July is early in Cambodia’s wet season, yet as a tropical country, temperatures stay warm. This is a great time to come if you want to avoid crowds of tourists and don’t mind a bit of rain. As well as having some lesser-known temples virtually to yourself, you’ll also be treated to vibrant landscapes and an array of fresh food—ideal for foodies. Find out where to go and what to do in Cambodia in July.
Cambodia in July: A Comprehensive Guide
The Kingdom of Cambodia, a land of ancient temples and vibrant culture, offers a unique travel experience in July. While it falls within the wet season, this period, often referred to as the “green season,” presents distinct advantages for intrepid travelers. Understanding the weather patterns, crowd levels, and available activities will ensure a memorable journey.
Weather in Cambodia during July
Cambodia experiences a wet season from June to October, making July an early-stage month of this period. While October typically claims the title of the wettest month, it’s prudent to anticipate daily rainfall in July, especially during the afternoons. However, the early part of the wet season is often welcomed by rural communities, as the rains revitalize the landscape, preventing the conditions from becoming overly waterlogged and muddy, a state that can occur later in the season. The arrival of rain transforms the environment, earning it the moniker “green season” as the vegetation flourishes and a wide variety of fresh produce becomes readily available.
In addition to the rain, temperatures tend to be slightly cooler in July compared to the rest of the year. In Phnom Penh, the capital city, the average temperature in July hovers around 82°F (28°C). However, it’s essential to remember that humidity levels are high, potentially intensifying the perceived heat. For those seeking respite from the humidity, venturing to higher altitudes in the mountains offers a welcome decrease in temperature.
Crowds and Costs During the Low Season
The wet season generally translates to the low season for tourism in Cambodia. However, this doesn’t mean that July is an undesirable time to visit. On the contrary, it offers several benefits, the most notable being smaller crowds at popular attractions. This is especially noticeable in the awe-inspiring ancient city of Angkor. The “outer temples” situated around Angkor, farther from the primary tourist routes and the iconic Angkor Wat itself, might even feel virtually deserted, offering a more intimate experience of these historical wonders. It is advisable to wear waterproof shoes, as there is a high probability of encountering mud and puddles while exploring.
Travelers in July might also discover off-season discounts at select upscale hotels. While the beach resort experience might not be ideal during this month due to unfavorable weather conditions, attractive deals can often be found in Siem Reap. Cambodia is an affordable destination for many travelers, even during peak season. Although July sees lower tourist numbers overall, adventurous families, predominantly from Europe and North America, often take advantage of the summer school break for travel.
Exploring Cambodia: Where to Go
If you’re prepared for the possibility of rain and prefer to avoid large crowds, July presents an excellent opportunity to explore Angkor Wat and its surrounding temple complexes. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Angkor Wat welcomes visitors year-round. However, moving beyond the central Angkor Wat temple reveals a world of less-frequented temples, particularly during the off-season. Angkor, an ancient city, is believed to have once spanned an area comparable to modern-day Los Angeles. This vastness means that temples and other archaeological sites are scattered across a considerable area.
Some notable examples include Bayon Temple, famous for its imposing faces carved into stone; Ta Prohm, known for the intertwined tree roots that envelop its structures; and Banteay Srei, admired for its delicate pink sandstone carvings that depict characters from the Hindu epic Ramayana. Many other temples within the ancient city remain relatively unknown, offering opportunities for discovery beyond the well-trodden tourist trails. Venturing off the main circuit will likely lead to the discovery of a site that resonates with personal interests.
Activities and Experiences: What to Do in Cambodia
Beyond the allure of sightseeing around Angkor, July is a fantastic month for culinary enthusiasts visiting Cambodia. The early wet season, also known as the green season, brings an abundance of fresh food and vegetables. A diverse array of fruits, including durian, rambutan, jackfruit, mangosteens, and dragon fruit, become readily available, offering unique tastes that may not be common in other parts of the world.
Maximize the experience by exploring local ingredients through visits to restaurants that serve authentic Cambodian cuisine and shopping at local markets. Deepen your understanding of Cambodian cuisine by participating in guided or structured food tours. Consider taking a cooking class to learn the secrets of preparing traditional dishes, explore markets for fresh produce, sample street food, and savor home-cooked meals and fine dining experiences.
Suggested Itineraries for Cambodia in July
Consider these itineraries to enhance your Cambodian experience:
Siem Reap: Angkor Culture & Cuisine – 5 Days: Immerse yourself in a different aspect of Cambodia, exploring the captivating culture and cuisine of the country on this relaxed 5-day journey that encompasses the colonial city of Siem Reap and the ancient ruins of Angkor.
Explore the Temples of Angkor Wat – 6 Days: Embark on an in-depth exploration of the temples of Angkor, including the iconic Angkor Wat. Enjoy sunrise visits and comprehensive tours of the Angkor Wat complex, as well as visits to other notable temples in the area, such as Bayon, Ta Prohm, Preah Khan, Banteay Srei, and the ancient city of Angkor Thom, along with the temples of the Grand Circuit.
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