Phnom Penh in April
Good time to visit
April is brutally hot but the Khmer New Year celebrations make it culturally rewarding. Most tourists flee the heat, so you'll have attractions to yourself - if you can handle the temperature.
Weather
April delivers Phnom Penh's hottest temperatures of the year with oppressive heat and building humidity. Occasional afternoon thunderstorms provide brief relief but make the air even more muggy. The heat index often exceeds 40°C.
36°C high26°C low7 rain days
Crowds & Cost
moderate crowds
~$60/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Chaul Chnam Thmey (Khmer New Year)
- •Water Festival preparations
April Tips
- •Plan major sightseeing for very early morning or evening only
- •Budget extra for air conditioning and cold drinks
- •Embrace the Khmer New Year water fights for cooling off
All Months
November through March brings the sweet spot - dry weather and temperatures that won't melt you. Expect highs around 85°F instead of the brutal 95°F+ from April to October. December and January see the most tourists, so book accommodation early and expect higher prices. February and March offer the best balance: good weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable rates. The rainy season (May-October) isn't terrible if you don't mind afternoon downpours. Hotels drop prices by 30-40%, and the city looks greener. But some rural day trips become impossible due to flooded roads. April is hell - hot, humid, and dusty before the rains start. Locals call it the suicide month for good reason.
Phnom Penh Scores
Solo
7/10
Couples
5/10
Families
5/10
Adventure
6/10
Budget
9/10
Luxury
4/10
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