
Siem Reap in October
Good time to visit
The golden shoulder season begins as rains retreat and temperatures moderate. Water Festival brings local energy while tourist crowds remain light - excellent timing for those seeking authenticity.
Weather
October signals the blessed transition to dry season. Temperatures drop to a more manageable 31°C while rain becomes intermittent rather than daily. Humidity finally starts decreasing and skies begin clearing for longer stretches.
31°C high23°C low10 rain days
Crowds & Cost
moderate crowds
~$62/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Water Festival (Bon Om Touk)
- •End of Buddhist Lent celebrations
October Tips
- •Weather becomes pleasant but crowds haven't returned yet
- •Water Festival creates local accommodation shortages
- •Great month for photography with clearing skies
All Months
November through March delivers the sweet spot — dry, sunny, and relatively cool. Temperatures hover around 75-85°F instead of the brutal 95°F+ you'll get in hot season. This is peak tourist time, so book accommodations early and expect crowds at major temples.
December and January see the biggest crowds and highest prices. But the weather stays perfect and you'll have clear skies for those sunrise temple shots everyone's chasing.
April and May turn brutal. Temperatures hit 100°F+ and humidity makes it feel even worse. Some travelers love the empty temples and rock-bottom hotel rates, but temple climbing becomes genuinely uncomfortable.
June through October brings monsoon rains. Not constant downpours — more like intense afternoon storms that clear quickly. The countryside turns lush green, waterfalls flow at their strongest, and you'll have temples mostly to yourself. Just pack rain gear and flexible plans.
Rainy season has one major upside: Tonle Sap Lake fills up and floating villages become accessible. Plus hotel rates drop by 50% or more.
Siem Reap Scores
Solo
9/10
Couples
7/10
Families
8/10
Adventure
8/10
Budget
9/10
Luxury
7/10
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