 | ~15 | 0–2 | 65–70 | ~28 |
| Mondulkiri / Ratanakiri (Highlands) | 26 | 17–19 | ~10 | 0–2 | 55–60 | — |
Note: These are typical January averages based on long-term climate normals. Local micro-climates and year-to-year variation can occur.
2. Where to Go in January (Best-Fit by Traveller Type)
With dry skies from the Tonlé Sap to the Gulf of Thailand, you can’t go far wrong in January. Use this quick selector to match your style to the right region:
| Traveller Profile | Go Here | Why in January | Top Experiences |
|---|---|---|---|
| First-timers & culture lovers | Siem Reap (Angkor) | Cool mornings, low humidity, clear sunrise/sunset views | Angkor sunrise, Ta Prohm, Bayon faces, countryside bike |
| City & food | Phnom Penh | Breezier evenings for riverside walks; minimal showers | Royal Palace, National Museum, street-food sampling |
| Beach & snorkelling | Kep, Kampot & islands off Sihanoukville | Calm seas, warm water, golden afternoons | Crab market (Kep), pepper farms (Kampot), island time on Koh Rong / Koh Rong Samloem |
| Wildlife & soft adventure | Mondulkiri & Ratanakiri | Cool, dry trails; waterfalls at comfortable flow | Ethical elephant sanctuaries (no riding), hill-tribe villages, crater lakes |
Siem Reap & Angkor
Expect crisp mornings and translucent light at dawn and dusk — perfect for the moat reflections at Angkor Wat. Mid-day can still feel warm, so schedule shaded temple interiors (like Bayon) or a pool break back at your hotel. Pro tip: book a sunrise slot and a late-afternoon circuit; use mid-day for Siem Reap Old Market or the Angkor National Museum.
Phnom Penh
The capital is lively yet comfortable in January. Riverside evenings along Sisowath Quay are breezy, and the city’s café scene hums. If you plan to visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum or the Choeung Ek memorial, mornings are quieter and cooler.
Kep, Kampot & the Islands
Down on the coast, January is sun-splashed and rarely stormy. Sea temperatures are balmy (~28 °C) with good visibility for snorkelling. Pair lazy days in Kep (fresh crab with green pepper) with a pepper farm tour in Kampot, then hop to Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem for beach-time.
Mondulkiri & Ratanakiri
In the northeast highlands, mornings can drop below 20 °C — bring a light layer. Trails are dry and rivers clear, which suits waterfall hikes and ethical elephant experiences (observe-and-walk programs).
3. Events & Festive Notes in January
- Temple dawns: crystal-clear sunrise at Angkor is a January signature — arrive early to secure a front-row spot.
- Lunar/Chinese New Year (date varies): 2025 falls on 29 Jan; 2026 falls on 17 Feb. Some businesses may close briefly; major hubs can see higher hotel prices — book early.
- Island vibe: more sunset boats and beach barbecues operate in dry-season months.
4. Practical Tips for January Travellers
- Packing list: breathable clothing, hat, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, light scarf, and a thin sweater for Mondulkiri/Ratanakiri mornings.
- Temple etiquette: shoulders and knees covered; bring a light cover-up for comfort and respect.
- Crowds & pricing: January is peak season; pre-book stays in Siem Reap and on popular islands.
- Hydration: carry a refillable bottle; many hotels have refill stations.
- Sun strategy: plan outdoor walking 06:00–10:30 and 15:30–18:30; keep mid-day for museums, lunch, or a pool break.
5. Frequently Asked Questions (January, Cambodia)
Is January a good month to visit Cambodia?
Yes — the best for most travellers. Expect dry sunshine, comfortable daytime temperatures (~26–32 °C depending on region) and minimal rain. This is peak season for Angkor temples and beach breaks.
Where is the best place in Cambodia in January?
For culture, Siem Reap (Angkor) has the most comfortable walking weather of the year. For beaches, choose Kep, Kampot and the islands off Sihanoukville — calm seas and warm water make snorkelling easy.
How hot is Siem Reap in January?
Typically around 31 °C by afternoon with cool mornings near 21–22 °C. Humidity is lower than most months, so long temple days feel much easier than later in the year.
Is the sea warm enough for swimming?
Yes — average sea temperatures along the south coast and islands sit around ~28 °C in January, with generally calm conditions.
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