Phnom Penh, the biggest city in Cambodia and also its wealthiest, is the cultural, commercial and political centre of the country and is home to more than one million of Cambodia's population of over 14 million. Covering an area of 345sqk Phnom Penh is located in the south-central region of Cambodia, at the confluence of the Tonle Sap, Mekong and Bassac rivers. The city offers extensive cultural and historical attractions, including temples, museums, the Royal Palace and also has accommodation from simple guesthouses to five-star hotels. Phnom Penh also features good dining facilities as well as a vibrant and varied nightlife.
lightbulb_outline Highlights:
- Phom Penh is a city full of attractions and memorable places to visit. The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda are magnificent while the National Museum of Arts houses a priceless collection of artifacts and historical items in a country where history was all but effaced, making them even more valuable as links to the past. Speaking of which, in the midst of all this colourful splendor, grim reminders of the past are waiting to be visited for those with a wish to learn from it.
wb_sunny Weather:
- March and April are the hottest months in Phnom Penh, when temperatures can rise as high as 40°C. It can get very sticky in the following months of May and June when the temperature remains high and added moisture brings in higher humidity levels. Though the southwest monsoon months bring rain, it's still possible to enjoy visiting Phnom Penh since the showers tend to be intense yet brief.
- November to January: cooler temperatures in Phnom Penh, ranging from 21 to 32°C (70 to 90°F)
- February to May: temperatures soar to 40°C (104°F) and humidity is high
- May to September: the rainy season arrives with intense afternoon showers; temperatures are still high
- October to November: the rain continues, but temperatures start to ease off to between 23°C (73°F) to 30°C (86°F)
star_border Best time to visit:
Phnom Penh is a city that enjoys warm tropical weather throughout the year. Typical for Cambodia, there are two seasons, a dry season from December through April when the northeast monsoon winds keep the days sunny and dry. From May to November the southwest monsoon rolls in, bringing with it wet weather and higher levels of humidity.
December and January is the best time to visit Phnom Penh, when you'll enjoy dry, cooler weather. There will, however, be more tourist crowds and higher peak-season pricing during these months to contend with.