June is the start of the wet season in Cambodia, and while not many tourists visit at this time, there are distinct advantages to doing so. The early wet season is also known as the green season when vegetation and crops come back to life after many months of minimal rain, so the countryside is lush and vibrant. Plus, it doesn't rain all day, every day. Read on to learn more about traveling to Cambodia in June.

Weather

Cambodia's wet season usually runs from June to October. Early in the season, rural locals welcome the arrival of rain, and conditions aren't as waterlogged and muddy as they may become later in the season. Temperatures are also a bit cooler than in April and May when they hit their peak. The average June temperature in the capital, Phnom Penh, is 84°F (29°C). Rainfall is relatively high, but you shouldn't expect constant rain. Instead, heavy bursts of rain usually come in the afternoons, cooling everything down.

Crowds & Costs

The wet season is the low season for traveling to Cambodia, but that doesn't mean it's a bad time to make travel plans. You'll find fewer tourists at the most popular sites—namely, the ancient city of Angkor—and off-season specials at some more upmarket hotels. (Keep in mind that Cambodia is generally an affordable destination for travelers). If you carry an umbrella and accept that you might get caught in a rainstorm, you can still see and do a lot in Cambodia in June.

Where to Go

With June rains come the possibility of visiting Cambodia's floating villages. Homes and shops on high stilts can be found along the Mekong and Tonlé Sap Rivers and around Lake Tonlé Sap. As a tourist, you can take a cruise on a covered boat and then hop into a smaller paddle boat or canoe to get an up-close look at villages and floating markets. (Kayak tours are also on offer, but you might want to avoid being directly out in the rain!) Ondong Rossey and Kompong Luong are great villages to stop en route between Phnom Penh and Battambang

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What to Do

General sightseeing, or itineraries that include a mixture of indoor and outdoor activities, are a safe option for traveling to Cambodia in June. If you're prepared for a bit of rain, spend at least one day (preferably two or three) around the ancient city of Angkor, near Siem Reap, which is understandably one of Cambodia's highlights. Opt for a tour that gets you around in a covered vehicle rather than a cycle tour.

In June, it's also worth spending time in Phnom Penh. You can enjoy a number of indoor activities if the weather's wet, including the Royal Palace, the National Museum, shopping at the Central Market, and dining in excellent restaurants. When the weather's fine, stroll along the waterfront and take in the views.

Events in June

King's Mother's Birthdaynationwide. The mother of the king, Queen Mother Norodom Monineath, celebrates her birthday on June 18, and Cambodia celebrates with her. This is a public holiday in Cambodia so expect business closures.

Traveling to Cambodia in June? Check out these great itineraries

Enchanting Cambodia: Phnom Penh, Battambang & Siem Reap - 8 Days. Begin in Phnom Penh, the capital once known as the Pearl of Asia. Next, travel to the sleepy heritage city of Battambang before rounding off your trip with a visit to Siem Reap—the gateway to Angkor Wat. 

Adventures in Angkor: 4 Days. Discover the ancient ruins and delights of Angkor, just outside the bustling modern city of Siem Reap, on this 4-day trip to northern Cambodia. You'll hike and bike around Angkor's sacred sites, experience the nightlife of Siem Reap, and learn to cook and farm the Khmer way.

More Helpful Information

Cambodia in May
Cambodia in July
Cambodia Tours & Itineraries