Explore Cambodia in February: Ideal Weather & Festivals

 

February is an excellent time to visit Cambodia, offering a sweet spot of dry, sunny weather before the intense heat of the later months arrives. Across the country, from the temples of Angkor to the southern beaches, you'll find pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it perfect for exploration. This guide provides an overview of Cambodia's weather in February, regional temperature variations, humidity levels, and what to expect during your travels. We'll also highlight popular destinations like Siem Reap and Sihanoukville, along with exciting festivals, such as Meak Bochea Day, that you might experience during your trip. Whether you're planning to explore ancient ruins or relax on pristine beaches, this guide will help you craft the perfect Cambodia itinerary for a week-long adventure.

 

Cambodia Climate in February

February falls squarely within Cambodia's dry season, providing travelers with ideal weather conditions. Expect warm, sunny days and minimal rainfall, making it perfect for exploring both the ancient temples and stunning coastlines. Average temperatures across Cambodia in February range from 21°C (70°F) to 32°C (90°F), with an average of 10 hours of sunshine per day — offering ample opportunity for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Regional Variations:

• Siem Reap (Angkor Wat): Siem Reap experiences hot and dry conditions in February. Daytime highs average around 33°C (91°F), while nighttime lows dip to a pleasant 21°C (70°F). This is considered one of the best times to visit Angkor Wat, as the dry weather makes exploring the vast temple complex more comfortable.
• Phnom Penh & Battambang: The capital city, Phnom Penh, and the charming town of Battambang also enjoy hot and dry weather, with temperatures similar to Siem Reap. Expect minimal rainfall and plenty of sunshine. This is a great time to take a river cruise from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, as the water levels on the Tonle Sap River are suitable.
• Southern Coast (Sihanoukville, Koh Rong): Coastal destinations like Sihanoukville and the islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem enjoy mild, dry, and sunny weather. Temperatures typically hover between 20°C (68°F) and 28°C (82°F), creating ideal conditions for beach relaxation, swimming, and water sports.

Humidity and “Mango Rains”:

While February is generally dry, it's worth noting that humidity levels are at their lowest during this month, averaging around 71%. Towards the end of February, you might experience brief overnight showers, known as "mango rains." These short bursts of rain are typically not disruptive to travel plans and are linked to the mango harvest season.

Mago Rain Season in Cambodia

What to Expect Towards Late February:

As the month progresses, temperatures gradually begin to climb, signaling the start of the hot season. While still pleasant, you’ll notice the days becoming warmer, especially towards the latter half of February.

Top Destinations to Explore in Cambodia in February

February is the perfect time to explore Cambodia’s iconic destinations:

• Siem Reap & Angkor Wat: With minimal rainfall and average highs around 32°C (90°F), February offers superb conditions for exploring the magnificent Angkor Temples Complex. A guided tour of the temples or a visit to the Angkor National Museum provides further insights into Khmer history and art.

• Mondulkiri & Ratanakiri (Northeast Cambodia): These provinces offer stunning natural beauty, with lush jungles, rolling hills, and majestic waterfalls. Trek through the jungles or visit ethical elephant sanctuaries for a unique experience.

• Sihanoukville & the Southern Islands (Koh Rong & Koh Rong Sanloem): February is perfect for visiting tropical beaches with pristine white sand, crystal-clear waters, and excellent conditions for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.

Travel Tips:

While February offers fantastic weather, it’s also part of the peak tourist season. Booking accommodations and tours in advance is highly recommended. Remember to stay hydrated, apply sunscreen regularly, and seek shade during the hottest parts of the day, especially when exploring outdoor sites.

February Events in Cambodia

Cambodia in February is not just about great weather but also offers vibrant cultural celebrations:

Meak Bochea Day – Monks’ Festival

Meak Bochea Day is a significant Buddhist holiday in Cambodia, commemorating a pivotal moment in the Buddha’s teachings. It occurs on the full moon of the third lunar month, typically in late February or early March. The event marks the gathering of 1,250 enlightened disciples who heard the Buddha's sermon at Veluvana Monastery. On this day, devout Buddhists visit temples for prayers, offerings, and chants. The ceremony at Oudong Mountain near Phnom Penh is particularly impressive, drawing thousands of attendees.

Lunar New Year (Chinese New Year)

Though not an official public holiday, the Lunar New Year is widely celebrated, especially by the Chinese and Vietnamese communities. This vibrant festival includes dragon and lion dances, prayers, firecrackers, and family gatherings, with the celebrations concentrated in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

Siem Reap Giant Puppet Parade

The Siem Reap Giant Puppet Parade, held on the last Saturday of February, is a lively community arts event featuring giant puppets created by children from local NGOs. These creative and colorful puppets often depict Khmer folklore or themes like education and environmental awareness. The parade is accompanied by performances and is a fantastic cultural experience for families.

Conclusion

February in Cambodia offers a unique chance to explore the country’s natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rich history. From ancient temples to sun-kissed beaches and vibrant cultural events, February reveals a perfect blend of tranquility and vibrant local life.

We hope the information provided about Cambodia in February helps you plan your upcoming trip. Our local travel experts are always ready to assist you in customizing a tour, ensuring you don't miss any exciting experiences. Feel free to leave a comment below or reach out to World Mate Travel using the contact information below:

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