Cambodia weather in March

March marks the warm-up into Cambodia’s hottest months. Expect dry, sunny days with very little rain; early in the month daytime highs hover near 30 °C and climb as weeks pass. It’s still comfortable in the mornings and evenings, while midday can feel hot, especially on the plains. In the north-east highlands (Mondulkiri, Ratanakiri), mornings remain pleasantly cool and trails are dry, making light-adventure days easy to plan.

Cambodia weather in March – dry season sunshine

March Quick Facts — Cambodia
• Siem Reap: ~24–35 °C; rainfall ~10–15 mm (≈0–1 rain day).
• Phnom Penh: ~25–35 °C; very dry; occasional haze in still afternoons.
• South coast & islands (Sihanoukville/Koh Rong): sea ~29–30 °C, generally calm and clear.
Based on multi-year climate normals for March.

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1. March Weather Overview (What to Expect)

The dry season continues (Nov–Apr). Sunshine dominates, humidity is moderate, and showers are rare. Temperatures rise toward the end of the month, so plan temple and outdoor time for early morning and late afternoon.

Rainfall: very low nationwide; isolated brief showers possible but uncommon.
Temperatures: plains and cities often 32–35 °C by afternoon; nights around 23–25 °C. Highlands run a couple of degrees cooler.
Humidity: lower than in the upcoming wet season; heat stress peaks around noon.
Beach & Sea: calm Gulf of Thailand conditions; water ~29–30 °C.
Comfort level: high in mornings/evenings; use shade/indoor breaks midday.

March Climate Snapshot by Region

Region / Base	Average High (°C)	Average Low (°C)	Rainfall (mm)	Rain Days	Humidity (%)	Sea Temp (°C)
Siem Reap (Angkor)	34	24	~10–15	0–2	60–65	—
Phnom Penh (Capital)	35	25	~10	0–1	60–65	—
Sihanoukville / Kep / Kampot	32	26	~10–20	0–2	65–70	29–30
Mondulkiri / Ratanakiri (Highlands)	32–33	20–22	~5–10	0–2	55–60	—

2. Where to Go in March (Best-Fit by Traveller Type)

With sunshine almost everywhere, March suits both culture-heavy itineraries and beach time. Use this quick selector to match your style to the right region:

Traveller Profile	Go Here	Why in March	Top Experiences
First-timers & culture lovers	Siem Reap (Angkor)	Superb dawn light, minimal rain; plan a midday rest	Angkor sunrise, Ta Prohm, Bayon faces, countryside cycling
City & food	Phnom Penh	Dry riverside evenings; museums perfect for the hottest hours	Royal Palace, National Museum, craft coffee & street-food
Beach & snorkelling	Kep, Kampot & islands off Sihanoukville	Warm, clear water; calm seas ~29–30 °C	Kep crab market, Kampot pepper farms, Koh Rong/Koh Rong Samloem
Wildlife & soft adventure	Mondulkiri & Ratanakiri	Cooler mornings, dry trails, easier wildlife spotting	Ethical elephant sanctuaries (no riding), hill-tribe villages, crater lakes

Siem Reap & Angkor

Sunshine is almost guaranteed. Start at sunrise for reflections at Angkor Wat, then save shaded bas-reliefs (Bayon/Angkor Thom) for late morning. Rest or swim at noon and return for golden-hour circuits.

Phnom Penh

Warm, dry and lively. Riverside strolls on Sisowath Quay feel best after 16:00. For Tuol Sleng or Choeung Ek, go early; keep museums or cafés for the peak heat.

Kep, Kampot & the Islands

The south coast is in top form: steady sun, light winds and toasty water (~29–30 °C). Mix lazy beach hours with a Kampot pepper farm visit, then boat to Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem for snorkelling.

Mondulkiri & Ratanakiri

High-elevation mornings can sit near 20–22 °C. With dry paths and thinner foliage, short hikes and wildlife spotting are rewarding. Choose observe-and-walk elephant programs and avoid any riding activities.

3. Events & Festive Notes in March

Meak Bochea (Buddhist festival; date varies by lunar calendar). In some years it falls in late Feb or early Mar — candlelit processions at pagodas; check exact dates if you plan to attend.
International Women’s Day — 8 March (public holiday). Expect local celebrations and possible short-hour adjustments at some businesses.
Beaches & islands: sunset boats and beach barbecues continue through the dry season.

4. Practical Tips for March Travellers

Heat strategy: plan outdoors 06:00–10:30 & 15:30–18:30; keep mid-day for museums/lunch/pool.
Packing list: breathable fabrics, sun hat, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, electrolytes; a light layer for highland mornings.
Temple etiquette: shoulders and knees covered; carry a light cover-up.
Peak travel: pre-book popular hotels, sunrise temple slots and island boats.
Hydration: refillable bottle; many hotels provide water stations.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (March, Cambodia)

Is March a good month to visit Cambodia?

Yes — it’s still dry season with abundant sunshine. Expect rising heat toward midday; mornings/evenings remain comfortable for long walks and cycling.

How hot is Siem Reap in March?

Typically around 24–35 °C across the day. It feels hottest near noon, so plan early starts and a midday break.

Is March rainy in Cambodia?

No — rain is rare. Brief, light showers can occur but most days remain dry and sunny nationwide.

What is the sea temperature in March?

Around 29–30 °C off Sihanoukville and the islands — perfect for swimming and snorkelling, usually with calm seas.

Where should I go in March?

For culture, Siem Reap (Angkor). For beaches, Kep, Kampot and the islands off Sihanoukville. For cooler mornings and soft adventure, head to Mondulkiri and Ratanakiri.