With the end of the wet season and the beginning of the cooler dry season, tourists flock back to Cambodia in November. As well as highlights like Angkor Wat, Tonle Sap, and the islands off the southwest coast, visitors in November can enjoy the festivities of the Cambodian Water Festival, Bonn Om Touk. Read on to find out more.
November in Cambodia: A Traveler’s Guide
Cambodia beckons in November with a refreshing change after the heavy rains of September and October. The arrival of November signals the welcome start of the cooler, drier season. However, it’s important to remember that Cambodia is a tropical country, so the weather remains pleasantly warm and inviting. In the bustling capital city of Phnom Penh, the average temperature in November hovers around a comfortable 81°F (27°C). While November is considered the beginning of the dry season, visitors should still anticipate some rainfall, particularly at the start of the month. But rest assured, the amount of rain is significantly less compared to the preceding months, making it an ideal time to explore.
Crowds and Costs: Planning Your Trip
Many travelers tend to avoid Cambodia during the wet season, but as November arrives, the skies clear, creating perfect conditions for exploration and adventure. November marks the beginning of the peak tourist season in Cambodia, although it’s worth noting that it’s generally less crowded than the busier months of December and beyond. To ensure a smooth and stress-free trip, it’s highly recommended to book your accommodation and flights well in advance whenever possible. While finding substantial deals might be challenging during this time, remember that Cambodia remains an affordable destination for most travelers, regardless of their budget. You can tailor your experience to fit your financial preferences without compromising on the richness of your journey.
If your travel plans coincide with the Cambodian Water Festival this month, be prepared for the vibrant atmosphere and large crowds that descend upon Phnom Penh and Siem Reap for over three days. It’s advisable to schedule your travel plans accordingly to fully enjoy the festivities or, if you prefer a quieter experience, to avoid these locations during the festival period.
Must-See Destinations: Where to Go
A journey to Cambodia would be incomplete without dedicating at least a day, or ideally three, to exploring the awe-inspiring ancient city of Angkor, located near Siem Reap. Despite the presence of tourists, November presents an excellent opportunity to tour the magnificent temples. The weather is typically clear, although occasional showers are possible, and the conditions are ideal for leisurely strolls or invigorating bike rides around the vast complex. You’ll have ample opportunities to capture stunning photographs and immerse yourself in the breathtaking sunrise or sunset views over these historical wonders.
Furthermore, Phnom Penh truly shines in November, particularly during the Cambodian Water Festival (Bonn Om Touk). This vibrant celebration commemorates the unique reversal of the Tonlé Sap River into the Mekong River, both of which flow through Phnom Penh. Towns and villages from all over the country construct elaborate boats, capable of carrying numerous participants, and send them to the capital for thrilling races. Large crowds gather along the waterfront, eager to witness the boat races, colorful parades, and dazzling fireworks displays that illuminate the city. The energy and excitement during this festival are truly captivating.
Experiences and Activities: What to Do
Beyond the essential sightseeing at Angkor, consider renting a bicycle to navigate between the various temples and archaeological sites within the ancient city. The cooler temperatures and clear skies of November make exploring by bicycle a comfortable and enjoyable experience, especially after the rainy season. It’s a great way to cover more ground and discover hidden gems at your own pace.
For avid cyclists seeking to explore more of the country on two wheels, consider joining guided bike tours of the Cambodian countryside. While Cambodia boasts some mountainous regions, much of the terrain is relatively flat, making it suitable for long-distance biking adventures. Touring by bike offers an exceptional opportunity to explore off-the-beaten-path rural communities and lesser-known temples and sites, far removed from the bustling crowds of Angkor Wat. Some tours even venture across the border into neighboring Thailand, Laos, or Vietnam, providing a truly immersive Southeast Asian experience.
November Events: Festivals and Holidays
Bonn Om Touk (Cambodian Water Festival), Phnom Penh: This significant festival takes place in early November, spanning three days of vibrant celebrations, including captivating concerts and thrilling boat races in Phnom Penh. It is also traditionally celebrated in Siem Reap, although the festivities there are generally smaller in scale compared to the capital.
Independence Day, nationwide: Celebrated on November 9th, this holiday commemorates Cambodia’s independence from France in 1953. As a public holiday, expect some business closures as locals celebrate this important day in their nation’s history.
Exploring Cambodia: Sample Itineraries
Bike Journey Through Cambodia – 12 Days: Embark on an unforgettable cycling adventure through Cambodia, following a pilgrimage route from Angkor to the Siem Reap Province. By venturing off the well-trodden paths, this challenge offers a truly unique way to experience Cambodia’s hidden temples and unknown sites.
Culture & Nature in Cambodia and Vietnam – 13 Days: This journey through Indochina will lead you into the ancient Khmer city of Angkor, take you on an enchanting trip to the authentic floating villages on Tonlé Sap Lake, and allow you to explore the world-renowned Halong Bay. Begin your adventure in historical Siem Reap in Cambodia and continue your exploration into Vietnam. This immersive itinerary combines cultural immersion with natural wonders, offering a well-rounded experience of the region.
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